Economic Development Intern – Summer 2026

About the role

The International Rescue Committee is seeking a Summer 2026 Economic Development Intern to support its Economic Empowerment program. The intern will work closely with Employment Specialists and Financial Coaches to help refugees achieve economic self‑sufficiency through career training, financial literacy, and job placement assistance.

Key responsibilities

• Collaborate with IRC Employment Specialists and Financial Coaches to implement the Career Development Program.
• Deliver advanced job‑readiness trainings covering career development, business writing, networking, interview preparation, and financial literacy.
• Provide one‑on‑one counseling, resume and cover‑letter preparation, and job‑application assistance.
• Conduct group and individual trainings aimed at successful workforce integration.
• Accompany clients to job‑preparation activities and interviews, offering interview coaching.
• Assist clients in opening bank accounts, delivering financial‑literacy workshops, and completing loan applications.
• Support clients with new‑hire paperwork, employment documentation, and other administrative tasks.
• Audit program files for compliance and update databases regularly.
• Advocate for clients’ labor‑market rights by providing references and educating employers about hiring IRC clients.

Required profile

• Passionate change‑maker committed to humanitarian impact.
• Solutions‑driven attitude with strong problem‑solving abilities.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to work with interpreters.
• Interest in supporting refugee economic empowerment and workforce integration.

Required skills