IRC Vacancy: Youth Development & Education Specialist (Apply Now)

Organization: International Rescue Committee (IRC) Role: Youth Development & Education Specialist Department: Resettlement, Asylum, and Integration (RAI) Location: Multiple Locations (e.g., New York, San Diego, Denver, Silver Spring) Salary: Approx. $58,000 – $68,000 USD (Location Dependent) + Full Benefits Contract: Full-Time / Regular Closing Date: Rolling Recruitment for the 2026 School Year

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster.

In 2026, as refugee admissions continue to rise, we are seeking a passionate Youth Development & Education Specialist to join our team.

Arriving in a new country is daunting. For a refugee teenager, it involves learning a new language, navigating a complex high school system, and processing the trauma of displacement—all at once. You will be their advocate, their mentor, and their bridge to a brighter future.

Also check Human Resources (HR) Assistant Officer – UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR)

Job Description & Impact

The Youth Development & Education Specialist is responsible for the academic and social-emotional success of refugee youth (ages 12–24) within the IRC’s resettlement program.

You will design and implement programs that close the “achievement gap.” This is not just a desk job; you will be visiting schools, running after-school academies, and working directly with families to ensure parents are engaged in their children’s education.

The Goal: Ensure that every refugee client has equitable access to education and the tools to graduate high school and pursue college or a vocational career.

Key Responsibilities

1. School Enrollment & Advocacy

• Assist newly arrived families with the registration process for K-12 public schools.
• Advocate for appropriate grade placement and English as a New Language (ENL/ESL) services.
• Act as a liaison between the family and the school district to resolve behavioral or attendance issues.

2. Youth Programming (The “Fun” Part)

• Coordinate the “Refugee Youth Summer Academy” (RYSA) and after-school tutoring programs.
• Develop curriculum for “Saturday Learning Series” focusing on Social Emotional Learning (SEL), cultural adjustment, and conflict resolution.
• Organize field trips and mentorship activities to help youth build confidence in their new community.

3. College & Career Readiness

• Guide high school seniors through the college application process (FAFSA, essays, scholarships).
• Run workshops on vocational training and alternative career pathways for older youth (18-24).

4. Case Management

• Maintain accurate case notes in the IRC database (ETO/Salesforce).
• Conduct regular “check-ins” with a caseload of 30-50 youth to monitor their academic progress.

IRC Vacancy: Youth Development & Education Specialist (Apply Now)

Qualifications

We are looking for an educator with a social worker’s heart.

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Social Work, International Relations, or Psychology is required.
• Master’s Degree in Education or Social Work is a plus.

Experience

• Minimum 2+ years of experience working with youth, preferably in a school or non-profit setting.
• Experience with Trauma-Informed Care or working with survivors of conflict is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of the local public school system and graduation requirements.

Skills & Languages

• Language: Fluency in English is required. Fluency in a major client language (Dari, Pashto, Arabic, Spanish, Ukrainian, or Swahili) is a massive advantage and often prioritizes your application.
• Driver’s License: A valid license and access to a vehicle are often required to transport clients or visit schools.

Why Work for the IRC?

1. Real Impact You will see the direct result of your work. When a student you enrolled in 9th grade walks across the stage at graduation three years later, you know you helped make that happen.

2. Global Culture The IRC office is a melting pot. You will work alongside colleagues from dozens of countries, creating a rich, multicultural work environment.

3. Comprehensive Benefits

• Health: Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement: 403(b) plan with employer match.
• Leave: Generous vacation, personal days, and sick leave policy.

How to Apply

1. Visit the Portal: Go to rescue.org/careers.
2. Search: Use keywords “Youth,” “Education,” or “RAI.”
3. Filter: Select your desired Country (e.g., USA) and City.
4. Cover Letter: Do not skip this. Write a letter explaining your philosophy on “Refugee Education” and why you are resilient enough for this demanding work.

Pro Tip: IRC recruiters look for candidates who understand “Boundaries.” In your interview, demonstrate how you balance being a supportive mentor with maintaining professional caseworker boundaries.

Suggested Focus Keywords

IRC Careers 2026, Refugee Youth Jobs, Education Specialist Non-Profit, Social Work Jobs with Youth, ESL Program Coordinator, Humanitarian Jobs USA, Case Management Vacancy