Family Reunification Specialist at Church World Service

Grade: 6
Level: Senior Specialist
Salary: $38,625 Annually
Division: Programs
Department: Processing Support
Unit: Protection

Benefits

CWS Global and RSC Africa offer a total compensation package. The total compensation package includes a housing stipend, company life insurance, comprehensive health insurance, vision coverage, a non-participatory 5% retirement contribution, 22 vacation days a year, 3 personal days per calendar year, 1 day of sick leave per month, AD&D insurance, Bereavement leave, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and optional dental coverage.

EEOC
Church World Service does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or veteran status in employment or the provision of services.

Due to the volume of applications that we receive, only those individuals shortlisted will be contacted.

This position is open to international applicants.

Please note CWS RSC Africa does not accept resumes for positions that are not posted. All applicants are required to submit their resume using the on-line applicant tracking system.

Eligibility List

The eligibility list established as a result of this job posting will be used for a minimum of six months or until the list is exhausted. This list will be used to fill any current and immediate future vacancies. Individuals who are interested in this position should submit their application materials now.

Communication

Please note CWS RSC Africa uses e-mail for all recruitment contacts. Please be sure to check your e-mail regularly.

Application Materials

Your application materials should clearly indicate how you meet the requirements of the position. Be sure your resume is in an easy to read format. Dates of employment on your resume should be in mm/yy format.

Primary Purpose

This position manages all Family Reunification processing activities for RSC Africa. The position is responsible for managing the chain of custody for DNA samples, including DNA counseling, sample collection, and shipping, as well as developing and implementing SOPs for AOR Screening, DNA Collection, and Visa 93 processing, to adhere to guidelines provided by PRM.

Supervision

This position reports to the Processing Support Manager.

Essential Duties

• Ensures all AOR Screening and DNA Counseling, DNA sample collection, and Visa 93 processing procedures adhere to USRAP, USCIS, RPC, and RSC standards and guidelines, including coordinating with RSC Management to ensure the integrity of P3 and Visa case processing and strict adherence to the DOS/BPRM guidelines and RSC’s DNA Standard Operating Procedures.
• Oversees RSC’s strict compliance to international standards of DNA receipt, storage, sample collection, treatment and confidentiality of DNA testing results, and chain of custody procedures, including verification of identities and completion of all required forms.
• Develops, updates and implements Standard Operating Procedures for AOR Screening and DNA sample collection and Visa 93 processing, based on guidance from DOS/BPRM and USCIS and in coordination with RSC Management.
• Coordinates with Field Team managers and supervisors to schedule P3 and Visa case processing in conjunction with RSC and CIS circuit rides throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Works closely with RSC Operations management to ensure that scheduling priorities are in line with PRM and USCIS guidelines.
• Travels to locations throughout Sub-Saharan Africa to conduct DNA sample collection activities and DNA counseling with refugee applicants in a non-confrontational, objective and dignified manner.
• Liaises with implementing partners, including AABB Accredited labs in the US, IOM, UNHCR, Resettlement Agencies and courier companies such as FedEx and DHL in regards to P3 and Visa processing procedures and requirements.
• Works closely with the Data Integrity Unit to develop and ensure the timely distribution of all statistical reports related to P3 and Visa case processing; ensures V93 & P3 processing procedures meet RSC quality standards and adhere to USRAP processing guidelines.
• Consults with RSC Program management to ensure exceptional case scenarios are processed in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Designs and implements training modules to ensure RSC Program staff (Nairobi, Kasulu, and Pretoria) are fully aware of how P3 and Visa processing procedures will work in conjunction with RSC interviews.
• Ensures DNA kit handling SOPs are supported and in compliance with RSC Africa security policy.
• Completes other duties as necessary to ensure the smooth functioning of Family Reunification procedures for RSC Africa.

Qualifications

US Passport required.

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree or four (4) years of paid work experience in lieu of a Bachelor’s Degree is required.
• Master’s degree preferred.

Experience:

• Five (5) year of paid work experience is required.
• Three (3) months of related experience in casework or resettlement experience is required.
• Previous knowledge of Family Reunification case in the USRAP is preferred.
• Overseas experience in a developing country is preferred.
• Second language an advantage; Somali, French, Amharic, Kinyarwanda, Kiswahili or Arabic preferred.

Knowledge/Skills:

• Through knowledge of the US Refugee Admissions Program and WRAPS database.
• Knowledge of DNA counselling and/or chain of custody principles.
• Strong verbal and written English language skills.
• Demonstrated computer skills, especially Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Meticulous attention to detail.

Abilities:

The Family Reunification Specialist must have the ability to:

• work as part of team in a multi-cultural environment;
• take initiative in formulating procedures and training plans to improve operations;
• ensure policies and procedures are implemented and executed in accordance with guidelines and standard operating procedures;
• deal effectively and courteously with a large number of associates, outside agencies, refugees and members of the general public;
• travel extensively throughout the regions, sometimes on short notice and under difficult conditions;
• travel in sub-Sahara Africa on short notice and under difficult conditions to meet demands of a dynamic operational program;
• maintain a high performance standard with attention to detail;
• communicate effectively both verbally and in writing;
• follow instructions from the Supervisor with a positive and receptive attitude;
• exercise good judgement and seek guidance as appropriate when confronted with unanticipated problems;
• conduct oneself in a professional and courteous manner to represent the best interests of RSC Africa and CWS/IRP;
• carry out all of the duties of the position efficiently and effectively with minimal supervision;
• work independently and contribute to overall operations of RSC Africa;
• take initiative in the development and completion of projects;
• lead others and address issues as they arise;
• maintain strict confidentiality with RSC Africa administrative and operational information;
• manage a large and diverse workload under pressure with competing priorities;
• analyze and solve complex problems and make sound decisions;
• work well as a team in a multi-cultural environment while maintaining a high level of motivation;
• effectively manage RSC Africa’s resources;
• actively participate in the implementation of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP)

Working Conditions

Physical: This position requires bending, squatting, crawling, climbing, kneeling, sitting, standing, walking, pushing/pulling, handling objects (manual dexterity), reaching above shoulder level, using fine finger movements and lifting/carrying heavy loads.

Environmental: Incumbents in this position will be exposed to excessive noise, moving machinery, marked changes in temperature and/or humidity, dust and infectious diseases, harsh weather climates, non-ventilated spaces and working in confined quarters.

Special Requirements

Background check is required before the start of employment. A valid U.S. passport and the ability to maintain a valid U.S. passport throughout the entire appointment is required, which includes having enough passport pages for travel. The candidate should be of good health, willing and able to travel extensively in often difficult conditions, and have a high degree of flexibility. Must be legally eligible to work and obtain a work permit in Kenya. Must have proof of Yellow Fever vaccination before traveling for RSC Africa. Employee will be entrusted with the receipt, custody and payment of money.

Licensing/Certification

None required.

Competencies

Communication

Ensure effective exchanges of information with others. Examples of skills and behaviors include speaking to others respectfully; expressing ideas in a logical, organized way; sharing information appropriately; and clarity and conciseness in written communication.

Relationships

Ensure constructive and supportive interactions with others. Examples of skills and behaviors include being positive and supportive when working with others; sharing information and resources freely; resolving conflict constructively; and proactively working to remove obstacles to success for others.

Job Knowledge

Utilize and apply job related knowledge to complete job tasks at a level that meets or exceeds expectations. Examples of skills and behaviors include utilizing job knowledge to solve problems or develop new approaches; maintaining or enhancing skills through continuing education; and taking on projects that will develop or enhance skills.

Teamwork

Work effectively and contribute as a member of a team. Examples of skills and behaviors include supporting other team members by sharing information; covering the work of others during absences, vacations etc.; and actively participating in developing ideas for ways to increase team effectiveness.

Problem Solving

Analyze information and develop solutions to challenges that arise during the course of performing a job. Examples of skills and behaviors include researching and collecting facts; defining the issues and the parties affected; formulating options/solutions for addressing the problem; and engendering support for and implementing the solution.

Program Planning and Management

Organize work and/or plan projects and ensure timely completion and/or successful implementation. Examples of skills and behaviors include identifying and analyzing program options; identifying the tasks and deliverables required for successful completion; managing one’s time; monitoring the resources involved and ensuring that they are directed most effectively; and working with all involved to ensure successful completion.

Leadership

Guide and direct oneself or other individuals and groups toward a desired outcome. Examples of skills and behaviors include taking the appropriate level of initiative to resolve problems or remove obstacles, bringing individuals together around a common goal; evaluating information and making decisions; navigating conflict and obstacles; and ensuring that communication takes place between all parties involved.

Resource Building and Stewardship

Balance the acquisition or investment of organization resources with responsible use of those resources in line with the organization’s mission. Examples of skills and behaviors include taking advantage of all opportunities to cultivate potential donors; evaluating situations to identify the best use of resources; and making responsible investments of resources that increase organization effectiveness.