Job Overview:

From March 2022 – March 2023, the International Rescue Committee launched and implemented a first-of-its-kind service model for the resettlement of 556 Afghan Humanitarian Parolees (AHPs) who arrived through Operation Allies Welcome. Via a comprehensive and personalized virtual case management model, the Virtual Afghan Placement and Assistance (VAPA) program provided per capita direct assistance, client-led case management, and resources and referrals for the successful resettlement of these new arrivals. Building off of this award-winning program, the IRC now implements the Virtual Reception & Placement (VR&P) program for Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders, the Virtual Resettlement Line for humanitarian parolees, and the Welcome Corps Support Line for private sponsor groups welcoming newcomers through the Welcome Corps.

Using the model developed during VAPA and further advanced for the current iteration of the VR&P program, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) aims to meet the ambitious goal of receiving and resettling up to 10,000 individuals in FY24 from the Western Hemisphere and Operation Enduring Welcome platforms.

This project will include coordinating steps overseas, partnering with a variety of stakeholders across the United States, and effectively establishing relationships in a virtual setting.

Starting June 2024, VR&P will expand its services to include support for Reception & Placement (R&P) “cash-based clients.” Like other callers, these clients will benefit from resource sharing, answers to their questions, and guidance on resettlement needs. To provide these services, the IRC is recruiting two (2) Virtual Navigators to respond to the needs, questions, and requests of clients calling or emailing the Virtual Resettlement Line.

In a timely, efficient and responsive manner, the Virtual Navigator takes calls and emails from callers to see if they may qualify for additional services through programs funded by the Office of Refugee Resettlement. They provide trauma-informed services to refugees and SIVs to support a positive resettlement experience and the achievement of client self-sufficiency. The Virtual Navigator will also be tasked with staffing the VR&P incoming calls line and route callers according to their needs.

Major Responsibilities:

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge and eligibility criteria for all programs offered by the IRC.
• Conduct eligibility screenings for callers Special Immigrant Visa holders, and refugees.
• Support client enrollment into programs for which they qualify and refer ineligible clients to community resources such as local departments of social services, shelters, food banks, crisis centers, and others as applicable.
• Staff the VR&P incoming calls line and route callers according to their needs.
• Efficiently and effectively conduct web-based research to locate local resources and referral options for clients.
• Detail each client interaction in accordance with established requirements.Input client information in database(s) and assist with tracking and reporting as needed.
• Collaborate effectively with coworkers and partner organizations. Build and maintain relationships with area service providers for the benefit of clients.
• Provide individualized support through resource sharing and referrals specific to the needs of the caller.
• Conduct referrals using a streamlined referral process established by the IRC’s Virtual Resettlement Program (VRP).
• 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 human services field required; minimum of 2 years’ experience strongly preferred.
• Experience working with refugee and/or immigrant populations strongly preferred.
• Experience in Reception & Placement strongly preferred.

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 a multi-cultural environment.
• 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.
• Knowledgeable about how to conduct efficient and effective web-based searches for client resources and referral options.
• Fluency in English and Dari and Pashto required.
• 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.