Employment Specialist

This job posting was opened on 3/7/25. Please note that we will be considering applications from internal employees and former IRC Staff exclusively for the first 5 days. After this period, if necessary, we will extend the opportunity to external candidates.

Job Overview: The IRC in NY is seeking a candidate to join an exciting program for asylum seekers and other recent arrivals in the New York City area. The Assistance for Migrants Program (AMP) provides comprehensive case management, legal, financial, and employment assistance to recently arrived migrants. The AMP project is funded through the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA).

The Employment Specialist assists asylum seekers and other qualified immigrants to attain self-sufficiency through employment by guiding them through employment preparation, coordinating job placements, and other career advancement services. Towards these goals, the Employment Specialist works closely with clients, colleagues, and external parties. This role will report to the Career Development Coordinator within the IRC in NY’s Economic Empowerment Department, and will regularly coordinate across departments including the Asylum Seeker Program. 

Major Responsibilities:

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct intake, assessment and provide program orientation to asylum seeker and other recently arrived 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.
• Develop and cultivate long-term relationships with area employers and staffing agencies to identify appropriate employment opportunities for clients.
• Assist clients and employers as necessary with post-placement issues and continuing employment needs.
• Monitor client job performance, wage levels, and related metrics.
• Document 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 for the benefit of clients.
• May train and lead the activities of support staff, volunteers, and interns.
• Other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field of study preferred.

Work Experience:

• Relevant professional experience in workforce development field required; minimum of 2 years’ experience strongly preferred.
• Experience working with asylum seeker, refugee and/or immigrant populations strongly preferred.
• Experience with job placement and job readiness training a plus.

Demonstrated Skills & Competencies:

• Strong relationship building, diplomacy, and networking skills; ability to effectively build internal and external relationships.
• Demonstrated success working and communicating effectively in various global environments and contexts.
• Self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills combined with the proven ability to multi-task, prioritize duties, and manage time effectively.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in work product.
• Proficient in English, both spoken and written; proficiency in language(s) spoken by client group is desired; including Spanish, French, and/or Russian.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook); ability to use the internet and other digital tools for data entry, research, and problem-solving purposes.

Working Environment: 

• A combination of standard office environment, remote work, and ‘field’ time within the service delivery area to perform the above outlined responsibilities.
• May require occasional weekend and/or evening work.

Compensation: Posted pay ranges apply to US-based candidates. Ranges are based on various factors including the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget.  Exact offers are calibrated by work location, individual candidate experience and skills relative to the defined job requirements.

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.

US Benefits: We offer a comprehensive and highly competitive set of benefits. In the US, these include: 10 sick days, 10 US holidays, 20-25 paid time off days depending on role and tenure, medical insurance starting at $143 per month, dental starting at $6.50 per month, and vision starting at $5 per month, FSA for healthcare and commuter costs, a 403b retirement savings plans with immediately vested matching, disability & life insurance, and an 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.