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, IRC is one of the world’s largest international humanitarian non‑governmental organizations, working in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities. If you are a solutions‑driven, passionate change‑maker, join us in positively impacting millions of lives worldwide for a better future.

The Employment Specialist assists newly arrived refugees and other qualified immigrants to attain self‑sufficiency through employment by guiding them through employment preparation, coordinating job placements, and providing career advancement services.

• 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.
• Build and maintain long‑term relationships with area employers and staffing agencies to identify appropriate employment opportunities.
• 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 database(s) and assist with tracking and reporting as needed.
• Collaborate effectively with coworkers and partner organizations; build relationships with area service providers for the benefit of clients.
• Develop in‑house vocational trainings; 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 throughout the service delivery area.
• May train and lead the activities of support staff, volunteers, and interns.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field of study preferred, but not required.
• Relevant professional experience in workforce development is required; a minimum of 2 years of experience is strongly preferred.
• Experience working with refugee and/or immigrant populations is strongly preferred.
• Experience with job placement and job readiness training is a plus.

• Strong relationship‑building, diplomacy, and networking skills; ability to build internal and external relationships.
• Success working and communicating effectively in a multicultural environment.
• Self‑starter with excellent problem‑solving skills, multi‑tasking, prioritizing duties, and managing time effectively.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in work product.
• Proficient in English, both spoken and written; proficiency in language(s) spoken by the client group is desired.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook); ability to use digital tools for data entry, research, and problem‑solving.
• Valid driver’s license and access to a personal, insured vehicle.

• A combination of standard office environment, remote work, and field time within the service delivery area.
• May require occasional weekend and/or evening work.

Pay Range: $20.16 - $24.00 (U.S. based candidates). Exact offers are calibrated by work location, individual experience, and skills relative to the defined job requirements.

We offer a comprehensive and highly competitive set of benefits: 10 sick days, 10 U.S. holidays, 20-25 paid time off days depending on role and tenure; medical insurance starting at $143 per month, dental at $6.50 per month, vision at $5 per month, FSA for healthcare and commuter costs, a 403(b) retirement savings plan with immediately vested matching, disability & life insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program.

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.

All IRC workers must adhere to the core values and principles outlined in IRC Way – Standards for Professional Conduct. IRC operates and enforces policies on safeguarding, conflicts of interest, fiscal integrity, and reporting wrongdoing and protection from retaliation. IRC is committed to creating a safe environment and taking all necessary actions and corrective measures when harm occurs.