Early Refugee School Impact Specialist

International Rescue Committee•Wichita, KS

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Early Refugee School Impact (ERSI) Specialist engages in the implementation, coordination, and support of IRC’s early childhood programming in alignment with organizational goals. Program coordination includes conducting program intakes, presenting, and explaining information on childcare options, preschool services, and connecting caregivers to relevant resources. This position will serve caregivers of children ages 0-5. The ERSI Specialist reports directly to the Education Manager.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in social work, early childhood education, or a related field of study is preferred.
Self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills, strong attention to detail, and the proven ability to prioritize duties and manage time effectively.
Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills: the ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and partners in a cross-cultural, multi-disciplinary environment, and the ability to present to a varied public.
Fluent in English, both spoken and written; Bilingual a plus but not required.
Computer proficiency with an emphasis on Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Teams, Outlook). Proven experience in web-based data entry systems.
Strong attention to detail with the ability to prioritize and manage time efficiently.
Strategic, creative, problem solver capable of working well independently and as a part of a team.
Cross-cultural understanding and strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
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 for home visits, agency visits, and service provider visits.
Well organized and enthusiastic about working in a multi-cultural and client-centered setting.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual a plus but not required.

Responsibilities

Develop resources and expand partnerships that promote the success of refugee families through material design and partner engagement.
Nurture partnerships with childcare centers and preschool service providers to advocate and provide support for the caregivers.
Assess that quality practices are implemented and program outcomes are met; maintain data and reports indicating such.
Serve as a focal point in the community for referrals to educational programs and services.
Design and implement activities, workshops, and services which directly contribute to positive outcomes for refugee families.
Identify and connect with licensed childcare providers and preschools who may partner with IRC.
Perform outreach and educate caregivers on the benefits of enrolling children in childcare and preschool.
Liaise between childcare providers, preschools, parents, caseworkers, employment specialists, and other relevant colleagues.
Conduct intakes with qualified program participants to assess the needs of each individual/family.
Assist interested caregivers with applications for childcare and financial resources (through childcare provider or government assistance).
Lead and facilitate educational workshops, meetings, and events to promote healthy parenting skills.
Provide follow-up with providers and families to assess the effectiveness of childcare plans.
Conduct assessments of caregivers’ understanding of age-appropriate resources, activities, and childcare options.
Ensure required intake documents are fully completed and service plan updated as appropriate.
Comply with all IRC policies, procedures and protocols including adherence to the IRC Way and Child Safeguarding.
Participate in all program meetings, staff development activities, and other duties as assigned.
Work as part of a team to provide comprehensive strength-based services to IRC clients through coordination of cases and effective communication between team members and departments.
Comply with all policies, procedures, and protocols of the agency, placing importance on client confidentiality.

Benefits

10 paid sick leave
10 U.S. holidays
20-25 generous paid time off based on role and tenure
medical insurance starting at $163/month
dental starting at $6.50/month
vision starting at $5/month
flexible spending accounts (healthcare, dependent care, and commuter)
a 403(b) retirement savings plan with employer match (immediate vesting) along with a non-elective employer contribution based on age and years of service (3-year vesting)
disability and life insurance
an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential counseling and support services for employees and their families.