Employment

Job Opportunities at Minnesota Council of Churches

Thank you for your interest in working for the Minnesota Council of Churches.

We are pleased to offer a competitive benefits package, including:

Gold Medical insurance plan
Dental insurance
Life insurance
Long-term disability
Vacation and holiday pay
Employer contributing retirement plan
Flexible Spending Accounts
Free parking

As an Equal Opportunity employer, we hire without consideration to race, creed, color, national origin, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, or disability.

CURRENT JOB OPENINGS

Refugee Specialist: Immigration Legal Services
Refugee Program Specialist: Volunteer and Outreach
Refugee Program Specialist: Resettlement Case Manager
Director of Mankato Refugee Services
Refugee Program Specialist: Community Connector (Spanish)
Human Resource Generalist

POSITION TITLE: Refugee Specialist: Immigration Legal Services

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Regular, 1 FTE, non-exempt

REPORTS TO: Manager of Immigration Legal Services

ORGANIZATIONAL BACKGROUND:

Minnesota Council of Churches (MCC) Refugee Services welcomes refugees, asylees, humanitarian parolees and other new Americans into new lives of freedom, hope and opportunity in Minnesota. Based in Minneapolis and Mankato, MCC Refugee Services has resettled those with refugee status in Minnesota since 1984. Through services providing resettlement, case management, employment, education and immigration legal services, MCC’s multi-cultural, multi-lingual and inclusive staff works to ensure our newest neighbors are “abundantly supported as they move from addressing basic needs to achieving their dreams.”

The Minnesota Council of Churches (MCC) is a statewide council with 27 member denominations from Historical Black, Native American, Mainline Protestant, Pentecostal, and Orthodox communions. The Council’s program areas include refugee resettlement and services, strengthening interfaith relationships, and racial justice. The broader mission of MCC is to build unity through justice for the common good. The staff at MCC reflects the broad diversity of Minnesota.

PURPOSE OF POSITION:

To deliver immigration legal services for refugees and others with a humanitarian protection status, perform outreach to communities to advise on opportunities to file for adjustment and family reunification, and perform administrative tasks related to filing, tracking and reporting on immigration applications. This position will receive training to attain Department of Justice partial accreditation to perform immigration legal services and represent clients before the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

This position operates within the broader Refugee Services team, and will support work in resettlement, education, health and employment programming when appropriate or needed. Position reports to the Manager of Immigration Services.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Immigration Legal Services Responsibilities

Provide one-on-one assistance to clients to complete USCIS and refugee sponsorship applications
Correspond with clients regarding application requirements, and schedule appointments
Complete service contracts with clients, and maintain complete and accurate records and progress until processing for each application complete.
Conduct client intake procedures.
Respond to client questions and inquiries
Advocate on behalf of clients, as appropriate
Maintain USCIS notices and enter client information into MCC and state databases.
Provide consultation to Refugee Services’ staff on immigration related matters.
Collect and track income from fee for service activities
Maintain and participate in development of systems and procedures to increase capacity to provide increased immigration related services.
Develop and maintain relationships with community partners through recruitment activities, and expansion of off-site delivery of immigration services.
Maintain relationships with organizational partners, for consultation, cross-referrals, and program accountability.
Represent Minnesota Council of Churches Refugee Services’ program at community meetings, workshops, and trainings related to immigration law and practice.
Keep current with changes and trends in immigration law and practice and modify services appropriately
Attain and maintain status as a DOJ partially accredited representative.
Support immigration services provided in both MCC’s Minneapolis and Mankato programs.

General Refugee Specialist Responsibilities

Conduct intake and assessments to determine client eligibility for programs.
Work closely with MCC colleagues to ensure that refugees are integrated into the broader array of services available in the organization
Meet outcome goals defined in contract (s) related to four lines of service.
Document all contacts and services in case files, as appropriate
Oversee volunteer and intern activities, as appropriate.
Assist in emergencies as they arise
Other duties as assigned

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience working with refugees or recent immigrants
Commitment to early self-sufficiency of refugees
Demonstrated Ability to maintain detailed records and submit accurate reports in a timely manner.
Strong English language communication skills, both oral and written.
Demonstrated strong communication, negotiation, and mediation skills.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a member of a team.
Proven ability to use basic office equipment including copiers, postage machines, fax machines, and database software.
Proficiency in computer applications, including Outlook, MS Teams, databases, spreadsheets, and MS Word.
Demonstrated detail orientation
Bachelor’s degree preferred
Bilingual language proficiency preferred
Drivers license and access to vehicle
Ability to travel to locations throughout the metro, and to Mankato (up to 1-2 times per month)

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND CONDITIONS:

Normal office conditions. This position works out of MCC’s office at 122 West Franklin Avenue in Minneapolis. Job duties are performed during the weekday business hours.

Compensation: Starting range: $21-22/hour. This is a non-exempt, 40-hour/week position. Benefits include medical insurance, dental, life, retirement, sick leave, vacation, and holiday benefits as provided by MCC human resources policy.

POSITION TITLE: Refugee Program Specialist: Volunteer and Outreach

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Regular, 1 FTE, non-exempt

REPORTS TO: Director of Refugee Services

ORGANIZATIONAL BACKGROUND:

PURPOSE OF POSITION:

MCC Refugee Services is seeking a dynamic and resourceful individual to engage and coordinate volunteers, churches, and community groups to serve refugees; to perform outreach to build resources and create a welcoming and inclusive community; and to participate in coordination of services and resources for clients. In collaboration with MCC staff, volunteers, churches and community partners, the Volunteer and Outreach Specialist will also provide services to refugees and asylees which will help them achieve self-sufficiency and attain their goals.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

In coordination with the MCC Refugee Services outreach team, Director of Refugee Services, and program managers, the Volunteer and Outreach Specialist will:

Facilitate volunteer recruitment, placement, supervision, and support
Facilitate outreach and engagement activities to individuals, groups, and congregations
Train and support congregations and community groups to assist, befriend, and support newly arriving families as they build self-sufficiency through our church co-sponsorship model
Participate in Refugee Services communications work, including writing and preparing content for social media posts, email newsletter, website and blog content, and print communication efforts, in collaboration with Refugee Services Director
Develop, manage, and track in-kind material donations and financial support for clients and programs
Facilitate Refugee Speakers Bureau trainings, providing opportunity for newcomers to share their personal stories
Participate in agency and community advocacy in support of refugee resettlement and our community’s welcome of refugees
Participate in and strategize outreach efforts to landlords, clinics, organizations, and other community services
Attend community meetings, events, professional groups, and speaking engagements to educate the community about refugees and recruit supporters
Provide ongoing cultural orientation and cross-cultural community support to volunteers and program participants
Maintain positive relationships with community partners relevant to program activities
Participate in community and statewide workgroups to promote community engagement and refugee integration
Partner in interfaith and ecumenical efforts across MCC

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITES, as a member of the Refugee Services Team:

Collaborate with Refugee Services team members to meet outcome goals defined in program contracts, including:

Encourage early self-sufficiency and independence of all program participants;
Promote MCC Refugee Services Programs and recruit participants to meet enrollment goals;
Connect program participants and community members to available programs and resources;
Provide translation and interpretation support for other Refugee Services projects, as needed;
Document all contacts and services in case files, as appropriate;
Assist in emergencies as they arise;
Other duties as assigned.

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS:

Strong desire and ability to build resources and engage community to build a welcoming community for refugees and immigrants
Professional demeanor with ability to effectively engage groups and build positive community relationships
Experience working with refugees or recent immigrants
Knowledge of local refugee and immigrant populations, the resources available to them, and the state and federal policies that impact them
Demonstrated understanding of American culture and ability to interpret cultural differences
Commitment to early self-sufficiency of refugees
Strong presentation skills
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across organizational boundaries
Demonstrated ability to maintain detailed records and submit accurate reports in a timely manner
Strong English language communication skills, both oral and written
Demonstrated strong communication, negotiation, and mediation skills
Proven capacity to work in fast paced social service environment
Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as a member of a team
Bilingual proficiency in a relevant language valued but not required
Bachelor’s degree strongly preferred
Experience with Microsoft Office and social media required. Website maintenance knowledge preferred
Proven ability to use basic office equipment including copiers, postage machines, and fax machines
Driver’s license and access to reliable transportation required
Flexibility to work varied weekday, weekend and evening hours

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND CONDITIONS

Normal office conditions. This position works out of MCC’s office at 122 West Franklin Avenue in Minneapolis. Job duties are performed during varied weekday, weekend and evening hours.

POSITION TITLE: Refugee Program Specialist: Resettlement Case Manager

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Regular, 1 FTE, non-exempt

REPORTS TO: Manager of Resettlement Services

ORGANIZATIONAL BACKGROUND:

The Council is a statewide council with 27 member denominations from Historical Black, Native American, Mainline Protestant, Pentecostal, and Orthodox communions. The Council’s program areas include refugee resettlement and services, strengthening interfaith relationships, and racial justice. The broader mission of MCC is to build unity through justice for the common good. The staff at MCC reflects the broad diversity of Minnesota.

PURPOSE OF POSITION:

This exciting position plays an important role in welcoming and serving the needs of individuals arriving to Minnesota with refugee, SIV and humanitarian parolee status. This position functions primarily within the Reception and Placement program of MCC, working directly with individuals during their initial months in the country to provide and coordinate services which promote self-sufficiency and help participants achieve their goals, following guidelines of Minnesota Council of Churches Refugee Services programs and contracts.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Encourage self-sufficiency and independence of newly arriving individuals and families with refugee status
Develop service plans with program participants, empowering them to reach agreed-upon goals and meet program guidelines.
Assist clients with applications for social security cards, public assistance, schools, ESL programs, and other community services
Connect clients to employment programs, basic needs resources, and ongoing community supports
Participate in cultural and community orientations with program participants
Work closely with MCC colleagues to ensure that refugees are integrated into the broader array of services available in the organization
Work with colleagues to secure housing and set up apartments with required furniture items
Welcome arriving families at the airport
Conduct intake and assessments
Provide translation and interpretation support for Refugee Services projects, as needed
Maintain positive relationships with community partners relevant to program activities
Submit regular reports to track client outcomes, fulfill reporting requirements, and capture client success stories
Document services in case logs and maintain up-to-date case files
Oversee volunteer activities within program and with clients
Assist in emergencies as they arise
Other duties as assigned

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience working with refugees or recent immigrants
Case management experience focusing on attainment of outcomes in areas of housing, employment, education, family functioning, or immigration preferred.
Knowledge of local refugee and immigrant populations, the resources available to them, and the state and federal policies that impact them.
Demonstrated understanding of American culture and ability to interpret cultural differences.
Commitment to early self-sufficiency of refugees, asylees and immigrants
Strong motivational and teaching skills.
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across organizational boundaries.
Demonstrated ability to maintain detailed records and submit accurate reports in a timely manner.
Strong English language communication skills, both oral and written.
Demonstrated strong communication, negotiation, and mediation skills.
Proven ability to work in crisis situations.
Proven capacity to work in fast paced social service environment.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a member of a team.
Bilingual proficiency in Arabic, Dari, Karen, Oromo, Pashto, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Swahili, Ukrainian or other relevant languages preferred.
Bachelor’s degree or related work experience strongly preferred
Experience with Microsoft Word, Microsoft Outlook preferred. Proven ability to use basic office equipment including copiers, postage machines, and fax machines
Driver’s license and access to reliable transportation required.
Availability to work occasional weekend or evening hours

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND CONDITIONS: Normal office conditions and regular office hours, Monday-Friday, with occasional weekend and evening hours. This position works out of the MCC’s office at 122 West Franklin Avenue in Minneapolis, with regular visits to service providers and participants’ homes.

COMPENSATION: Starts at $21/hr. This is a non-exempt, 40-hour/week position. Benefits include medical insurance, dental, life, retirement, sick leave, vacation, and holiday benefits as provided by MCC human resources policy.

TITLE: Director, Mankato Area Refugee Services

Employment Status: Full Time, 1.0 FTE, Regular, exempt

Reports To: Division Director, Refugee Services

ORGANIZATIONAL BACKGROUND:

PURPOSE: The Director leads, manages and supervises the work of the Minnesota Council of Churches (MCC) Mankato Area Refugee Services Office and is a key part of the MCC Refugee Services Management Team. The position oversees the development of programs at MCC Mankato, and oversees the day-to-day implementation and evaluation of the programs and projects. The Director supervises staff who provide direct client services, creates and nurtures community partnerships, and carries out program, finance and office management functions. The Director is an important community leader in promoting the welcome and inclusion of refugees and immigrants in the Greater Mankato area; the position represents MCC and its programs in outside coalitions and groups, and may be called up to speak on behalf of the MCC and the program.

RESPONSIBILITES:

PROGRAM MANAGEMENT

Work with the Division Director, MCC staff and key stakeholders to develop and implement programs
Monitor and assess program impact and outcomes, ensure the achievement of contracted program goals, and identify opportunities for continuous improvement, through tools including case file reviews and program audits
Ensure accurate recording, tracking and reporting on program participants, outcomes and finances.
Manage and develop structures which encourage early self-sufficiency of all program participants.
Coordinate and oversee Mankato office and staffing logistics

STAFF SUPERVISION

Manage and supervise work of program staff, interns, subcontractors, and partners to ensure high quality services, accurate record-keeping, and achievement of project deliverables.
Coordinate and facilitate orientation, training and professional development opportunities for staff, interns and volunteers
Provide case consultation and technical assistance to program staff, ensuring clients are integrated into the array of services available in the organization.
Oversee volunteer and intern activities

RELATIONSHIPS AND NETWORKS

Develop and maintain relationships with key constituencies including refugee communities, congregations, community leaders, other social service providers, and public officials.
Participate in the writing of grant proposals, drafting program reports for funders, and identifying programmatic possibilities, with focus on ensuring strong relationships to local partners and funders.
Conduct presentations to public and community stakeholders.
Represent MCC Refugee Services at community meetings, workshops, and trainings.
Promote the work of MCC to the media, private foundations, local and state government, through social media, and with potential program participants.

DIRECT SERVICE COVERAGE

Provide coverage of direct client services as needed, including:
- Conducting intake and assessment to determine eligibility and client needs;
- Making appropriate and meaningful referrals to meet client needs;
- Encouraging early self-sufficiency and independence to all program participants;

OTHER

Participate as an active member in MCC’s Senior Leadership Team;
Participate as a resource to MCC Refugee Services staff in the Metro and elsewhere in Minnesota.
Address emergencies as they arise
Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

At least 5 years professional experience working to attain client or project goals
- Preferred experience in refugee-serving programs focused on attainment of outcomes in areas of education, housing, family functioning, and employment services.
Preferred minimum of 3 or more years of program management, leadership or other supervisory experience in a human service or related setting.
Experience working with and extensive knowledge of challenges and opportunities of local refugee and immigrant populations
Significant professional project coordination experience
- Prefer coordination experience working in a multi-agency collaborative setting.
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across organizational boundaries and with diverse partners
Previous project or staff supervisory experience, with strong interpersonal, motivational and teaching skills.
Strong organizational and project planning skills
Demonstrated ability to interpret and negotiate cultural differences.
Commitment to early self-sufficiency of refugees
Demonstrated ability to maintain detailed records and submit accurate reports in a timely manner.
Strong English language communication skills, both oral and written.
Demonstrated strong communication, negotiation, and mediation skills.
Familiarity with and sensitivity to the constituency of MCC, including those from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds
Proven ability to work in crisis situations and/or a fast paced social service environment.
Experience with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook). Proven ability to use basic office equipment including copiers, postage machines, and fax machines
High level of organization and time management
Demonstrated leadership skills
Bachelor’s degree required
Bilingual proficiency in a relevant language preferred.
Preferred experience in grant writing and reporting, and/or other aspects of fund development.
Able to travel independently throughout the greater Mankato area, to the Twin Cities, and other parts of Southern Minnesota as needed; driver’s license required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND CONDITIONS

Normal office conditions. This position works out of MCC’s Mankato office at 501 S. 2^nd St, Mankato, MN. Most job duties are performed during the weekday business hours, with occasional weekend or evening hours.

COMPENSATION: This is a full-time, exempt, regular position. Benefits include medical insurance, dental, life, retirement, sick and safe leave, vacation, and holiday benefits as provided by MCC human resources policy. Starting salary of $65,000-$70,000.

POSITION TITLE: Refugee Program Specialist: Community Connector

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Regular, 1 FTE, non-exempt

REPORTS TO: Manager of Extended Services or Director of Refugee Services

ORGANIZATIONAL BACKGROUND:

PURPOSE OF POSITION:

To provide direct services to program participants - including refugees, humanitarian parolees, and asylees - in coordination with other Refugee Services staff. This position connects program participants with resources and services both within MCC and in the community, provides language interpretation and cultural support, and performs program tasks including assistance with transportation, application assistance, file maintenance, documentation of services, home visits, and apartment set ups. The position works in coordination with staff and volunteers across MCC programs to help participants meet their basic needs, connect to services and become self-sufficient.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Provide direct assistance to clients based on program goals and client goal plans in coordination with Refugee Services staff, including case managers, employment counselors, and education specialists.
Work closely with MCC colleagues to ensure that refugees are integrated into the broader array of services available in the organization.
In cooperation with case managers and other program staff, meet outcome goals defined in contract (s) related to lines of service. Including the following:
- Provide direct assistance to clients
- Conduct intakes, assessments and other contract activities with clients
- Assist with filing forms for clients
- Respond to client questions and counsel clients on resources and community
- Provide education and awareness on important topics
- Connect clients to employment programs, basic needs resources, and ongoing community supports
- Complete reports, as directed
Document all contacts and services in case files, as appropriate
Provide ongoing cultural orientation to program participants
Serve as cultural liaison for new arrivals
Oversee volunteer activities, as appropriate.
Provide translation and interpretation support for other Refugee Services projects and staff, as needed and available.
Maintain positive relationships with community partners relevant to program activities.
Assist in emergencies as they arise
Other duties as assigned

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS:

Required fluency in Spanish
Experience working with refugees and/or recent immigrants
Demonstrated ability understand and work across cultures
Commitment to early self-sufficiency of refugees
Demonstrated ability to maintain detailed records and submit accurate reports in a timely manner.
Strong English language communication skills, both oral and written.
Demonstrated understanding of American culture and ability to interpret cultural differences.
Demonstrated strong communication, negotiation, and mediation skills.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a member of a team.
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across organizational boundaries.
Proven capacity to work in fast paced social service environment
Experience with Microsoft Office and Microsoft Outlook preferred. Proven ability to use basic office equipment including copiers, postage machines, and fax machines
Demonstrated detail orientation
Bachelor’s degree or related work experience preferred
Driver’s license and access to vehicle

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND CONDITIONS:Normal office conditions and regular office hours, Monday-Friday, with occasional weekend and evening hours. This position works out of the MCC’s office at 122 W Franklin Ave in Minneapolis, with offsite meetings held at locations throughout the Twin Cities.

COMPENSATION: This is a full-time, non-exempt position. Benefits include medical insurance, dental, life, retirement, sick leave, vacation, and holiday benefits as provided by MCC human resources policy. Starting wage: $21/hour

JOB DESCRIPTION: Minnesota Council of Churches Human Resource Generalist

POSITION TITLE: Human Resource Generalist

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-time, Regular, Exempt

REPORTS TO: Human Resources Manager

ORGANIZATIONAL BACKGROUND:

Job Summary:

The Human Resource Generalist will run the daily functions of the Human Resource (HR) department including hiring and interviewing staff, administering pay, benefits, and leave, and enforcing company policies and practices.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Recruits, interviews, and facilitates the hiring of qualified job applicants for open positions; collaborates with departmental managers to understand skills and competencies required for openings.
Conducts or acquires background checks and employee eligibility verifications.
Implements new hire orientation and employee recognition programs.
Performs routine tasks required to administer and execute human resource programs including but not limited to compensation, benefits, and leave; disciplinary matters; disputes and investigations; performance and talent management; productivity, recognition, and morale; occupational health and safety; and training and development.
Handles employment-related inquiries from applicants, employees, and supervisors, referring complex and/or sensitive matters to the appropriate staff.
Attends and participates in employee disciplinary meetings, terminations, and investigations.
Maintains compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, and recommended best practices; reviews policies and practices to maintain compliance.
Maintains knowledge of trends, best practices, regulatory changes, and new technologies in human resources, talent management, and employment law.
Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
Thorough knowledge of employment-related laws and regulations.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business Administration, or related field required.
At least two year of human resource management experience preferred.

Physical Requirements:

Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Must be able to lift 15 pounds at time.
Must be able to access and navigate each department at the organization’s sites in Minneapolis and Mankato

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND CONDITIONS: Normal office conditions and regular office hours, Monday-Friday, with occasional weekend and evening hours. This position works out of the MCC’s office at 122 West Franklin Avenue in Minneapolis, with occasional offsite meetings throughout the Twin Cities.

COMPENSATION: This is a full-time, exempt position. Benefits include medical insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, retirement, sick leave, vacation, and holiday benefits as provided by MCC human resources policy. Starting pay: 60,000-65,000 for more information please contact Valerie Martinez – Human Resources Manager at Valerie.Martinez@mnchurches,org