Refugee Employment Specialist

Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest•Phoenix, AZ

10d•$0 - $21•Onsite

About The Position

This position plays a key role in empowering refugees to thrive and integrate through stable employment — a cornerstone of long-term success. The Refugee Employment Specialist develops and implements individualized Employment and Self-Sufficiency Plans, conducts employability assessments and deliver job readiness services, including orientation, job clubs, vocational training, and job placement, build strong employer partnerships and act as a cultural liaison to support successful job placements and long-term retention, and maintains regular follow-up with clients and employers, ensuring accurate documentation and compliance with program and federal requirements. The ideal candidate for this role has a solid understanding of refugee resettlement programs (RRP), TANF/RCA requirements, and experience supporting individuals with limited English proficiency or employment barriers.

Requirements

High School diploma or GED required
Bachelor’s degree in social work, sociology, psychology, or a related field
Four years related education or social service experience, preferable working with immigrant populations, or equivalent combination of education and experience may substitute for a Bachelor’s degree
Provide and maintain a valid Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card, clear the Central Registry Background Check and a criminal background and motor vehicle screening
Maintain valid AZ Driver’s License, an acceptable driving record through duration of employment, and reliable transportation
Proficient computer skills and knowledge of Outlook and Microsoft Office Programs (i.e. Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Ability to speak, read, and write English
Excellent oral and written communications skills
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to handle sensitive and confidential situations
Ability to relate well with families of varied lifestyles, backgrounds and ethnicities

Nice To Haves

Ability to speak, read, and write in another language commonly used by our client population is preferred

Responsibilities

Develop Self-Sufficiency Plan (SSP) and individualized Employment Plans (EPs) within 30 days of RCA eligibility determination, establishing short- and long-term goals.
Provide employment orientation, job readiness training, job clubs, and employment workshops.
Provide culturally responsive coaching on American workplace culture, rights and responsibilities, job search, budgeting, and retention.
Refer clients to training, credentialing, or vocational programs when appropriate.
Develop and maintain employer partnerships, including outreach to employers open to hiring clients with limited or no English proficiency.
Promote subsidized employment and on-the-job training opportunities when appropriate.
Accompany clients to job sites, interviews, and orientations as needed.
Conduct timely follow-ups with employers to support retention and resolve concerns.
Maintain updated employer contact information, job leads, and labor market insights.
Support clients in completing job applications, interview preparation, and onboarding documentation.
Provide post-employment follow-up and supportive services at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months, as well as 90-day retention milestones.
Collaborate with Case Managers to ensure Employment Plans align with Self-Sufficiency Plans (SSPs).