Career Development 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, the IRC operates in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, providing lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity, and hope to millions of people.

The IRC in San Diego’s Connect2

Work Program empowers opportunity youth ages 16–24 to achieve economic mobility through education, career exploration, work‑based learning, occupational skills training, and employment services. The program utilizes a trauma‑informed, culturally responsive, and strengths‑based approach that integrates all 14 WIOA Youth Program Elements into individualized career pathways.

• Career Coaching & Case Management
  • Conduct outreach, eligibility screening, intake, and enrollment.
  • Complete assessments and develop Individual Service Strategies (ISS).
  • Provide ongoing career coaching, case management, and goal monitoring.
  • Coordinate referrals and supportive services to address barriers to participation.
  • Maintain regular contact with participants to promote engagement and successful outcomes.
• Employment & Career Development
  • Deliver one‑on‑one and group instruction in work readiness, career exploration, job search, resume development, interviewing, and professional skills.
  • Assist participants in identifying and securing employment, internships, apprenticeships, and other work‑based learning opportunities.
  • Provide post‑placement coaching to support job retention and career advancement.
• Education & Training Navigation
  • Support enrollment and persistence in secondary school completion, postsecondary education, occupational training, and credential programs.
  • Monitor participant progress and coordinate resources that promote educational success.
• Employer & Community Engagement
  • Build partnerships with employers, training providers, schools, and community organizations to expand career opportunities for youth.
  • Coordinate work‑based learning experiences, hiring events, and employer engagement activities.
• Program Administration & Compliance
  • Maintain accurate case files and document participant services, outcomes, and activities in required databases.
  • Track performance metrics and ensure compliance with WIOA, funder, and IRC requirements.
  • Participate in program planning, outreach, continuous quality improvement, and other duties as assigned.

• Education
  :
  Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field of study preferred.
• Work Experience
  :
  Minimum three years in human services; experience with refugee and/or immigrant populations required.
• Skills & Competencies
  • Strong relationship‑building, diplomacy, and networking skills.
  • Excellent communication and problem‑solving abilities in a multicultural environment.
  • Self‑starter with the ability to multitask, prioritize duties, and manage time efficiently.
  • Attention to detail and accuracy in work product.
  • Fluent in English, with proficiency in languages spoken by local refugee and immigrant populations strongly preferred.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and digital tools for data entry, research, and problem solving.
• Valid driver’s license and access to a personal, insured vehicle; ability to drive an IRC passenger van.

Standard professional office environment with a hybrid mode of remote work within San Diego County. Required in‑office days and some field time at IRC’s El Cajon and City Heights offices, with occasional travel throughout San Diego County. Office hours are Monday‑Friday, 8:30am‑4:30pm, with occasional evening and weekend work. The position is scheduled to conclude on July6,2027.

Pay Range: $23.00–$26.80 per hour (US‑based candidates only). Ranges are based on labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget. Exact offers are calibrated by location, candidate experience, and skills relative to the job requirements.

All IRC workers must adhere to core values and principles outlined in IRC Way – Standards for Professional Conduct. Once hired, staff will be expected to…