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 worldwide for a better future. Job Overview The Employment Specialist assists refugees and other qualified immigrants to attain self-sufficiency through employment by guiding them through employment preparation, coordinating job placements, and other career advancement services. Note: This is a limited-term, full-time position ending September 30, 2026, with the possibility for renewal. Major Responsibilities Conduct an employability assessment and provide program orientation to clients eligible for employment services. Develop comprehensive employment and career development plans and budget strategies for each employable adult. Provide job readiness and job search coaching and connect clients with job opportunities. Provide one‑on‑one assistance to help clients prepare their resumes, search for appropriate job opportunities, and practice interview skills. Provide individual mentorship on resume writing, interview preparation, job search techniques, and other skills related to career advancement. Ensure the delivery of group coaching and instruction of advanced work readiness and other employability skills. Support clients in identifying, enrolling, and completing vocational training activities such as certification attainment, apprenticeships, and paid/unpaid work experience. Assist participants with networking and provide job application review. Accompany clients to job preparation activities, interviews, and job site tours. Coach clients, so they can attend these events independently in the future. Develop and cultivate long‑term relationships with area employers and staffing agencies to identify appropriate employment opportunities for clients. Advocate for clients’ rights in the labor market by providing references and meeting with employers to educate them about the benefits of hiring refugees, asylees, and immigrants. 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 into databases 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. 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 workforce development field required; minimum of 2 years’ experience is strongly preferred. Experience working with refugee and/or immigrant populations strongly preferred. Experience with job placement and job readiness training 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. Excellent written and oral communications skills in English; proficiency in a language spoken by client populations a plus. 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. Equal Opportunity Employer IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants on the basis of merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. US Benefits We offer a comprehensive and highly competitive set of benefits. In the US, these include: 10 sick days, 10 US holidays, 20‑25 paid time off days depending on role and tenure, medical insurance starting at $143 per month, dental starting at $6.50 per month, and vision starting at $5 per month, FSA for healthcare and commuter costs, a 403b retirement savings plan with immediately vested matching, disability & life insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program which is available to our staff and their families to support counseling and care in times of crisis and mental health struggles. 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr