Family Reunification Specialist (International) at Church World Service

Primary Purpose

This position is responsible for overseeing the processing of family reunification cases for RSC Africa. The Family Reunification Specialist ensures that RSC Africa’s standard operating procedures for P3 and Follow to Join (FTJ) processing are implemented and adhered to. Additionally, the position oversees the chain of custody procedures for DNA samples.

Supervision

This position directly reports to the Processing Support Manager.

Essential Duties

• Ensures all P3 and FTJ processing procedures adhere to USRAP, USCIS, RPC, and RSC standards and guidelines.
• 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 P3 and FTJ processing, based on guidance from DOS/BPRM and USCIS in coordination with RSC Management.
• Coordinates with Field Processing managers and supervisors to schedule P3 and FTJ 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.
• Serves as technical expert and focal point on P3 and FTJ cases for field processing staff during circuit rides.
• Monitors and conducts case and pipeline management on P3 and FTJ caseloads
• 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, PRM, RPC, USCIS, IOM, UNHCR, Resettlement Agencies and courier companies such as FedEx and DHL in regards to P3 and FJ 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 FTJ case processing
• Consults with RSC Africa Programs management to ensure exceptional case scenarios are processed in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Conducts training to RSC Africa Programs staff (Nairobi, Kasulu, and Pretoria) on P3 and FTJ processing procedures
• 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 related experience in lieu of a Bachelor’s Degree is required.
• Master’s degree preferred.

Experience:

• Five (5) years of work experience required.
• Three (3) months of related experience in casework or resettlement experience is required.
• Previous knowledge of Family Reunification process 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;
• communicate effectively both verbally and in writing;
• follow instructions from the Supervisor with a positive and receptive attitude;
• deal effectively and courteously with a large number of associates, outside agencies, refugees and members of the general public;
• conduct oneself in a professional and courteous manner to represent the best interests of RSC Africa and CWS/IRP;
• maintain a high performance standard with attention to detail;
• 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

A valid US passport and the ability to maintain a valid 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 includes peaking 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 knowledget o 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.