Employment Specialist

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is one of the world’s largest international humanitarian non-governmental organizations (INGO), at work in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities helping people to survive, reclaim control of their future and strengthen their communities. A force for humanity, IRC employees deliver lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity and hope to millions. If you’re a solutions-driven, passionate change-maker, come join us in positively impacting the lives of millions of people world-wide for a better future.

Job Overview/ Summary: RSS Employment Specialist assists newly arrived refugees, parolees, SIVs and other qualified immigrants to attain self-sufficiency through employment by guiding them through employment preparation, coordinating job placements, and other career advancement services. RSS Employment Specialist operates under close supervision with moderate latitude for the use of independent judgment and initiative. This position is will serve all refugee clients.

Major Responsibilities:

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct intake, assessment and provide program orientation to clients eligible for employment services. Develop comprehensive employment plans and budget strategies for each employable adult. Provide job readiness and job search coaching and connect clients with job opportunities.

• Develop and cultivate long-term relationships with area employers and staffing agencies to identify appropriate employment opportunities for clients.

• Assist clients and employers as necessary with post-placement issues and continuing employment needs.

• Monitor client job performance, wage levels, and related metrics.

• Detail each client interaction in accordance with program requirements. Input client information in the database(s) and assist with tracking and reporting as needed.

• Collaborate effectively with coworkers and partner organizations. Build and maintain relationships with area service providers for the benefit of clients.

• Teach vocational training, and collaborate with area employers on curriculum and instructions

• Use personal, insured vehicle and/or public transportation (where available) to travel and transport clients and materials as needed throughout the service delivery area.

• May train and lead the activities of support staff, volunteers, and interns.

• Other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field of study preferred.

Work Experience:

• Relevant professional experience in the workforce development field required; minimum of 2 years’ experience strongly preferred.

• Experience working with refugee and/or immigrant populations is strongly preferred.

• Experience with job placement and job readiness training is a plus.

Demonstrated Skills & Competencies:

• Strong relationship building, diplomacy, and networking skills; ability to effectively build internal and external relationships.

• Demonstrated success working and communicating effectively in a multi-cultural environment.

• Self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills combined with the proven ability to multi-task, prioritize duties, and manage time effectively.

• Attention to detail and accuracy in work product.

• Proficient in English, both spoken and written; proficiency in language(s) spoken by client group is desired (Spanish, Arabic, or Rohingya).

• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook); ability to use the internet and other digital tools for data entry, research, and problem-solving purposes.

• Valid driver’s license and access to a personal, insured vehicle.

Working Environment:

• A combination of standard office environment, remote work, and ‘field’ time within the service delivery area to perform the above outlined responsibilities.

• May require occasional weekend and/or evening work.

Compensation:

Posted pay ranges apply to US-based candidates. Ranges are based on various factors including the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget. Exact offers are calibrated by work location, individual candidate experience and skills relative to the defined job requirements.

US Benefits:

The IRC offers a comprehensive and highly competitive set of benefits. All US employees are eligible for sick time, a 403b retirement savings plans: up to 4.5% immediately vested matching contribution, plus an 3-7% additional IRC contribution, and an Employee Assistance Program which is available to our staff and their families to support in times of crisis and mental health struggles.

In addition, full-time employees are eligible for 10 US paid holidays, 20-25 paid time off days, disability & life insurance, medical, dental, and vision insurance (employee contribution starting at $135, $7, and $5 per month respectively) and FSA for healthcare, childcare, and commuter costs. Part-time employees are eligible for a proportionate amount of paid time off. These additional benefits apply to employees who work at least 6 months within a 12 month time period.

**Standard of Professional Conduct:**The IRC and the IRC workers must adhere to the values and principles outlined in the IRC Way – our Code of Conduct. These are Integrity, Service, Accountability, and Equality.

Commitment to Gender, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion: The IRC is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, respectful, and safe work environment where all persons are treated fairly, with dignity and respect. The IRC expressly prohibits and will not tolerate discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or bullying of the IRC persons in any work setting. We aim to increase the representation of women, people that are from country and communities we serve, and people who identify as races and ethnicities that are under-represented in global power structures.