Workforce Specialist

Job Type: Full‑time

FLSA; EEO; WC:
Non‑Exempt;
Professional; 8864

Job Class/Grade:
Specialist 1/Grade 8

Salary:
Starting at $48,600 per year based on experience

Locations: IRCO Main Office, 10301 NE Glisan St., Portland, OR 97220

Schedule:

Hybrid (at least 3 days in office + remote work)

Duration:
Limited through September 30, 2026; contract continuation variable

Number of Positions: 1

Program:
Refugee Employment Services

Sector:
Refugee Skills and Employment Services

The Refugee Employment Services (RES) Program prepares refugees for career success by providing comprehensive employment and training services including Pre‑Employment & Work‑Readiness training, resume support, barrier reduction, job placement, retention, and career planning services to help individuals integrate into the workforce and achieve self‑sufficiency. The program staff works directly with employers to match clients to jobs that our business partners have available.

This position is responsible for helping program participants establish short‑ and long‑term career goals, gain the necessary skills to improve employability, assist with job search and employment retention, and support job seekers with career development services. It includes outreach, intake, planning, and coordination with employers and community partners.

• Conduct proactive outreach to eligible clients via phone calls, emails, community visits, and referrals.
• Maintain accurate records of outreach efforts, responses, and follow‑up actions.
• Complete initial intake to determine a participant’s eligibility and create an Individual Employment Plan.
• Refer participants to English Assessment, Mass Transit Training, Childcare Training and Pre‑Employment English Training.
• Develop an Employment Plan to identify needed skills and address pre‑work‑readiness issues.
• Communicate with participants regularly to track progress toward employment goals.
• Explain non‑cooperation issues and participants’ rights and responsibilities.
• Monitor mandatory participation to maintain program eligibility.
• Maintain case notes and progress reporting.
• Coordinate services with outside providers.
• Conduct job marketing and searches for participants.
• Consult with employers regarding hiring concerns and retention strategies.
• Orient newly hired clients on employer policies, benefits, safety procedures, and other retention supports.
• Communicate regularly with ODHS Family Coaches, resettlement agencies, case managers, and other partners about participant activity and progress.
• Collaborate with internal teams and partner agencies to identify and connect clients to employment services.
• Attend community events to promote program offerings and enroll participants.

• Demonstrate flexibility in a demanding environment and respond to changing priorities.
• Meet multiple, sometimes conflicting deadlines.
• Apply analytical and decision‑making skills.
• Handle distressed and demanding clients and employers effectively.
• Make sound judgments in a fast‑paced environment.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Exhibit strong intercultural, interpersonal, and organizational communication skills.
• Communicate positively in person, by phone, and in writing.
• Work with a diverse range of personalities and organizational levels.
• Listen and assist in problem solving.
• Prepare clear, accurate, concise reports.
• Be punctual, demonstrate good attendance, and work flexible hours to meet client availability.
• Use basic office equipment, telephone, copy machine, fax machine, and computer.
• Sit, stand, walk, drive, talk on the phone, and use the computer for extended periods.
• Participate in network meetings, internal IRCO meetings, and community events.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Specific

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 2 years of work experience.

• Experience with pre‑employment activities and job search development.
• Knowledge and/or experience of vocational and/or placement counseling for target populations.
• Knowledge of the local job market and employer concerns.
• Experience working with clients of varied backgrounds,…