The Welcome Center is an emergency shelter for migrants and asylum seekers who have recently been released from government detention. The goal of the Welcome Center is to provide asylum seekers with a safe respite and supportive emergency services while they coordinate their journey to their new home in the United States.
The Asylum Seekers & A Family Specialist (ASF) will provide direct care services and ensure the safety of families at the IRC Welcome Center. The ASF Specialist provides direct customer service to asylum seekers to ensure that all basic needs are met during their stay. Through their work, ASF professionals support advocacy efforts on behalf of migrants and asylum seekers in the United States. This role also serves as a regular mentor and role model for program volunteers, staff and providers at the Welcome Center. The ASF Specialist works under supervision with moderate latitude to use independent judgment and initiative.
Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
Lead client intake including legal guidance, support travel arrangements and provide resources for clients at their destination locations.
Ensure clients have access to all shelter services, including meals, bedding, clothing, and personal hygiene items as needed.
Answer customer questions regarding Welcome Center services and next steps in the asylum process.
Maintain a clean, safe, reliable and stable hub; clean and arrange the center and maintain child-friendly areas.
Full inventory of the Welcome Center and restocking for the next few days.
Providing support to customers in distress, such as calling emergency services as needed.
Make rounds throughout the shift to ensure smooth operation of all services.
Answer customer and volunteer questions with kindness and enthusiasm.
Ensure compliance with case documentation, case file management and reporting requirements and adhere to strict confidentiality guidelines.
Participate in all program meetings, staff development activities and fully engage as a team member.
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 protection.
Other related duties as assigned.
The position reports to: Supervisor for Asylum Seekers and Families
Indirect reporting: Program Manager for Asylum Seekers and Families
The position directly supervises: Interns and volunteers involved in services for asylum seekers
Other internal and/or external contacts: community partners, voluntary organizations.
External: TSA, ICE and partner organizations and community entities also involved in asylum seeker services.
Education: Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field preferred.
At least two years of proven relevant work experience in the field of human services; preferably in a nonprofit or social service agency setting. Shelter/housing experience preferred.
Previous experience working with refugees or asylum seekers is highly valued.
Demonstrated skills & Competences:
COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement: In accordance with IRC’s duty to provide and maintain a workplace free of known hazards and our commitment to protecting the health of our employees, customers and communities, IRC requires new hires to provide proof of vaccination against COVID- u. -19 to be considered for any office or hybrid position. All IRC offices in the US require full vaccinations to attend all office functions (eg, meetings, training).
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: The IRC is committed to building a diverse organization and a climate of inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from candidates who can demonstrate that they can contribute to this goal.
How to apply
Equal Opportunity Employer: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in 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 people with disabilities have reasonable accommodations to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job duties, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us for accommodation.
