Job Overview:

The Employment Specialist is responsible for managing the provision of services to assist newly arrived refugee clients to attain self sufficiency through employment. Specifically, the Employment Specialist provides services that include employer and market development, employment search, client and employer preparation, job placement, career enhancement, job training and assessment and follow-up, and enrollment assistance with Arizona Unemployment Insurance benefits. They are also charged with maintaining accurate and timely data collection for employment services and reporting on program deliverables.

Major Responsibilities:

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Providing intake, assessment, and pre-employment/job readiness orientation to clients eligible for employment services.
• Developing comprehensive employment plans for each employable adult.
• Providing both group and one-on-one intense job readiness orientations that provide clients with the basic skills required to enhance their employability.
• Developing and cultivating long term relationships with area employers in order to identify appropriate employment opportunities for clients.
• Determining specific employment opportunities appropriate to clients and assisting clients in accessing these opportunities by guiding them through the hiring process.
• Monitoring job performance, wage level, and employer/employee satisfaction.
• Assisting clients and employers as necessary with post placement issues and continuing employment needs.
• Preparing Employment Program vouchers.
• Assisting clients with applying for Unemployment Insurance benefits and filing weekly claims.
• Ensuring timely and accurate compliance to all reporting requirements.
• Participating in all program meetings, staff development activities, and fully engaging as a member of the team.
• Complying with all policies, procedures and protocols of the agency.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Key Working Relationships:

Position Reports to: Economic Empowerment Unit Manager

Other Internal and/or external contacts:

Internal: IRC staff, interns and volunteers

External: Community partners, employers

Job Requirements:

• Undergraduate degree in related field is preferred with at least two years of related experience in case management, employment, job placement and/or business.
• Demonstrated experience with the US job search process and the ability to coach clients effectively through the nuanced process of securing employment.
• Knowledge of the Tucson job market strongly preferred.
• Excellent communication skills, with fluency in written and spoken English. Bilingual ability in one of the predominant languages of the local client base is desired.
• Proven ability to contribute both independently and as a key team member, self- starter with excellent problem solving skills combined with the proven ability to multi-task, prioritize duties, and manage time effectively.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) and strong keyboarding skills and internet usage and research skills
• Proven success achieving goals and working effectively with all levels of staff in a multicultural environment.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle with current insurance, and the ability to travel regularly throughout the service delivery area.
• Must have or be eligible to receive a Fingerprint Clearance Card.

Working Environment:

• Standard office work environment, coupled with travel in and around the service delivery area.
• Work outside of traditional office hours may be required on occasion.

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: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

US Benefits: The IRC offers a comprehensive and highly competitive set of benefits. All US employees are eligible for sick time, a 403b retirement savings plans: up to 4.5% immediately vested matching contribution, plus an 3-7% additional IRC contribution, and an Employee Assistance Program which is available to our staff and their families to support in times of crisis and mental health struggles.

In addition, full-time employees are eligible for 10 US paid holidays, 20-25 paid time off days, disability & life insurance, medical, dental, and vision insurance (employee contribution starting at $135, $7, and $5 per month respectively) and FSA for healthcare, childcare, and commuter costs. Part-time employees are eligible for a proportionate amount of paid time off. These additional benefits apply to employees who work at least 6 months within a 12-month time period.