Employment Partnerships Specialist

Job Overview:

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. At work in over 40 countries and 30 U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home. The IRC New York’s Economic Empowerment Department provides employment and career assistance to approximately 500 refugees, asylees and other immigrants each year. Through a variety of services including Early Employment, Career Development, Food and Agriculture, and Financial Capabilities programs, the IRC supports refugee, asylee and immigrant clients to gain employment and career advancement opportunities in the New York City area.

Under the supervision of the Early Employment Coordinator, the Employment Partnerships Specialist builds, maintains and strengthens partnerships with employers, vocational training institutions and community organizations in order to ensure high quality and quantity of job placements and education access for our clients.

Major Responsibilities:

• Conduct outreach to employment, training and social services partners, on behalf of the IRC to present our services, programs and clients.
• Build, maintain and strengthen relationships with new and existing employers NYC-based employers in a wide range of industries, such as manufacturing, food services, healthcare, hospitality, among others.
• Create and sustain a direct, clear and regular line of communication with all partners.
• Develop presentation materials and facilitate workshops and information sessions both virtually and in person.
• Partner with workforce development boards and organize job fairs.
• Partner with IRC employment specialists to ensure that our clients are best matched with roles and companies.
• Become a subject matter expert in the roles, industries and companies that our employment and training programs focus on.
• Participate in IRC network-wide initiatives to understand and share best-practices to enhance employment and training programming.
• Monitor industry data and trends.
• Participate in program meetings, staff development activities, and other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:

Work Experience:

• At least two years of related professional experience in workforce development
• Experience in a non-profit setting and prior experience working in employment services a plus
• Experience working in a culturally diverse setting with diverse client base
• Knowledge of career pathways and industry certification requirements a plus

Demonstrated Skills and Competencies:

• Self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills combined with the proven ability to multi-task, prioritize duties, and manage time effectively.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and an overall ability to be clear and concise in all communications
• Exceptional organizational skills with proven attention to detail.
• Demonstrated success working and communicating effectively in a multi-cultural environment.

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

• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook)

• Ability to travel regularly throughout New York City

Language Skills: 

• Fluent in English, both spoken and written; bilingual ability preferred, preferably in Russian, Ukrainian, Spanish, French, Arabic, Dari/Farsi and/or Pashto.

Preferred experience & skills:

• Ability to work both independently and in a dynamic, cross-functional team structure
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with stakeholders at all levels
• Ability to manage and work through change in a proactive and positive manner.

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Working Environment:  Standard office work environment, along with some field work, including local travel to employers, client homes and other community-based partners.

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement: In accordance with IRC’s duty to provide and maintain a workplace that is free of known hazards and our commitment to safeguard the health of our employees, clients, and communities, IRC requires new hires to furnish proof of vaccination against COVID-19 in order to be considered for any in-office or hybrid positions.  All IRC US offices require full vaccination to attend any in-office functions (e.g., meetings, trainings).

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusivity: IRC is committed to building a diverse organization and a climate of inclusivity.  We strongly encourage applications from candidates who can demonstrate that they can contribute to this goal. 

Equal Opportunity Employer: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

US Benefits: We offer a comprehensive and highly competitive set of benefits.  In the US, these include: 10 sick days, 10 US holidays, 20-25 paid time off days depending on role and tenure, medical insurance starting at $120 per month, dental starting at $7 per month, and vision starting at $5 per month, FSA for healthcare and commuter costs, a 403b retirement savings plans with immediately vested matching, disability & life insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program which is available to our staff and their families to support counseling and care in times of crisis and mental health struggles. 

Posted pay ranges apply to US-based candidates. Ranges are based on various factors including the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget.  Exact offers are calibrated by work location, individual candidate experience and skills relative to the defined job requirements.

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