Refugee Education Specialist

What We Do

As one of Iowa’s most trusted human services agencies, LSI has a legacy of serving children, adults, and families for nearly 160 years. Our Immigrant and Refugee Community Services lift up hundreds of new Iowans each year through resettlement services, wellness programming, economic development services, and our educational classes help them thrive in their new home. You can make a difference and empower your newest neighbors.

What You’ll Do

The Refugee Education Specialist will work as part of the Reception and Placement (R&P) team to provide direct services to recently arrived refugees served by LSI Immigrant and Refugee Community Services. The Refugee Education Specialist will create an implement cultural orientation and workplace orientation and training activities, including coordination of client transportation, childcare, and interpretation. The Specialist will assist with referral to English classes and supervision of on-site volunteer ELL program, referral to degree transfer programs, and other educational opportunities as needed. This individual will b responsible for coordinating with internal and external partners necessary for the effective delivery of services.

Service provision oversight and support may occur during normal business hours, after hours, or on weekends.

What You’ll Need

Bachelors degree in a related field and experience working in education and/or serving refugees. Candidates with an equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered (Minimum of high school diploma/GED + 4 years of experience OR Associates degree + 2 years experience). TESOL certification is required within the first 6 months of employment (all costs will be covered by LSI).

Fluency in English is required. Additional linguistic skills to meet the needs of the clients are desired but not required.

At LSI, competitive compensation goes far beyond an hourly rate. For eligible employees, LSI pays for a portion of employee health premiums, offers a monthly wellness discount on health insurance premiums, and contributes to your health savings account each pay check. We offer an employee assistance program, gym membership discounts, banking assistance through Dupaco, and advanced pay throughout our pay periods. LSI will reimburse you for mileage, offer a 401k match contribution, and provide ongoing professional development training. In addition LSI offers a generous paid time off package which included 9 paid holidays and and a magnanimous accrual for hours worked. As a non-profit employer many employees also can qualify for student loan forgiveness programs.

Who We Are

LSI is an equal opportunity employer. At LSI we respect diverse life experiences, cultures and heritages, and strive to provide that all voices are heard and valued. You can learn more about our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion at https://lsiowa.org/who-we-are/

This position requires a valid driver’s license, auto insurance, a good driving record and the ability to pass an extensive background check including checks of the Dependent Adult and Child Abuse registries, Sex Offender registry and a criminal history check.