Employment Specialist

International Rescue Committee•Phoenix, AZ

11d•$20•Hybrid

About The Position

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: The Employment Specialist helps newly arrived refugee clients achieve self-sufficiency through employment. This role delivers job readiness services, career coaching, and employer connections while supporting clients through the application and placement process. The Specialist maintains strong relationships with local employers, coordinates with other IRC staff, and ensures compliance with donor and program requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, workforce development, or related field strongly preferred; equivalent work experience may be considered.
At least 2 years of case management, employment, job placement, or business experience in a social services setting.
Experience working with vulnerable or underserved populations strongly preferred.
Knowledge of U.S. job search process and ability to coach clients through securing employment.
Strong organizational and time-management skills; detail-oriented.
Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams).
Excellent verbal and written communication skills; public speaking/presentation skills preferred.
Proven ability to problem-solve, prioritize tasks, and meet goals independently or as part of a team.
Proficiency in English required; bilingual ability in Spanish, Dari, Swahili, Kinyarwanda, Arabic, French, or other refugee/immigrant language preferred.
Valid driver’s license, active insurance policy, and access to reliable transportation.
Must possess or be eligible for a fingerprint clearance card per Arizona state law.

Responsibilities

Conduct intake and assessment for employment-eligible clients and develop individualized employment plans.
Deliver job readiness orientations in both group and one-on-one settings, focusing on essential skills for employability.
Cultivate and maintain relationships with area employers to identify appropriate opportunities for clients.
Match clients to employment opportunities and guide them through applications, interviews, and hiring processes.
Monitor job placements, wages, and satisfaction of both clients and employers, providing post-placement support.
Assist clients with Unemployment Insurance applications and weekly claims when applicable.
Maintain accurate case notes and data entry in required systems; prepare employment vouchers and other documentation.
Participate in program meetings, trainings, and professional development activities; follow all IRC policies including safeguarding and confidentiality standards.
Perform other related duties as assigned

Benefits

10 sick days
10 US holidays
20-25 paid time off days depending on role and tenure
medical insurance starting at $163 per month
dental starting at $6.50 per month
vision starting at $5 per month
FSA for healthcare and commuter costs
a 403b retirement savings plans with immediately vested matching
disability & life insurance
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