Educator and Economic Empowerment Coordinator

The International Institute of Southwest Missouri (IISMO) is seeking a dynamic and versatile Educator and Economic Empowerment Coordinator to support refugee and immigrant clients through educational services and economic empowerment programming. This role combines classroom instruction in cultural orientation, employment readiness, and academic skills with coordination of small business and micro-enterprise initiatives. The ideal candidate is culturally competent, organized, and passionate about fostering academic success, workforce readiness, and economic self-sufficiency for clients.

This position is funded through September 30, 2026

Education & Instruction (40%)

• Deliver culturally competent instruction in cultural orientation, employment readiness, and academic skill-building.

• Assess client learning needs and administer pre- and post-testing as required.

• Prepare and adapt lesson plans and materials to meet diverse needs.

• Provide group and individualized instruction, coordinating with volunteers and staff.

• Train and supervise volunteers assisting with instruction.

• Maintain attendance, lesson plans, and other required documentation.

• Assist with student recruitment and retention strategies.

Economic Empowerment & Microenterprise Support (35%)

• Develop and utilize curricula and tools for refugee and immigrant entrepreneurs.

• Connect clients to community partners for small business support and legal compliance.

• Coordinate workshops on entrepreneurship, vocational skills, and supervisory training.

• Support marketing and visibility for client products (e.g., workshops, markets, consignment shops).

• Recruit and coordinate guest lecturers, trainers, and community partners.

• Build and maintain relationships with financial institutions, service providers, and local businesses.

Reporting & Program Administration (15%)

• Provide regular updates to supervisors and funders.

• Maintain program records and track client outcomes.

• Attend organizational meetings, trainings, and workshops.

• Coordinate activities using platforms such as Microsoft Office, WhatsApp, and Zoom.

Additional Responsibilities (10%)

• Represent IISMO positively in community and partner settings.

• Participate in departmental and organizational meetings and events.

• Perform other duties as needed to ensure program success.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree required.

• Experience in education, workforce development, small business support, or related fields preferred.

Skills & Abilities

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and group facilitation skills.

• Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving abilities.

• Proficiency in Microsoft 365, Zoom; WhatsApp knowledge preferred.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate cultural sensitivity.

• Flexibility to work evenings, in-person, and remotely as needed.

JOIN US

Get ready to make a difference in the lives of refugees every day If you believe that this position matches your requirements, applying for it is a breeze. To apply through our website or to view other job openings, visit

INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SOUTHWEST MISSOURI: OUR STORY

The International Institute of Southwest Missouri (IISMO) opened in Springfield in 2013 as a branch of the International Institute of St. Louis, expanding the organization's century-long mission of welcoming and supporting refugees and immigrants. Since its founding, IISMO has helped resettle more than 860 refugees in the Springfield area, providing critical services such as housing assistance, cultural orientation, English instruction, and employment support. Through partnerships with local organizations, volunteers, and community agencies, IISMO continues to promote successful integration and self-sufficiency for newcomers in Southwest Missouri.

Our Philosophy of Service: We SERVE with integrity, empathy, and respect. We are ACCOUNTABLE to our clients, our community, and ourselves. We CULTIVATE our clients' dignity through choice. We support all aspects of immigrant and refugee journeys from ARRIVING to THRIVING.

The above statements describe the job's essential responsibilities and requirements. This is not an exhaustive list of the duties that may be assigned to job incumbents.

Candidates of diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

EEO/AA