Associate Director of Refugee Programs

Location: Connecticut | Compensation: $65,000

Are you looking for a career that’s about more than just a paycheck? At The Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI), your work directly empowers refugees and immigrants to overcome barriers and build thriving lives in their new communities. Join a team where your skills, heart, and leadership make a tangible impact every day.

Why You’ll Love Working at CIRI

• Meaningful Mission: Contribute to an incredible cause—helping refugees and immigrants achieve self-sufficiency and integration into the community. 
• Professional Growth: Be part of a diverse, supportive team that encourages learning, development, and leadership. 
• Community Connection: Build lasting relationships with program participants and your colleagues while making a real difference. 
• Comprehensive Benefits: Competitive salary, medical/dental/vision/life/403B, 13 paid holidays, 20 PTO days per year, and a strong focus on work/life balance and self-care. 
• Student Loan Support: Eligible for the Public Interest Loan Forgiveness Program. 

This organization participates in E-Verify.
 

About the Role

The Associate Director of Refugee Pograms  is a pivotal leader at CIRI, providing strategic and operational support to our Chief Program Officer (CPO) while overseeing core refugee resettlement programs. You’ll ensure high-quality services, supervise program staff, and help coordinate agency-wide initiatives—all while contributing to a mission-driven culture of accountability, collaboration, and impact.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Staff Supervision

• Lead and support refugee resettlement program staff. 
• Ensure programs comply with state, local, and federal regulations. 
• Monitor program performance, outcomes, and service quality. 
• Support staff development, coaching, and accountability. 
• Collaborate with the compliance team to ensure accurate documentation and reporting. 

Program Operations & Coordination

• Strengthen internal systems, workflows, and cross-team communication. 
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and service delivery. 
• Implement new initiatives and coordinate across departments. 
• Plan and participate in CIRI and State quarterly consultation meetings. 

Strategic Support to the Chief Program Officer

• Assist the CPO in planning, prioritizing, and advancing organizational initiatives. 
• Prepare reports and materials for internal and external stakeholders. 
• Track progress on key projects and ensure follow-through on action items. 

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Participate in leadership meetings and organizational planning. 
• Foster a culture of accountability, communication, and collaboration. 
• Support agency-wide priorities as needed. 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s preferred (Social Work, Public Administration, or related field). 
• 3–5+ years of experience in refugee resettlement or human services. 
• Prior supervisory or team leadership experience required. 
• Strong organizational, project management, and strategic thinking skills. 
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities. 
• Experience in fast-paced, mission-driven environments. 

Join the Journey: Empower Lives. Shape Futures. Make your next career move one that truly matters.