Cultural Orientation Trainer (National Position)

The Resettlement Support Center Asia (RSC Asia), funded by the US State Department Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM), assists persons throughout Asia seeking permanent resettlement in the United States. Responsible for a portfolio of 37 countries, RSC Asia: prepares refugee applications for the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) using START (a State Department–managed data system that supports the arrival and resettlement of refugees through technology); provides information to resettlement agencies about arriving refugees and offers cultural orientation training to refugees bound for the United States. RSC Asia is based in Bangkok, Thailand, with sub-offices in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh.

Job Overview/Summary:

Cultural Orientation (CO) is an essential phase where refugees are given an orientation to assist them in their adjustment and integration into life in the U.S. Each training session is tailored to a specific refugee population and its demographics. See https://settleinus.org for more information about CO.

The Cultural Orientation Trainer is responsible for conducting cultural orientation class in accordance with the curriculum developed by RSC and is able to provide training for a variety of wide range of participant groups including unaccompanied minors, sensitive cases, family classes, etc. Furthermore, the CO Trainer is responsible for assisting with the development and maintenance of CO curriculum and materials. The CO Trainer collaborates with partner agencies, NGOs, and CBOs on the ground as appropriate. The CO Trainer works closely with the other CO Trainers/Senior CO Trainers based in Mae Sot and in Bangkok. This position reports to the Cultural Orientation Manager.

Major Responsibilities:

• Conduct CO training sessions for groups of 25-30 refugees, including classes for adults, children, youth, unaccompanied refugee minors, and families;
• Conduct in-person CO training sessions in Thailand refugee camps, detention centers, protection shelters, including RSC Asia Bangkok office, and international locations outside of Thailand;
• Conduct remote and phone-based CO training sessions for Thailand and regional based applicants;
• Foster a learner-centered environment in the classroom through which refugees build an understanding of the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary for a successful resettlement experience;
• Organize classroom supplies and materials necessary for an interactive environment;
• Assist with the development and design of the CO curriculum including suggestions for updates and improvements;
• Ensure all data is accurately entered into START, including CO scheduling and post-CO data entry, as needed;
• Monitor and train refugee support staff who help with interpretation, childcare, and other services as required;
• Assist with development and implementation of the CO training schedule and call list when needed;
• Assist with logistical arrangements and the upkeep of CO facilities when necessary;
• Maintain a current understanding of the US Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) and resettlement issues related to CO;
• Communicate and work effectively and cooperatively with partner agencies including the UNHCR, IOM, NGOs, and CBOs as appropriate and in conjunction with the CO Manager;
• Maintain close contact with the CO Manager;
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Key Working Relationships:

Position Reports to: Cultural Orientation Manager.

Position directly supervises: None

Indirect Reporting: None

Other Internal and/or external contacts:

Internal: RSC Asia CO Mae Sot, CO Bangkok and CO Malaysia, CO Bangladesh, Case Processing, Program Support, Casework and Operations teams.

External: USRAP partners, including IOM and UNHCR

Job Requirements

Education:

•  University degree in any field or equivalent professional experience;

Work Experience:

•  Experience teaching/training adults, preferably in a refugee context;
• Experience teaching/training children/youth is a plus;

Demonstrated Skills and Competencies:

•  Willingness and ability to travel and/or relocate to processing sites to meet the program’s needs;
• Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to work effectively with colleagues and partners in a cross-cultural, multi- disciplinary environment;
• Solid organizational skills with the ability to juggle multiple tasks, work independently, set priorities, effectively manage time and meet deadlines;
• Flexibility and the ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced team environment;

Language and Computer Skills:

•  Excellent spoken and written English language skills;
• Knowledge of Karen and/or Burmese is a plus;
• Proficiency in database management, Microsoft Office programs, and e-mail;

Working Environment: The position is located at the RSC Asia sub-office in Mae Sot. While primarily operating in a standard office work environment, the position does require domestic travel to refugee camp locations, detention centers, the Bangkok office, as well as international travel to support delivery of Cultural Orientation throughout the region. A valid passport and the ability to acquire visas, as necessary, is a requirement.

Application Deadline: 27 June 2024