Youth Services Specialist

International Rescue Committee•Louisville, KY

About The Position

The Youth Services Specialist supports the International Rescue Committee’s Refugee School Impact (RSI) program, helping ORR-eligible refugee students ages 6–18 and their parents or guardians access and succeed in the U.S. education system. The Specialist assists families with school enrollment, leads student and parent orientations, provides tutoring and academic support during the school year, and runs a summer academic program. The role includes monitoring students’ academic progress and coordinating with school staff, community partners, and the Education & Youth Services Manager to align services with program goals. The position combines work in a standard office environment, remote work, and field time within the service delivery area. Occasional non-local domestic travel of up to 10% is required, and occasional weekend or evening work may be needed. The position is expected to end on September 30, 2027. The pay rate is $21–$23 per hour.

Requirements

Experience working with refugee, immigrant, or other multicultural youth and families, preferably in a school, resettlement, or case management setting.
Demonstrated ability to work and communicate effectively in a multicultural environment.
Self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to prioritize and manage time effectively.
Attention to detail and accuracy in work product.
Fluency in spoken and written English.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook, and ability to use the internet and digital tools for data entry, research, and problem-solving.
Valid driver’s license and access to a personal, insured vehicle, with ability to transport clients as needed.
Ability to travel occasionally for non-local domestic travel, up to 10%, and work occasional weekends and/or evenings.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in social work, education, or a related field of study preferred.
Proficiency in language(s) spoken by the client group desired.
Familiarity with the U.S. education system, or willingness to learn local school district processes and requirements, preferred.
Experience with a client database system such as ClientTrack is a plus.
First Aid and CPR certification preferred, or willingness to obtain certification before the start of the program.

Responsibilities

Assist newly arrived ORR-eligible families with school enrollment for children ages 6–18, including interpretation support as needed.
Provide school orientation to enrolled students and lead Extended School Orientation workshops for parents and guardians on topics such as school choice, transportation, attendance, and supporting their child’s education.
Coordinate with Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) Office of Multilingual Learners and other school staff to identify enrollment issues and keep teachers informed of students’ academic progress.
Support families choosing private schools, homeschooling, or districts outside JCPS, including newly arrived refugee families served through the Program of Initial Resettlement.
Deliver the after-school program twice a week during the school year, providing reading and writing tutoring and other academic support, with assistance from interns or volunteers.
Conduct regular one-on-one student check-ins at school to track grades, homework completion, and attendance, and coordinate with teachers to address concerns early.
Refer students and families to IRC programs or other community resources when needs arise outside of school.
Plan and lead the summer academic program, including academic reinforcement, enrichment activities, field trips, and transportation to and from students’ homes.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of services, referrals, and orientations in ClientTrack.
Assist in recruiting, training, and supervising interns or other youth program staff.
Attend regular meetings with the Education & Youth Services Manager to discuss programming and concerns.
Support case closures, transition planning, and other closeout activities as the program year winds down.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Drive clients for school enrollment, summer programs, and after-school activities as needed.

Benefits

10 paid sick leave days
10 U.S. holidays
20–25 days of paid time off based on role and tenure
Medical insurance starting at $163 per month
Dental insurance starting at $6.50 per month
Vision insurance starting at $5 per month
Flexible spending accounts for healthcare, dependent care, and commuter expenses
403(b) retirement savings plan with employer match and immediate vesting
Non-elective employer retirement contribution based on age and years of service, with three-year vesting
Disability insurance
Life insurance
Employee Assistance Program offering confidential counseling and support services for employees and their families