Caseworker, Virtual PIR

POSITION SUMMARY:

HIAS provides virtual resettlement services to clients in the Virtual Program of Initial Resettlement (VPIR) funded by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR). This program is an alternative, “lighter touch” pathway for higher-resourced cases with strong U.S. Ties. In the virtual setting, caseworkers assist from afar, communicating through various channels, to assist as needed to position new arrivals for the same ultimate goal—successful integration in the community and early self-sufficiency.

HIAS seeks a Caseworker, Virtual PIR to coordinate core services through VPIR for newly arrived refugees. Arriving refugees will be placed with their family and friends (U.S. Ties) and the Caseworker, VPIR will provide guidance and case management remotely during their first 90 days upon arrival. Due to the remote nature of this program, this position requires an experienced and skilled caseworker who thrives in problem-solving situations, is committed to serving newcomers resettling in the United States and is responding to refugee needs in a trauma-informed and client-centered way.This role works towards the goal of ensuring refugees’ self-sufficiency at the end of the service period and providing all needed support and guidance to refugees and their U.S. Ties during the service period. Key responsibilities include overseeing pre-arrival preparations as needed and providing culturally appropriate remote case management.

Note, this position is based at our headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland and we will consider a remote option for applicants who live outside of commuting distance to either of our offices and are based in the following states: Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia.

The salary for this position is $55,000-60,000. This position is grant funded and the position is contingent on funding.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Works in partnership with supervisor on coordinating arrival of refugees VPIR by interviewing U.S. Ties and ensuring they are equipped to house and resettle arriving refugees.
• Conducts intake services with clients and assesses needs through completing the Needs Assessment with each case. Works with each adult to create an individualized Self-Sufficiency Plan.
• Assists clients with accessing social services remotely, by providing instructions and recommendations for enrollment in benefits, school, employment services and any additional services they may qualify for.
• Ensures clients receive Refugee Health Screenings and all required medical attention as needed.
• Regularly communicates with refugee clients and their U.S. Ties to ensure clients have suitable living arrangements and monitor their well-being.
• Thoroughly researches enrollment processes for benefits, school, employment and any additional services in each service area in which clients reside to be able to help clients and U.S. Ties navigate these enrollments.
• Assess and monitor client progress toward their goals, address challenges, and provide resources to support clients in achieving their goals.
• Documents client interactions and services in a timely manner and in compliance with program requirements; inputs client information in database(s) and assists with tracking and reporting as needed.
• Advocates on behalf of the clients throughout the broader community.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS:

• Undergraduate degree preferred.
• 2-3 years of relevant professional experience.
• Understanding of available community resources that impact and/or benefit the targeted client needs.
• Knowledge of basic client management procedures for determining eligibility, assessing needs, identifying resources, making referrals, following-up and documenting client interactions, and proactively supporting client’s pursuit of goals.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to effectively communicate with individuals and groups.
• Excellent planning and organizational skills; ability to prioritize, manage time efficiently in a fast-paced work environment and remain flexible in an ever-changing landscape for refugee issues.
• Strong computer skills, including use of Microsoft Office Suite and databases.
• Ability to work with a high degree of autonomy and accountability while being a team player.