Operations Intern; Unpaid

Front Desk Volunteer

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.

The Front Desk Volunteer will provide coverage for the reception desk, greet and direct client walk-ins, and schedule client appointments with appropriate staff. The role will answer the IRC in New York or New Jersey's main telephone line, direct incoming calls as appropriate and assess documentation of clients to determine program eligibility. The Front Desk Volunteer will provide additional clerical assistance and support to IRC staff in the New York or New Jersey regional office.

• Perform reception duties such as greeting visitors to the office and connecting them to appropriate staff
• Assess documentation of visitors to determine eligibility of services
• Schedule appointments for all programs depending on eligibility of client
• Answer and direct incoming phone calls
• Assist staff with clerical and administrative duties
• Display sensitivity to cultural and personality differences of refugee clients. Respect their beliefs and values.
• Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy.
• Communicate effectively in person and by telephone.
• Other related duties as assigned.

• Understand scope of IRC services and programs available for a variety of immigrant and refugee groups in New York City.
• Improve communication and customer service skills in a linguistic and cultural environment.
• Learn about refugee resettlement issues and processes.

• Previous administrative experience preferred
• Strong computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Cultural sensitivity and detail oriented with the proven ability to meet deadlines
• Ability to effectively communicate and work as a team member in a cross-cultural environment
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English; additional fluency in Arabic, Spanish, Dari, Pashto, French, Ukrainian, Russian, or Kiswahili preferred.
• Willing to learn about IRC history, philosophy, global work, and local efforts.
• Willing to adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies.

This position reports to the Operations Manager.

All International Rescue Committee workers must adhere to the core values and principles outlined in IRC Way - Standards for Professional Conduct. Our Standards are Integrity, Service, Equality and Accountability. In accordance with these values, the IRC operates and enforces policies on Safeguarding, Conflicts of Interest, Fiscal Integrity, and Reporting Wrongdoing and Protection from Retaliation. IRC is committed to take all necessary preventive measures and create an environment where people feel safe, and to take all necessary actions and corrective measures when harm occurs.

IRC builds teams of professionals who promote critical reflection, power sharing, debate, and objectivity to deliver the best possible services to our clients.

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.