Description

BACKGROUND:
Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee is a leading, non-sectarian non-profit organization providing emergency relief, protection, rehabilitation assistance, resettlement services, and advocacy for refugees and victims of oppression or violent conflict. Domestically, our 23 offices across the country ensure new arrivals have food, shelter, and clothing, and work with refugees to help them gain self-sufficiency through English language classes, job training and placement services, and community participation activities. The Headquarters Resettlement Department provides guidance and oversight for the domestic offices.

PURPOSE:
The Employment Assistant will assist the employment department staff in providing services to newly arriving refugees. Volunteers must be willing to learn about IRC, both worldwide and local operations, and learn about refugee clients and their cultures. Volunteers will work closely with newly arrived refugees, which will require them to be sensitive to the cultural and personality differences of clients and aware of the proper boundaries for interaction. The Employment Assistant will communicate regularly with IRC staff.

ESSENTIAL POSITION FUNCTIONS:
• Provide vocational counseling, resume preparation, job search and placement services, and financial assistance for basic needs with the goal of helping refugees find their first job in America and achieve early economic self-sufficiency.
• Train participants in vital language skills needed for securing a first job in the US, including support with job applications, answering interview questions, and building a workplace vocabulary.
• Display sensitivity to cultural and personality differences of refugee clients. Respect their beliefs and values.
• Maintain proper boundaries with clients, and refer issues regarding employment, social services, and health care to appropriate staff members
• Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy.
• Communicate effectively in person and by telephone
• Other related duties as assigned.