Employment Specialist

International Rescue Committee; Sacramento (CA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading humanitarian organization is seeking an Employment Specialist to empower newly arrived refugees in achieving financial self-sufficiency through employment. This role involves managing service provision, conducting job readiness training, and building employer relationships. The ideal candidate will have a background in social work, experience with the US job market, and strong communication skills. Join us in making a lasting impact on the lives of refugees in Sacramento.

Benefits

Paid time off

Health insurance

Retirement plans

Support programs

Qualifications

• Experience with the US job search process and client coaching.
• Ability to document data accurately and timely.

Responsibilities

• Providing intake, assessment, orientation, and pre-employment classes to clients.
• Building relationships with area employers to identify job opportunities.
• Assisting clients in accessing employment opportunities.

Skills

Bilingual

Client Coaching

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in social work

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Join to apply for the Employment Specialist role at International Rescue Committee

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is one of the world's largest international humanitarian non-governmental organizations (INGO), operating in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities. IRC employees deliver lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity, and hope to millions. If you're a solutions-driven, passionate change-maker, come join us in positively impacting lives worldwide for a better future.

This job posting was opened on May 16, 2025. We will prioritize current IRC staff and recently employed IRC staff before other applicants. External candidates may be considered if necessary.

IRC Background

Through 29 regional offices across the U.S., the IRC helps refugees resettle and become self-sufficient. Our Sacramento office has been resettling refugees for over 30 years, providing reception, placement, and supplemental programs to assist refugees from arrival onward.

Job Overview

The Employment Specialist guides, prepares, and empowers newly arrived refugees to achieve financial self-sufficiency through employment. Responsibilities include managing service provision, working collaboratively with team members, and meeting performance goals. Services include employment preparation, job readiness training, placement, career enhancement, and follow-up. The role involves maintaining employer relationships and reports to the Employment Supervisor.

Responsibilities

• Providing intake, assessment, orientation, and pre-employment classes to clients.
• Offering job counseling and case management support.
• Conducting group and individual job readiness courses.
• Identifying client assistance needs and ensuring compliance with funder guidelines.
• Developing employment plans for each employable adult.
• Maintaining accurate records of attendance, assessments, and services.
• Building relationships with area employers to identify job opportunities.
• Assisting clients in accessing employment opportunities and guiding them through hiring processes.
• Monitoring client job performance and satisfaction.
• Supporting clients and employers with post-placement issues.
• Ensuring compliance with reporting requirements and maintaining documentation.
• Maintaining referral partnerships and updating client referrals.
• Participating in team-building and organizational initiatives.
• Upholding safeguarding and IRC values.
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

• Bilingual in Ukrainian, Russian, Dari, Pashto, or Spanish preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Supervisory or mentoring experience preferred.
• Experience with the US job search process and client coaching.
• Ability to document data accurately and timely.
• Familiarity with Sacramento’s job market preferred.
• Ability to work in a team, oversee volunteers, and communicate effectively in multicultural environments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and online databases.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and willingness to travel.
• Adherence to IRC Way – Standards for Professional Conduct and related policies.

Key Working Relationships

Reports to: Employment Supervisor

Internal: IRC staff, clients, interns, volunteers

External: Employers, partners

Working Environment

• Combination of office and field work.
• Occasional weekend/evening work may be required.

Compensation

Range based on location, experience, and internal factors. Exact offers depend on individual qualifications.

Equal Opportunity Employer

IRC considers all applicants based on merit without discrimination.

US Benefits

Includes paid time off, health insurance, retirement plans, and support programs.

Standards of Conduct

Adherence to IRC Way and policies on integrity, service, equality, and accountability.