The Student Support Specialist, Youth Futures at the International Rescue Committee (IRC) plays a pivotal role in shaping the lives of refugee youth by overseeing and managing the Youth Futures program. This program, a beacon of hope for many, is designed to prepare refugee youth for a successful journey through high school and beyond.
In this dynamic and impactful role, the Student Support Specialist is entrusted with a range of responsibilities that contribute to the program’s success. At the core of their duties is the planning and execution of IRC’s afterschool and summer program tailored for English Language Learners at Clarkston High School and other DeKalb County schools. The specialist serves as a bridge between the organization and school personnel, forging strong relationships and collaborating seamlessly with educators to identify and recruit students who will benefit most from the program.
On a day-to-day basis, the specialist takes charge of maintaining a safe and positive environment for program participants, ensuring that all activities are in compliance with IRC’s standards. Beyond academic support, they orchestrate enriching experiences for students, including after-school workshops and captivating weekend field trips.
A critical component of this role is the coordination of academic support services, individualized to meet the unique needs of refugee and immigrant students. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to accuracy, the specialist meticulously tracks program progress and prepares comprehensive reports that are vital for funders and internal stakeholders, thus ensuring that the program stays aligned with its goals.
The Student Support Specialist is not only an orchestrator but also a mentor and leader. They provide supervision and technical guidance to Youth Futures AmeriCorps Service members, interns, and volunteers, nurturing their development and ensuring a cohesive team approach.
In a multicultural environment, the specialist’s excellent communication skills shine as they engage with youth through various platforms, including online spaces like Zoom and social media. Fluency in English is a must, and proficiency in languages spoken by the client group, such as Spanish, Dari, Pashto, Arabic, French, or Haitian-Creole, is highly desired.
Location:
United StatesBenefits
- Comprehensive Benefits Package: The International Rescue Committee (IRC) offers a competitive set of benefits to its employees. This includes medical insurance starting at $145 per month, dental coverage starting at $7 per month, and vision coverage starting at $5 per month.
- Paid Time Off: IRC provides generous paid time off, including 10 sick days, 10 U.S. holidays, and 20-25 paid time off days, depending on the role and tenure.
- Retirement Savings: Employees can participate in a 403b retirement savings plan with up to a 4.5% immediately vested matching contribution from IRC, along with a 3-7% base IRC contribution (subject to a 3-year vesting period).
- Additional Insurance: Disability and life insurance are available to provide financial protection.
- Employee Assistance Program: IRC offers an Employee Assistance Program that provides counseling and support for employees and their families during times of crisis and mental health struggles.
- Equal Opportunity Employer: IRC is committed to diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. Reasonable accommodations are provided to individuals with disabilities during the job application or interview process.
- Commitment to Diversity and Inclusivity: IRC actively encourages applications from candidates who can contribute to building a diverse and inclusive organization.
- Gender Equality: IRC is dedicated to narrowing the gender gap in leadership positions and offers benefits that support women’s participation in the workforce.
- Professional Standards: IRC operates under a set of professional standards that include Integrity, Service, Equality, and Accountability. These standards emphasize beneficiary protection, child safeguarding, anti-workplace harassment, fiscal integrity, and anti-retaliation policies.
Eligibilities
- Education: The candidate should possess a Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field of study. While not mandatory, this educational background is preferred.
- Work Experience: The ideal candidate should have relevant professional experience in positive youth development, youth social-emotional development, youth academic support, and ensuring participant safety in a school-based setting. A minimum of 1 year of experience is strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated Skills & Competencies:
- Strong relationship-building skills, diplomacy, and networking abilities are crucial for building and maintaining positive relationships both internally and externally.
- A deep belief in the potential of all youth to achieve their education, career, and personal goals is essential.
- Proficiency in engaging youth in online environments through platforms like Zoom, Facebook, or other social media.
- Proven experience working effectively in a multicultural environment.
- Self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to manage time effectively.
- Attention to detail and accuracy in work product.
- Fluency in English (both spoken and written) is required, and proficiency in languages spoken by the client group (e.g., Spanish, Dari, Pashto, Arabic, French, Haitian-Creole) is desired.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) and the ability to use digital tools for data entry, research, and problem-solving.
- A valid driver’s license and access to a personal, insured vehicle are necessary.
Application Process
Click the “Apply Link” button and apply for the job.
Application Deadline: November 30, 2023
Application ClosedOfficial link
