Small Business Development Counselor

About the role

The International Rescue Committee’s Center for Financial Opportunity is seeking a Small Business Development Counselor to expand its Small Business Development Center services in San Diego County. The role focuses on delivering one‑on‑one business advising, outreach, and technical assistance to low‑income entrepreneurs and refugees.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct outreach and recruit eligible San Diego County residents for the Small Business Administration Community Navigator Program.
• Screen applicants, assess eligibility, and match them with appropriate services.
• Partner with ethnic community‑based organizations to coordinate trainings, technical assistance, and data collection.
• Provide one‑on‑one business counseling on start‑up assistance, financial literacy, online sales, and overall business management.
• Lead and facilitate training sessions and workshops on contracting, procurement, marketing, and industry‑specific topics.
• Support the administration of loans and other financial resources for program participants.

Required profile

• Demonstrated passion for helping underserved entrepreneurs achieve self‑sufficiency.
• Experience in small‑business counseling, community outreach, or economic development.
• Familiarity with SBA Community Navigator Program guidelines and eligibility criteria.
• Strong organizational skills for coordinating trainings, data collection, and administrative tasks.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to work with a leading international humanitarian organization.
• Impact‑driven role supporting refugees and low‑income entrepreneurs.
• Professional development in small‑business development and grant‑managed programs.