Employment Specialist

International Rescue Committee; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking organization is seeking an Employment Specialist to empower newly arrived refugees and immigrants through effective employment services. This role involves guiding clients in job preparation, coordinating placements, and building relationships with local employers. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in workforce development, excellent communication skills, and a passion for helping others achieve self-sufficiency. Join a dedicated team that values diversity and inclusivity while making a meaningful impact in the community. If you are a proactive problem-solver with a commitment to service, this is the opportunity for you.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in workforce development preferred.
• Experience with refugee and immigrant populations is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist clients in job readiness and connect them with job opportunities.
• Develop relationships with employers for client job placements.

Skills

Relationship Building

Networking Skills

Problem-Solving

Multi-tasking

Attention to Detail

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work

Management or Related Field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Digital Tools for Data Entry

Job description

This job posting was opened on May 8, 2025. Please note that we will be prioritizing candidates who are current IRC (and recently employed by IRC) staff before other applicants. If necessary, we will extend the opportunity to external candidates.

Job Overview:The Employment Specialist assists newly arrived refugees and other qualified immigrants to attain self-sufficiency through employment by guiding them through employment preparation, coordinating job placements, and other career advancement services.

Major Responsibilities:

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• 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.
• 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.
• 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 social work, managenent 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 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; including Dari, Farsi, and/or Pashto.
• 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.
• 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.