Program Officer, Workforce Development

About the role

The Program Officer, Workforce Development supports the International Rescue Committee’s Economic Empowerment programs by managing key workforce development initiatives across multiple U.S. cities and, occasionally, Europe. This role provides strategic, partnership, and project‑management support to advance workforce development for refugees, immigrants, and adult learners.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic support for a portfolio of workforce development initiatives, primarily in California.
• Monitor trends, pilots, and programs in workforce development related to refugees, immigrants, and adult education.
• Guide Economic Empowerment program managers and staff on workforce development projects.
• Initiate, develop, and grow partnerships with public and private sector stakeholders in workforce development and adult education.
• Support fundraising and partnership development through external engagement.
• Serve as project manager for grant‑funded workforce development initiatives, overseeing planning, resource development, data collection, and reporting.
• Coordinate with the Economic Empowerment technical team, project partners, and other IRC colleagues to ensure high‑quality, timely project delivery.

Required profile

• Experience in workforce development, adult education, or related economic empowerment programs.
• Proven ability to build and manage partnerships with public and private sector entities.
• Strong project management skills, including planning, reporting, and resource coordination.
• Knowledge of the challenges faced by refugees and immigrants in the U.S. labor market.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate across multiple IRC offices and external partners.

Required skills