Back Asylum Seekers and Families Specialist - Rolling Application

PLEASE NOTE: This specific application is intended to be a rolling application, meaning if you are interested in working at the welcome center as a caseworker, we will refer you to open positions within the center.

Language Skills: Bilingual ability preferred in Spanish, Dari, Swahili, Kinyarwanda, Arabic, French or other refugee/immigrant language used in Arizona.

The welcome center is an emergency shelter for migrants and Asylum Seekers who have recently been released from government custody. The Welcome Center aims to provide safe respite and supportive emergency services to Asylum Seekers while they coordinate travel to their new home in the US.

The Asylum Seekers & Families (ASF) Specialist will provide direct care services and ensure the safety of the families at IRC’s Welcome Center. The ASF Specialist provides direct client services to asylum seekers to ensure all basic needs are met during their stay. Though their work, ASF Specialist support in the advocacy efforts on behalf of migrant and asylum seekers in the United States. This role also regularly coaches, and role models for the program volunteers, staff and providers at the Welcome Center. The ASF Specialist operates under supervision with moderate latitude for the use of independent judgment and initiative.

Major Responsibilities:

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct client intakes including legal orientation, support travel arrangements, and provide resources for clients in their destination locations.
• Ensure clients have access to all services provided at the shelter including meals, bedding, clothes, and personal hygiene supplies as needed.
• Answer client questions regarding Welcome Center services, and asylum process next steps.
• Maintain a clean, safe, secure, and stable center; clean and organize the center and maintain child-friendly spaces.
• Complete inventory of Welcome Center supplies and restocking for next day operations.
• Provide support to clients in distress such as calling emergency services as needed.
• Complete rounds throughout the shift, to ensure all services are running smoothly.
• Answer client and volunteer questions with kindness and enthusiasm.
• Ensure compliance with case documentation, case file management and reporting requirements, adhering to strict confidentiality guidelines.
• Participate in all program meetings, staff development activities, and fully engages as a member of the team.
• Actively participate in the development and growth of the Welcome Center service areas.
• Comply with all IRC policies, procedures and protocols including adherence to the IRC Way and Child Safeguarding.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field of study preferred.

Work Experience:

• At least two years’ demonstrated relevant work experience in human services field; preferably in a non-profit or social services agency environment. Shelter/residential experience preferred.
• Prior experience working with refugee populations or asylum seekers is highly valued.

Demonstrated Skills & Competencies:

• Fluency in written and spoken English; Proficiency in written and spoken English, bilingual ability preferred in Spanish, Dari, Swahili, Kinyarwanda, Arabic, French or other refugee/immigrant language used in Arizona.
• 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 applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) and strong keyboarding skills and research skills.
• Good communication skills; experience in a multi-cultural environment preferred.
• Must have a valid driver’s license, active insurance policy, access to reliable transportation and the ability to travel regularly throughout the service delivery area.
• Ability and willingness to drive a 15-passenger van.
• In accordance with Arizona State Law, must possess or be eligible to receive a fingerprint clearance card.
• Must be able to work non-traditional hours, such as weekends, nights and holidays as needed.

Working Environment:**

• The Welcome Center is a 24-hour facility; flexible work hours, including holidays, evenings, and weekends with regular contact with ASF clients and volunteers.

Compensation: 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 requirement.

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.