JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Overview: The Benefits & Employment Specialist assists newly arrived refugees and other qualified immigrants to access government assistance programs and to attain self-sufficiency through employment by guiding them through employment preparation, coordinating job placements, and other career advancement services. This is a demanding role as it is charged with navigating complex the bureaucracies of employment supports, social security, and state social services programs. The Benefits & Employment Specialist ensures that every new arrival has been enrolled in key social service and government support programs and that eligible new arrivals receive employment services to support obtaining and maintaining employment.

Major Responsibilities:

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Ensure applications are completed and submitted for each new arrival for relevant public benefits and government support programs.
• Conduct intake, assessment and provide program orientation to 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.
• Cultivate long term relationships with area employers, staffing agencies, and partner organizations 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.
• Submit timely reports to relevant stakeholders.
• Detail 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. Build and maintain relationships with area service providers for the benefit of clients.
• Use personal, insured vehicle and/or public transportation (where available) to travel and transport clients and materials as needed throughout the service delivery area.
• May train and lead the activities of support staff, volunteers, and interns.
• Other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:

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

Work Experience:

• Minimum 1 year relevant or related job experience.
• Experience working with 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 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.
• Proficient in English, both spoken and written; proficiency in language(s) spoken by client group is desired
• 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.
• Valid driver’s license and access to a personal, insured vehicle.

Level of Education: Bachelor Degree

Work Hours: 8

Experience in Months: No requirements