Youth Program Specialist

International Rescue Committee Phoenix; Dallas (TX); Hybrid; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading humanitarian organization seeks a Youth Program Specialist to support refugee middle school students in Dallas. This role involves outreach, client management, and facilitating workshops to promote educational success and cultural adaptation. Ideal candidates will have a background in social work or education and strong communication skills.

Benefits

Retirement plans

Sick leave

Mental health support

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent experience.
• Experience with refugee resettlement is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle required.

Responsibilities

• Support outreach, recruitment, and enrollment efforts.
• Manage a caseload of 2-5 high-needs clients.
• Facilitate workshops and orientations for students and parents.

Skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Strong communication skills

Bilingual (Dari, Pashto, Arabic, Spanish, or Swahili)

Education

Bachelor’s degree in social work, education, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Join to apply for the Youth Program Specialist role at International Rescue Committee Phoenix.

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 to help people survive, reclaim control of their future, and strengthen their communities. 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 8, 2025. Candidates who are current IRC staff or recently employed by IRC will be prioritized. External candidates may be considered if needed.

IRC Background

As part of Youth Services in the Education and Learning Department, the Refugee School Impact program supports refugee and immigrant students through tailored academic assistance, cultural orientation, and community engagement. The program helps students navigate the U.S. educational system via tutoring, mentoring, and individualized support, while guiding families in understanding school expectations and accessing resources. It also connects families with essential services and advocates for their needs within the local school system to ensure successful transition and academic achievement.

Scope of Work

The Refugee School Impact Middle School Program (RSI-MS) seeks a Youth Services Specialist to support refugee middle school students. This role acts as the primary contact for youth engagement in community activities and provides support to foster academic growth, cultural adaptation, positive identity, and social development. The specialist will work in various settings—including homes, virtual platforms, and community centers—to guide and empower students. Reporting to the Youth Program Coordinator, the specialist will assist with outreach, recruitment, enrollment, conduct workshops and orientations, manage a caseload of 2-5 high-needs clients, and coordinate community engagement and advocacy efforts with schools.

Major Responsibilities

Outreach and Engagement

• Support outreach, recruitment, and enrollment efforts with the Youth Program Coordinator and Youth Intake Specialist.
• Facilitate workshops and orientations for students and parents to promote educational success.
• Assist newly arrived families in navigating the American public-school system.
• Coordinate and facilitate student advocacy efforts with school systems.
• Organize monthly community engagement activities for youth clients.
• Build and maintain partnerships within the Dallas community.

Client Management

• Manage a caseload of 2-5 high-needs clients, providing mentoring, advocacy, and academic support through bi-weekly visits.
• Conduct assessments to establish baseline and service plans.
• Engage caregivers in the education and well-being of minor clients through case management via RSI services.
• Monitor academic progress, provide emotional support, and connect clients to resources.

Compliance Documentation

• Complete and update intake documents, assessments, and service plans.
• Maintain case notes and files, updating plans as needed.
• Document expenses related to RSI activities and assist in timely reconciliation.

Team/Office Participation

• Participate in program meetings, staff development, and assigned tasks.
• Collaborate with team members to deliver services.
• Adhere to agency policies, especially regarding client confidentiality.
• Engage in networking and learning events such as the Youth Community of Practice and annual Virtual Summit.

Key Working Relationships

Position reports to: Youth Program Coordinator

Other contacts: Education and Learning Manager, Youth Program Supervisor, HQ Youth and Education Technical Adviser

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, education, or related field preferred, or equivalent experience.
• Organized self-starter with problem-solving skills and ability to prioritize.
• Experience with refugee resettlement or refugee youth is a plus but not required.
• Strong communication skills in English; bilingual in Dari, Pashto, Arabic, Spanish, or Swahili is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and ability to travel within the service area.

Working Environment

• Office setting with regular travel for home visits and community engagements, including evenings and weekends.
• Hybrid work schedule.

Compensation

Pay ranges are based on factors like location, experience, and internal equity. Benefits include retirement plans, sick leave, and mental health support.

Equal Opportunity Employer

IRC considers all applicants based on merit without discrimination. Adherence to the IRC Way – our Code of Conduct – is expected, emphasizing integrity, service, accountability, and equality.