Employment SpecialistLutheran Social Services of the Southwest • Phoenix, AZ, US

Employment Specialist

Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest • Phoenix, AZ, US

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Job Description

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 or

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.

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Employment Specialist • Phoenix, AZ, US