Caseworker

The Caseworker provides assistance to refugees and other qualified immigrants to ensure the best possible resettlement experience and the achievement of client self-sufficiency.The Caseworker develops resettlement and/or self-sufficiency plans to match individual client needs and preferences utilizing a broad range of financial, medical, social, vocational, and other services and resources based on client eligibility. The Caseworker operates under close supervision with moderate latitude for the use of independent judgment and initiative.

Major Responsibilities:

•Ensure the best possible resettlement experience for each client, from pre-arrival preparations and point of entry to successful acculturation. This may include assurance that appropriate pre-arrival services are in place (locating and securing suitable housing, purchasing housing essentials, furniture and basic food supplies, setting up utilities etc.);

•Provide individualized and group orientations and support clients through social service referrals, medical access and advocacy services by assessing and evaluating each client’s distinct needs;

•Independently develop reasonable resettlement and/or self-sufficiency plans and timelines for each client and managing client expectations;

•Support client with direct assistance distribution and tracking;

•Ensure that clients are provided the basic tools necessary to meet their established short-term goals and objectives;

•Assess and monitor client progress at regular intervals to ensure progress on goals is made, designated resources are maximized and modify initial resettlement plans and other case file documents as required;

•Ensure compliance with case file management and reporting requirements, including timely data entry in hard-copy files and databases;

•Travel regularly throughout the service delivery area (home visits, agency visits, service provider visits etc.);

•Participate in all program meetings, staff development activities and fully engages as a member of the team;

•Other related duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:

•Undergraduate degree, ideally in Social Work or an equivalent field of study.Comparable related work experience may be substituted;

•Demonstrated relevant work experience (in addition to the above) in human services field, preferably in a non-profit or social services agency environment.Experience should include a minimum of two years providing direct service to underserved communities. Prior experience working with refugee populations preferred;

•Demonstrated success working and communicating effectively in a multi-cultural environment;

•Proven ability to contribute both independently and as a key team member;

•Self-starter with excellent problem solving skills combined with the proven ability to multi-task, prioritize duties, and manage time effectively;

•Proficient in Microsoft Office;

•Strong organizational skills with the ability to juggle multiple tasks, set priorities, effectively manage time, meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment;

•Excellent communications skills, with fluency in written and spoken English;

•Highly motivated with an ability to work independently, develop new classes and programming, and be a self-starter, maintaining responsibility for multiple tasks;

•Bi-lingual candidates preferred;

•Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle with current insurance, and the ability to travel regularly throughout the service delivery area.

Working Environment:

•Standard office work environment coupled with regular travel in and around the service delivery area.

•Reoccurring need to provide services outside of traditional work hours (evenings and weekends).

IRC- leading the way from harm to home

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