Economic Empowerment Specialist

Overview

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is one of the world's largest international humanitarian non-governmental organizations (INGO), at work in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities helping people to survive, reclaim control of their future and strengthen their communities.

A force for humanity, IRC employees deliver lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity and hope to millions. If you re a solutions-driven, passionate change-maker, come join us in positively impacting the lives of millions of people world-wide for a better future.

The IRC in Northern California was established in 1975 in response to the needs of the growing refugee population. Over the past 40 years the IRC has resettled nearly 60,000 clients in Northern California. Originally focused on reception and placement the IRC provides a range of services including economic empowerment, immigration, community gardening, and case management for victims of trafficking. IRC’s Economic Empowerment programming focuses on connecting individuals to employment opportunities in an effort to lead them down the path of self-sufficiency.

This is accomplished through a combination of employment services, financial education and coaching, and access to public benefits and income supports.

The Economic Empowerment Specialist (EES) supports Limited-English-Proficient CalWORKs and RCA clients participating in the Alameda County LEP, VESL, and Employment Services (ES) Programs. This position is responsible for completing county-mandated intakes, appraisals, and assessments; enrolling clients into VESL and/or ES activities; monitoring monthly participation; and submitting accurate and timely reporting to the county.

The Specialist provides one-on-one job coaching, employment preparation, and resource navigation while ensuring full compliance with IRC and county program requirements. The role requires strong communication and coordination with Alameda County Employment Counselors, partner schools, and IRC internal departments.

• Conduct Introductory Calls followed by Orientation, Appraisal, and Assessment (Intake) appointments for all referred LEP/VESL/ES clients.
• Collect and record all required onboarding documents, assessments, and county-specific forms.
• Determine and enroll clients into the appropriate activity track (VESL, ES, or dual enrollment) based on English proficiency, goals, and county criteria.
• Maintain timely and accurate case notes in both the IRC database (ETO/Caseload system) and the Alameda County database (CalSAWs or other required platforms).

• Conduct monthly follow-ups with all active clients to verify program participation, collect attendance, and address barriers.
• Communicate regularly with Alameda County Employment Counselors regarding client participation, progress, and any compliance concerns.
• Ensure monthly attendance reports, CASAS scores, and activity verifications are submitted to the county on time.
• Provide clients with referrals and resources within IRC (Immigration, Financial Coaching, Health & Wellness, etc.) and to external community-based partner agencies including adult schools, community colleges, workforce programs, and other service providers.

• Provide one-on-one job coaching, including workplace expectations, resume development, job search skills, mock interviews, and career navigation.
• Coordinate and lead job readiness workshops aligned with LEP/ES program expectations.
• Identify appropriate job opportunities and guide clients through the hiring process when they are job-ready.
• Support retention services by following up with employers and clients to address post-placement issues.
• Maintain relationships with local employers and community partners to create pathways for training, volunteer work experience, and employment opportunities.

• Refer clients…