Housing and Logistics Specialist

Job Overview: The Housing and Logistics Caseworker provides assistance to newly arrived refugees to ensure the best possible initial resettlement experience and the achievement of client self-sufficiency. In coordination with the Resettlement team the Housing and Logistics Caseworker oversees the provision, procurement, and quality control of pre-arrival and post-arrival resettlement goods and services for newly arrived refugees according to established federal guidelines. The Housing and Logistics Caseworker will be responsible for locating housing for new arrivals and ensuring that IRC clients receive appropriate furnishings. The Housing and Logistics Caseworker also participates, as required, in program planning and service developments through teams, committees and work groups. The Housing and Logistics Caseworker operates under moderate supervision with latitude for the use of independent judgment and initiative. 

•Conduct apartment outreach and secure safe, appropriate, and affordable housing for refugees prior to their arrival in the US. 

•Liaise with property management organizations to ensure continuing quality services to refugees.

•Research vendors for best values for housing and household supplies.

Compliance Documentation: 

•Regularly visit apartment complexes to ensure housing meets the minimum standards as laid out in federal regulations.

•Prepare and complete pre-arrival documentation for client case files.

•Ensure accuracy and completion of leases maintained in client case files are in compliance with IRC polices.

•Complete case notes relating to all housing activities, ensuring reporting requirements are met.

•Coordinate all aspects of new arrival airport pick-ups including communicating arrival information to Case Workers, informing staff of changes, and assisting volunteers when they participate in the new arrival process.

•Request and process direct financial assistance for new arrivals.

•Organize and oversee the setup of housing for refugees, including coordinating signing of leases.

•Arrange the logistics of new arrival home set-ups, including furniture orders and delivery, planning and placing purchase orders, and establishment of utility connections and home safety inspections.  

•Coordinate with US Ties, complete assistance agreement, and maintain ongoing communication regarding arrivals.

•Work to secure household donations and assist volunteer coordinator with in-kind contributions.

•Participate in all program meetings, staff development activities, and other duties as assigned by the Casework Supervisor.

•Supervise and train a team of volunteers and interns working either directly with clients or in the office on a variety of organizational and administrative tasks.

•Work as part of a team to provide comprehensive strength-based services to IRC clients through coordination of cases and effective communication between team members and departments. 

•Provide additional R&P casework services, as needed. 

•Comply with all policies, procedures and protocols of the agency.

Position Reports to: Casework Supervisor

Position directly supervises: Volunteers and interns

Indirect Reporting: Volunteer and Donations Coordinator

Other Internal and/or external contacts: 

Internal: IRC Employees, interns, volunteers

External: Current and potential property managers and vendors.