Employment Specialist

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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), working in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities to help people 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.

The Employment Specialist is responsible for effectively administering services aimed at attaining self‑sufficiency through employment for refugees and immigrants. Under the supervision of the Economic Wellbeing Manager, the Employment Specialist provides employment services to program participants and works closely with employers, community organizations, service providers, and other IRC staff to facilitate job readiness and job placement among program participants. The position is also responsible for documenting employment activities and outcomes and supporting program compliance.

• Provide employment‑focused case management to program participants
• Facilitate intake, assessment, and pre‑employment orientation for individuals eligible for IRC employment services
• Develop comprehensive employment and self‑sufficiency plans for each employable adult and service plans for family members
• Provide relevant referrals for other resources to clients
• Communicate effectively with DSHS Case Management staff
• Identify specific employment opportunities appropriate for individual participants and assist participants in pursuing these opportunities by guiding them through the application, interview, and hiring process
• Maintain detailed and timely case notes and documentation throughout the service period
• Monitor and document job performance, wage level, and employer/employee satisfaction post‑job placement for reporting and compliance purposes
• Complete 6‑ and 12‑month check‑ins with program participants
• Enroll clients in IRC‑provided classes and trainings

• Develop and cultivate strong relationships with area employers to identify appropriate employment opportunities for program participants
• Actively seek out new employers to become employer partners
• Provide participants and employers with post‑placement support, as needed

• Monitor and track participant job performance and wage levels as required by program funding
• Gather required documentation and data for case files throughout the service period and to support case closeout procedures
• Ensure timely and accurate compliance with all reporting requirements, including database management, case noting, and file maintenance

• Work as part of a team to provide comprehensive, strength‑based services to IRC participants through coordination of cases and effective communication between team members and departments
• Participate in all program meetings, staff development, and wellness activities
• Comply with all policies, procedures, and protocols of the agency
• Other duties as assigned

Position reports to:
Economic Wellbeing Manager

Internal contacts: IRC Spokane Economic Wellbeing team, IRC Spokane Health and Wellness team, other IRC Spokane program teams

External contacts: DSHS Caseworkers, local employers, WA Office of Refugee & Immigrant Assistance (ORIA)

• Relevant degree or equivalent professional or lived experience
• Knowledge of the U.S. job search, interview, placement, and work experience
• Demonstrated success working and communicating effectively in a multi‑cultural environment
• Proven ability to contribute both independently and as a key team member
• Self‑starter with excellent…