Workforce Development Specialist Intern

Time Commitment: 15-24 hours Weekly 

Start Date: April 1st, 2023

Duration: 3-4 Months, candidates that can do a full academic year are preferred

BACKGROUND: International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. At work in more than 40 countries and over 20 U.S. cities, the IRC provides resettlement, education and empowerment support to refugees and displaced people. 

SCOPE OF INTERN WORK: The Workforce Development Specialist intern is a volunteer position to support the Adult Education Department with career development programs. As an intern, you will support IRC students enrolled in the English Language classes to establish and reach employment and career goals they set for themselves. Under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act’s Program, the English Language classes, case management support, and career services at IRC will ensure that participants are connected to employment and career pathways. The intern will also assist in developing research that supports the building of relationships with employers and the development of employment opportunities. The ideal candidate will have prior experience in the field of workforce development and/or social service work with immigrants and refugees.  

RESPONSIBILITIES:  
In this position, the intern will support the Workforce Development Specialist with tasks related to case management, specifically related to workforce development, for clients enrolled in the Adult Education English language courses. The intern will create action plans, identify additional services needed, and monitor progress towards the goal with individual students.  
Assist Workforce Development Specialist with a caseload of up to 90 students.  
Conduct one-on-one meetings with clients to set SMART goals for employment or education needs. 
Assist clients in developing resumes, cover letters, and preparing for interviews.  
Give digital literacy workshops to clients based on their proficiency with computers.  
Track client meetings and progress in case notes and spreadsheets.  
Research employment and vocational training opportunities in NYC.  
Gain an understanding of IRC services to refer students to.  
Research other direct assistance programs to refer clients based on public service needs.  
Communicate effectively with clients in person and via telephone. 
Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy.  
Ability to work with clients from multiple backgrounds with varying English skills.  

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:  
Intern will learn how to effectively build partnerships with employers and broader career development resources such as certification programs, advanced ESL courses, and job trainings.  

Intern will learn how to provide direct services to immigrant and refugee populations.  

Intern will learn how to manage and record student data, meeting notes, and contact referrals.