Internship Opportunities in Tucson

The IRC’s US offices offer a variety of unpaid internship opportunities throughout the year. Prospective interns should be currently enrolled in an educational institution or within 6 months of graduation and are required to submit an application and resume. For more information, contact VolunteerTucson [at] rescue.org (subject: Volunteering%20in%20Tuscon) .

Internships at the International Rescue Committee in Tucson provide college students and recent graduates with opportunities to gain professional experiences and exposure to different fields. Interns learn to work in a multi-cultural environment, build professional networks within the community, and cultivate adaptability and creativity in a dynamic world.

Internship Process

Application Steps:

This is an unpaid internship but course credit is often available.

Get to know the IRC in Tucson and learn more about how you can be involved. To see a list of current internship openings, please see the position descriptions below. For specific questions, email us at VolunteerTucson [at] rescue.org (subject: Internship%20Info%20Request)
Apply online and be sure to list your top 3 position choices. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Interview with the Volunteer Coordinator and Department Supervisor
Receive offer and accept--conditional on background and reference checks
Clearance checks and criminal history disclosures
Apply for a Level 1 Fingerprint Clearance Card
Volunteer Coordinator will work with you and the supervisor to schedule your first day.
Attend an orientation and training session to learn about office policies, confidentiality, and communication guidelines. You are also expected to make all efforts to participate in ongoing training opportunities.

Commitment

During in-office periods, the IRC expects all interns to work 20-25 hrs/wk for 10 weeks during Summer, and 10-15 hrs/wk for 14 weeks during Fall/Spring (when classes are in-session). All internships take place during business hours (8 am to 5pm Mon-Fri) unless otherwise noted on the position description. More stringent requirements for availability or commitment may be additionally listed for certain roles. Examples: 3 full days, must be available Mondays and Fridays from 10a-3p.

Interns must be at least 18 years of age, be able to pass a criminal history check, and have authorization to work.

Intern Application Deadlines

Summer Interns: March 15th
Fall Interns: July 15th
Spring Interns: November 15th

Additional applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Students seeking to receive college course credit for their internship are advised to apply earlier.

REMOTE WORK TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS:

Interns will be required to use their own technology tools to work on virtual opportunities. IRC is not responsible for any personal device expenses such as personal smartphones, tablets, hotspots, data charges, etc.

All personal devices must:

Be kept current with all operating system updates and security patches,
Use a password or PIN with a minimum of 4 characters to log onto smartphones and tablets and 8 alpha and numeric characters for a Laptop.
Have lock screen set to 10 minutes or less with a password required to unlock the device
Configurations must be set to delete all data or lock after 10 unsuccessful attempts to enter a password or PIN. Lockout period must be no less than 30 minutes.

Additional policy details will be discussed during orientation and training.

MODIFICATIONS DUE TO COVID-19

While we continue to support our Tucson community through this crisis, we are also in a state of variability regarding our summer intern program. Thankfully, we are also very flexible. Please continue to apply as normal through our webpage here, as interviews and initial onboarding for summer interns will be conducted through virtual means, and see the below modifications to our summer intern policy:

Remote Work Period - March 2020 to TBD

Until further notice onboarding, training, and remote work will occur virtually as available, in some cases limited to 5 hrs/wk but may be up to 20 hrs/wk depending on role.

In-office/Field-work Period - TBD

When in-office intern work resumes, it will include further training and field activities; some remote hours may continue.

Contact VolunteerTucson [at] rescue.org (subject: Internship%20Inquiry) for the most recent dates and policies.

Internship Positions

NOTE: The below roles for the FALL 2020 term are now full. Please visit this page in October to see roles available for SPRING 2021.

Cultural Orientation

OVERVIEW:

The IRC in Tucson’s Cultural Orientation Program is designed to provide a holistic and integrated approach to educating refugees during their first week of resettlement in the United States. The Program provides structured trainings to newly arrived refugees and asylees to familiarize them with their new environment and inform them of available services. The Cultural Orientation Intern will support Staff with logistical organization and materials preparation for these training sessions and will actively work with clients to facilitate more thorough absorption and processing of vital information.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Prepare programmatic materials for the Cultural Orientation Program including handouts and laminated activity cards.
Compile necessary materials into individualized client packets.
Assist in Cultural Orientation training activities and drills as directed by CO Instructor.
Assist Staff with transportation of participating clients to and from the IRC office.
Train clients to ride public transportation to and from their homes to the IRC office.
Conduct Tucson Highlights bus tours with newly arrived clients.
Support Cultural Orientation Coordinator in additional tasks as necessary to design, maintain and improve the Cultural Orientation Program.

REQUIREMENTS:

Punctuality, excellent time management skills, and a flexible schedule
Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding client information
Proficiency in foreign language is preferred, but not required
Office experience a plus, but training will be provided
Strong intercultural communication skills; demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from other cultural backgrounds
Driver’s license, personal vehicle, auto insurance, a clean driving record, and willingness to drive clients in personal vehicle
Experience in ESL instruction considered a major asset
Must be available during at least one of either Monday or Friday, 10am-2pm

COMMITMENT:

SUMMER: Minimum 20 hrs/wk for 3 months
FALL/SPRING: Minimum 10 hrs/wk for 4 months
Primary availability during IRC business hours (M-F; 8:30am-5:00pm)
Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment

Apply Now

Employment and Economic Empowerment

OVERVIEW:

The Employment and Economic Empowerment Intern supports Staff in assisting refugee clients secure their first jobs in the United States and guiding them towards successful integration into the American workplace. Interns will gain familiarity in cross-cultural training techniques, skills development and hiring procedures of area businesses.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Provides direct and administrative services to clients in the following areas:
- Resume preparation;
- Online and paper job applications;
- Job Readiness Training (JRT) classroom instruction;
- Client transport to interviews and other post-placement assistance;
- Research job opportunities;
- Client file management;
Skill specific projects as assigned by Program Coordinator.

REQUIREMENTS:

Knowledge of employer expectations, job retention, and job search techniques
Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding client information
Strong verbal and written skills in English
Punctual and reliable
Strong intercultural communication skills; demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from other cultural backgrounds
Driver’s license, personal vehicle, auto insurance, a clean driving record, and willingness to drive clients in personal vehicle

COMMITMENT:

SUMMER: Minimum 20 hrs/wk for 3 months
FALL/SPRING: Minimum 10 hrs/wk for 14 weeks
Primary availability during IRC business hours (M-F; 8:30am-5:00pm)
Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment

Apply Now

Family and Youth Case Management Support

OVERVIEW:

The Family and Youth Intern will help in some of the most vital areas of refugee resettlement work. Interns assist with core services including: applying for and enrolling clients in social service programs and school enrollment, apartment set-up, airport pick-up assistance, and other case management related tasks. Interns will gain experience networking with community service providers and communicating with people of diverse cultural backgrounds.

RESPONSIBILITES:

Prepare apartments for incoming refugee families
Manage client files and track necessary services
Assist Case Managers in enrolling clients to eligible community services
Accompany refugee clients on appointments and interviews with community service providers
Assist supervising Case Manager with intensive cases as they arise
Coordinate with Case Management to ensure services are being received

REQUIREMENTS:

Pursuing a degree in a related field
Punctuality, excellent time management skills, and a flexible schedule
Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding client information
Proficiency in a foreign language is preferred, but not required
Strong intercultural communication skills; demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from other cultural backgrounds
Driver’s license, personal vehicle, auto insurance, a clean driving record, and willingness to drive clients in personal vehicle

COMMITMENT:

SUMMER: Minimum 20 hrs/wk for 3 months
FALL/SPRING: Minimum 10 hrs/wk for 14 weeks
Primary availability during IRC business hours (M-F; 8:30am-5:00pm)
Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment

Apply Now

Health & Medical Advocacy (OFFICE/REMOTE)

OVERVIEW:

Upon arrival to the United States and throughout their first few years, refugees and asylees face numerous hurdles to effectively navigate the US healthcare system and accessing important community health resources. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) works one-on-one with clients to meet each of their unique health needs. Health Advocate Interns play an important role in IRC's mission. The interns work in close coordination with IRC's Medical & Intensive Case Management (ICM) Coordinator as well as with local healthcare providers to coordinate and advocate for the healthcare and preventative health needs of refugee/asylee clients. By arranging appointments, teaching basic preventative health measures, and networking with healthcare providers, the Health Advocate Interns gain valuable experience working with clients and interpreters of diverse cultural backgrounds, hone skills in case noting, gain an understanding of refugees’ acute and chronic health concerns, and develop expertise in navigating the US medical system and Arizona's Medicaid.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Coordinate scheduling, interpretation, and transportation for all new arrivals to establish care with a Primary Care Provider and follow up as necessary
Serve as patient advocate and report follow-up and referrals from providers
Record activities as directed and give timely reports to the Medical & ICM Coordinator
Provide training to clients regarding pharmacy services and understanding how to access prescription and over-the-counter medications
Assist clients to become self-sufficient in accessing transportation to medical appointments by providing trainings and assisting with applications to special transportation services as needed
Work closely with the Medical & ICM Coordinator to assist clients in finding health resources that best meet their needs
Reinforce clients’ understanding of treatment instructions and referral and specialist follow up care
Other duties as assigned

REQUIREMENTS:

Pursuing degree in health sciences or social work or possessing equivalent experience
Strong intercultural communication skills; demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from other cultural backgrounds
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Understanding and ability to maintain strict confidentiality regarding client information

COMMITMENT:

SUMMER: Minimum 25 hrs/wk for 3 months and prefer to commit to 3 full business days
FALL/SPRING: Minimum 15 hrs/wk for 4 months and prefer to commit to 2 full business days
Primary availability during IRC business hours (M-F; 8:30am-5:00pm)
Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment

Apply Now

Health Education (MPH/BPH)

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Collaborate with health and wellness staff to develop or update health education curriculum
Schedule and maintain calendar for health education
Facilitate and lead health education workshops
Coordinate outreach to clients and partner organizations about health education workshops
Maintain client attendance and track clients progress on database (ETO)
Communicate client concerns to IRC staff
Assist in rolling out client satisfaction surveys, compile the results, and provide findings to health and wellness staff

REQUIREMENTS:

Pursuing degree in Public Health
Experience with Health Education and preventive health training
Strong intercultural communication skills; demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from other cultural backgrounds
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Understanding and ability to maintain strict confidentiality regarding client information
Driver’s license, personal vehicle, auto insurance, and clean driving record; willingness to transport clients in personal vehicle

COMMITMENT:

SUMMER: Minimum 20 hrs/wk for 3 months
FALL/SPRING: Minimum 12 hrs/wk for 4 months and and able to commit to blocks of time greater than 3 hours
Primary availability during IRC business hours (M-F; 8:30am-5:00pm)
Preference given to applicants able to make multi-semester commitment

Immigration Services

OVERVIEW:

Immigration Services Interns and Fellows work with the Immigration Program Manager to directly assist clients with the processing and filing of applications for family reunification, lawful permanent residence, affidavits of relationship, and other immigration petitions necessary to receive legal residency in the United States and reunite family members. Interns and Fellows may also contribute to marketing and community education strategies which raise awareness about IRC immigration services.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Set-up and conduct intake and immigration interviews with assistance from an interpreter and immigration staff.
Prepare and complete immigration applications and petitions on behalf of refugees, asylees, and immigrants for submission to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Conduct follow-up, including written and telephone communication with USCIS and respond to requests for further evidence and inquiries.
Maintain case files by copying, faxing, and inputting information in immigration case management database.
Notify clients of USCIS interviews; ensure they have immunization records, photos, and other required documents complete and available for the interview.
Assist the Director to complete Affidavits of Relationship for family reunification; manage case files and client communication.
Conduct community outreach to refugee and immigrant population.
Assist with projects and administrative duties as assigned by the Immigration Program Manager.

REQUIREMENTS:

Strong desire to learn about refugee resettlement and immigration issues
Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding client information.
Proficiency in another language is preferred, but not required
Excellent time management skills, organized and attentive to detail
Strong intercultural communication skills; demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from other cultural background

COMMITMENT:

SUMMER: Minimum 20 hrs/wk for 3 months and prefer to commit to 3 full business days
FALL/SPRING: 10-15 hrs/wk for 4 months and prefer to commit to 2 full business days
Primary availability during IRC business hours (M-F; 8:30am-5:00pm)
Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment

Apply Now

Job Readiness Training

OVERVIEW:

The IRC in Tucson seeks an intern to support our Economic Empowerment Unit by helping clients complete job training classes. Through the Job Readiness Training (JRT) classes, refugees resettled by the IRC in Tucson receive information on finding employment in Tucson, workplace culture in the US, how to apply and interview for jobs, and rights and responsibilities in the workplace. The intern will assist the JRT AmeriCorps with facilitating JRT classes by supporting classroom activities such as mock interviews and filling out applications. Additionally, volunteers may administer the JRT pre/post assessment to clients with the help of an interpreter. JRT class is held Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 1-3pm.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Support the Job Readiness Training AmeriCorps in facilitating JRT curriculum.
Conduct mock interviews and help clients fill out applications.
Administer JRT pre-post assessments with the help of an interpreter.
Complete other tasks as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

Must be comfortable in an English-learner classroom setting; willing to patiently and clearly communicate with limited English speakers.
Must be patient, flexible, and creative.
Experience working with diverse backgrounds preferred.
ESL teaching experience preferred.
Access to reliable personal vehicle preferred but not required.

LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES:

Practice teaching in an English-learner classroom.
Practice languages you may be learning (Kiswahili, Arabic, Kinyarwanda, etc.).
Learn about the refugee resettlement process and how refugees find jobs and achieve economic self-sufficiency.

COMMITMENT:

SUMMER: Minimum 20 hrs/wk for 3 months
FALL/SPRING: Minimum 10 hrs/wk for 14 weeks
Primary availability during IRC business hours (M-F; 8:30am-5:00pm)
Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment

Apply Now

MSW Intensive Case Management (ICM) Case Worker Associate

OVERVIEW:

Upon arrival to the United States and throughout their first few years, refugees and asylees face numerous hurdles to effectively navigate the US healthcare system and accessing important community health resources. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) works one-on-one with clients to meet each of their unique health needs. MSW interns work in close coordination with the Intensive Case Management (ICM) team to address barriers to health and wellness for refugee and asylee clients who include those with serious medical and mental-health conditions, the elderly, LGBTI clients, single mothers, and victims of sexual and gender-based violence enrolled in the ICM program. The MSW Casework Associate will be responsible for providing comprehensive support to ICM clients to address barriers to social determinates of health and barriers towards self-sufficiency. Interns gain valuable experience working with clients and interpreters of diverse cultural backgrounds, hone skills in case noting, gain an understanding of refugees’ acute and chronic health concerns, and develop expertise in navigating the US medical system and Arizona's Medicaid.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Conduct health and wellness client assessments 6 months, and 12 months after ICM enrollment
Develop individualized service plans based on client needs
Map community assets and help make referrals to community partners
Assist in scheduling and accompanying clients to health and wellness appointments as appropriate
Educate clients on U.S. healthcare and social service systems
Input client health and wellness information into IRC’s database
Communicate client concerns with ICM staff and coordinate health and wellness service plan with supervisor
Assist with ensuring proper documentation of services and client case files

REQUIREMENTS:

Pursuing a Masters in Social Work from an accredited university (2nd year candidates given preference)
Strong intercultural communication skills; demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from other cultural backgrounds.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Understanding and ability to maintain strict confidentiality regarding client information.
Driver’s license, personal vehicle, auto insurance, and clean driving record; willingness to transport clients in personal vehicle

COMMITMENT:

20 hrs/wk (12hrs/wk in Fall/Spring) for 1 to 2 semesters and able to commit to full business days
Primary availability during IRC business hours (M-F; 8:30am-5:00pm)
Preference given to applicants able to make multi-semester commitment

Apply Now

Resettlement Assistance

OVERVIEW:

Resettlement is at the heart of the IRC’s work with refugees. Services provided meet refugees’ basic needs for food, shelter and legal rights in the early, critical stages of the long-term resettlement process. All activities lay the foundation for clients to become self-sufficient and contribute positively to their new community. The Resettlement Assistance Intern will support the Resettlement Supervisor in quality assurance of files and service deliveries.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Assist in preparation of file set-up for all newly arrived and enrolled clients
Upload client documents in internal database
Assist in managing direct financial assistance for clients and reconciliation of credit card statements
Assist with service documentation through case-notes and case file maintenance
Conduct quality control of case files to ensure compliance and completion
Administrative and clerical support to staff including filing, copying, and distribution of client documents
Support the Resettlement Supervisor in additional tasks as necessary

REQUIREMENTS:

Punctuality, excellent time management skills, and a flexible schedule
Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities
Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding client information
Excellent organizational and leadership skills
Strong Attention to details
Ability to work with minimal supervision
Office and administration experience a plus, but training will be provided
Strong intercultural communication skills; demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from other cultural backgrounds

BENEFITS:

Develop relationships with all of IRC staff members and clients of different cultural backgrounds
Intern will acquire detailed knowledge of programs (e.g. Matching Grant, Arizona Refugee Resettlement Program, etc.) and public benefits available for refugees during their resettlement period
Intern will learn reporting requirements for resettlement agencies
Intern will gain exposure to case work in the resettlement field.
Professional development and administrative assistant skills

COMMITMENT:

SUMMER: Minimum 20 hrs/wk for 3 months
FALL/SPRING: Minimum 10 hrs/wk for 14 weeks
Primary availability during IRC business hours (M-F; 8:30am-5:00pm)
Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment

Apply Now

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Internship Opportunities in Tucson

On this Page:

Internship Process

Internship Positions

Internship Process

Application Steps:

Commitment

Intern Application Deadlines

REMOTE WORK TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS:

MODIFICATIONS DUE TO COVID-19

Internship Positions

Cultural Orientation

Employment and Economic Empowerment

Family and Youth Case Management Support

Health & Medical Advocacy (OFFICE/REMOTE)

Health Education (MPH/BPH)

Immigration Services

Job Readiness Training

MSW Intensive Case Management (ICM) Case Worker Associate

Resettlement Assistance

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