Caseworker, Asylum Seeking Families (ASF) / SAFE

Job Description

Job Overview: The primary role of the Caseworker for the ASF and SAFE Programs is to provide comprehensive, culturally appropriate, client-centered case management services for program participants, including completing eligibility screening and enrollment paperwork, developing service plans, and providing education about community services, resources, and legal services. This position is also responsible for administrative tasks including case notes, case file management, and data collection.

The caseworker’s time will be split between the ASF and SAFE programs. Approximately 60% ASF; 40% SAFE.

Major Responsibilities: Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

· Complete eligibility screenings and enrollment paperwork for eligible program participants;

· Conduct regular home visits throughout the service period;

· Complete social and legal assessments for all enrolled clients and provide appropriate legal referrals;

· Develop a service and safety plan for each program participant;

· Provide comprehensive case management services, including assistance with accessing community resources through local partners and community services;

· Assist with writing Letters of Support and Sponsor Letters in support of detainees eligible under the SAFE Program;

· Coordinate repatriation efforts when necessary;

· Provide interpretation for clients at interviews, as needed;

· Assist in preparing filings for the Asylum Office, USCIS, and Immigration Court;

· Coordinate with other IRC program staff to provide wrap-around services, where appropriate;

· Support development of partnerships that have potential to bring valuable resources to clients;

· Translate documents written in Spanish;

· Conduct outreach to case management staff, refugee-serving agencies, ethnic community-based organizations and others to inform service providers and asylum seekers of programs and services.

· Ensure all services are linguistically appropriate and help advocate with mainstream service providers for linguistically-appropriate services.

· Ensure all family data is entered into data management system in a timely manner.

· Complete case notes in a thorough and timely fashion.

· Participate in all program meetings, staff development activities, and fully engage as a member of the team.

· Contribute to program reports.

· Comply with all policies, procedures, and protocols of the agency.

· Support statewide efforts to support the needs of asylum seekers as requested and needed.

· Other related duties as assigned.

Key Working Relationships:

Position reports to: Casework Program Manager and SAFE Staff Attorney

Indirect Reporting: Interns/Volunteers
Other Internal and/or external contacts: The ASF Caseworker will be responsible for developing relationships within the IRC network and external relations with social service agencies and government entities to expand the role of IRC ASF and SAFE programs.

Job Requirements:

· Undergraduate degree strongly preferred; Social Work degree preferred; comparable work experience may be substituted. Related professional work or internship experience in refugee/asylee/asylum-seeker social services, humanitarian relief, public service, or other not-for profit environment.

· A minimum of two years of professional work experience.

· Detail-oriented with the proven ability to meet deadlines, communicate effectively across departments, and demonstrate a positive attitude.

· Can work well in stressful situations, reliable, and professional.

· Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) and with using online client management portals.

· Knowledge of the asylum-seeking process or immigration regulations.

· Excellent communication skills, with fluency in written and spoken English; bilingual Spanish required.

· Self- starter with excellent problem solving skills combined with the proven ability to multi-task, prioritize duties, and manage time effectively; contributing both independently and as a key team member.

· Valid driver’s license, access to reliable vehicle with current insurance, and the ability to travel regularly throughout the service delivery area.

Working Environment*:*

A combination of standard office environment, remote work and “field” time within the service delivery are to perform the above outlined responsibilities.

May require occasional weekend and/or evening work.

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.