Refugee Employment Specialist in Phoenix, Arizona at Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest

Join Our Mission:

If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and have experience supporting refugee populations in achieving rapid and lasting economic self-sufficiency through job development and successful employment placement, join us in fulfilling the mission of LSS-SW to support and empower our community's most vulnerable members, and our vision of “A future where all people thrive.”

Position Overview:

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. This position plays a key role in empowering refugees to thrive and integrate through stable employment — a cornerstone of long-term success.

Key Responsibilities:

Client Employment Services:

• 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.

Job Development & Employer Engagement:

• 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

Job Placement & Retention:

• 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).

Qualifications:

• 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

Other Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Proficient computer skills and knowledge of Outlook and Microsoft Office Programs (i.e. Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Ability to speak, read, and write English
• Ability to speak, read, and write in another language commonly used by our client population is preferred
• 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

Physical Demands:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be required to sit or stand for long periods.
• The employee frequently is required to use hands to hold objects and operate office equipment.
• The employee may be required to occasionally lift and/or move 25 pounds.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement:

We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible workplace. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.