ESL Intake Specialist

Job Description

JOB OVERVIEW:

In an effort to support newly arrived refugees and immigrants in starting their lives successfully in the U.S., the IRC’s Education and Learning Department provides free ESL classes to adult clients. The classes aim to build vocabulary and communication skills, convey skills necessary for the American workforce, and impart information about integral life skills and systems so that clients can be successful and productive members of their communities.

In Fall 2022, these classes will meet three days per week, for 2-3-hour class sessions, with both in-person and online class options. The ESL Intake Specialist will work with clients individually to complete enrollment documents, discuss goals, and schedule a formal proficiency level assessment. After assessments clients will be placed in classes based on their level. Year-round classes operate with rolling enrollment and the ESL Intake Specialist orients and places new students into classes on a weekly basis. Classes are multi-level, meaning multiple levels will be represented within a single class. Assistance from ESL interns and volunteers allow for breakout groups to separate students by their proficiency level. Instruction is focused on developing literacy, comprehension, and confidence to apply towards real world situations including dealing with housing issues, shopping, the K-12 public school system, public transportation, employment, healthcare, and other daily life skills. The ESL Intake Specialist will be tasked with monitoring client progress and growth.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Conduct comprehensive intake and assessments of client needs; develop, implement, monitor, and evaluate individualized service plans with each client. Link each client with appropriate community supports to ensure their progress towards the individualized service plan - Develop curriculum and conduct instruction on various subjects for large groups, small groups and/or individuals. - Compile data, perform data entry, and assemble information for comprehensive reports or forms. Complete required reporting for group and/or individual classes. - Conduct community-based outreach/educational activities to create awareness about the ESL program and its services. - Research and analyze client populations trends and emerging needs. Evaluate and work with program leadership to modify program responses to address identified needs. - Assist in the identification and development of resources (volunteers, in-kind donations) necessary to ensure successful program performance, including the preparation of proposals. - Assist in developing program policies and procedures to ensure effective and efficient delivery of services and use of resources. Cultivate positive relationships with relevant funding and monitoring entities, faith-based organizations, social service providers, and other community partners. Participate in appropriate community collaborations - Complete all necessary documentation to ensure compliance with funding requirements, licensing requirements, COA standards, and agency quality assurance standards.

- Empower clients towards cultural acquisition and integration into the new community. Perform comprehensive assessment on each student to established quality assurance including pre-test and post- tests.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

- Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree or TESOL certificate preferred - Experience teaching ESL to adults from culturally diverse backgrounds using culturally responsive strategies - Previous experience working with refugees or immigrants preferred; - Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is required; - Second language proficiency in relevant language highly desirable (including Arabic, Farsi, Dari, Pashto, Spanish, Russian and French)Excellent verbal and written communication skills - Effective, professional presentation skills; - Proficient in general office software programs, e.g., MS Office suite, email, internet applications and relational databases (familiarity with Efforts to Outcomes particularly valuable); - Proven ability to work as a team member in a cross-cultural environment; - Detail oriented with excellent organizational skills, ability to multi-task and complete work in a fast-paced environment; and - Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle with current insurance, and the ability to travel regularly throughout the service delivery area preferred.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

- Standard office work environment combined with considerable time in the field and in neighborhoods where clients live and work. - Classes will take place online via Zoom, in the IRC office, and offsite. - Travel in and around Dallas/Ft. Worth to facilitate service delivery, build community relationships and represent the IRC with community partners. - Hours outside of typical office hours required at times.

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement: In accordance with IRC’s duty to provide and maintain a workplace that is free of known hazards and our commitment to safeguard the health of our employees, clients, and communities, IRC requires candidates who are selected for interview to furnish proof of vaccination against COVID-19 in order to be considered for this position.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusivity: IRC is committed to building a diverse organization and a climate of inclusivity. We strongly encourage applications from candidates who can demonstrate that they can contribute to this goal.

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: We offer a comprehensive and highly competitive set of benefits. In the US, these include: 10 sick days, 10 US holidays, 20-25 paid time off days depending on role and tenure, medical insurance starting at $120 per month, dental starting at $7 per month, and vision starting at $5 per month, FSA for healthcare and commuter costs, a 403b retirement savings plans with immediately vested matching, disability & life insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program which is available to our staff and their families to support counseling and care in times of crisis and mental health struggles.

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