Job Overview: The IRC in Los Angeles is seeking a candidate to join an exciting and groundbreaking program for asylum seekers in the Los Angeles County area through a pilot program funded by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with oversight by the DHS Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL). This new initiative – the Case Management Pilot Program (CMPP) – will provide case management and associated services and meaningful links to legal assistance to non-detained non-US citizens in immigration removal proceedings and could have national implications for the treatment of asylum seekers and others facing removal in the US.
The Intake Specialist for the Asylum Seekers Case Management Pilot Program assists the Los Angeles CMPP team by coordinating intake and case assignment to eligible asylum-seekers in order to access IRC services by conducting eligibility screenings, sharing up-do-date information about programs, connecting eligible community members with IRC services, and referring them to external service providers. The intake specialist will be expected to provide strengths-based, trauma-informed, client-centered intake services to single-headed asylum seeking households; survivors of domestic violence and gender-based violence; older asylum seekers; youth and young adults without parents or permanent guardians; populations experiencing mental health or psychological difficulties; Asylum seekers with physical disabilities or medical conditions and asylum seekers who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer (LGBTQIA+). This role will review participant eligibility requirements for in-office walk-ins and will work closely with consortium partners on conducting intake of approved participants and conduct case assignment in coordination with the Casework Supervisor. The Intake Specialist will report to the Casework Supervisor, Asylum Seekers Case Management Pilot Program.
Major Responsibilities:
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge and eligibility criteria for CMPP Asylum Seekers Case Management Project and other IRC in Los Angeles asylum-seeker eligible Programs.
- Conduct initial intake and eligibility screenings for walk-in clients to be referred to CRCL for approval and refer them to CMPP County Consortium organizations depending on eligibility and requested services.
- Support program outreach efforts by contacting potentially eligible individuals and service provider agencies, providing information detailing program information and participant eligibility requirements.
- Detail each client interaction in accordance with established requirements. Input client information in database(s) and assist with tracking and reporting as needed.
- Collaborate effectively with coworkers and partner organizations. Build and maintain relationships with area service providers for the benefit of clients.
- Provide referrals to other services as identified in the service plans and connect clients to services identified.
- May train and lead the activities of support staff, volunteers, and interns.
- Attend relevant training courses and meetings at the local and national level.
- Other duties as assigned.
Job Requirements:
Education: Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field of study preferred.
Work Experience:
- Relevant professional experience in human services field required; minimum of 2 years’ experience strongly preferred.
- Experience working with asylum seekers, refugee and/or other immigrant populations strongly preferred.
- Experience in working in a trauma-informed setting and handling confidential information preferred.
- Knowledge of local community social services and navigating the social service system, preferred.
Demonstrated Skills & Competencies:
- Fluent in English, both spoken and written and proficiency in language(s) spoken by IRC’s clients is desired, including Spanish, Russian, French, Haitian Creole, Mandarin, Cantonese, Farsi, Dari and Wolof.
- Strong relationship building, diplomacy, and networking skills; ability to effectively build internal and external relationships.
- Ability to navigate sensitive subjects with vulnerable populations.
- Demonstrated success working and communicating effectively in a multi-cultural environment.
- Self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills combined with the proven ability to multi-task, prioritize duties, and manage time effectively.
- Demonstrated success working and communicating effectively in a multi-cultural environment.
- Proven ability to contribute both independently and as a key team member.
- Attention to detail and accuracy in work product.
- Possess a valid driver’s license and access to a personal, insured vehicle that is reliable and in good working order.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook); ability to use the internet and other digital tools for data entry, research, and problem-solving purposes.
Working Environment:
The Intake Specialist provides virtual and in-person intake services. However, the specialist will be required to attend in person meetings at the discretion of the local office. A variable work schedule / hours including non-traditional hours such as evenings and weekends may be required (on a case-by-case basis).
Posted pay ranges apply to US-based candidates. Ranges are based on various factors including the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget. Exact offers are calibrated by work location, individual candidate experience and skills relative to the defined job requirements.
Equal Opportunity Employer: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
US Benefits: The IRC offers a comprehensive and highly competitive set of benefits. All US employees are eligible for sick time, a 403b retirement savings plans: up to 4.5% immediately vested matching contribution, plus an 3-7% additional IRC contribution, and an Employee Assistance Program which is available to our staff and their families to support in times of crisis and mental health struggles.
In addition, full-time employees are eligible for 10 US paid holidays, 20-25 paid time off days, disability & life insurance, medical, dental, and vision insurance (employee contribution starting at $135, $7, and $5 per month respectively) and FSA for healthcare, childcare, and commuter costs. Part-time employees are eligible for a proportionate amount of paid time off. These additional benefits apply to employees who work at least 6 months within a 12-month time period.