Operations Intern (Unpaid)

International Rescue Committee

Location:
New York, NY, USA
Grade:
Intern
Category:
General Staff
Posted Jul 15, 2026Apply by Dec 15, 2026 (113d left)
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The Operations Intern will provide front desk coverage, greet and direct client walk-ins, schedule appointments, answer phone calls, and assist with clerical duties in a culturally sensitive environment. This unpaid internship offers learning opportunities about IRC services, refugee resettlement, and communication skills in a cross-cultural setting.

Responsibilities

  • Perform reception duties such as greeting visitors to the office and connecting them to appropriate staff
  • Assess documentation of visitors to determine eligibility of services
  • Schedule appointments for all programs depending on eligibility of client
  • Answer and direct incoming phone calls
  • Assist staff with clerical and administrative duties
  • Display sensitivity to cultural and personality differences of refugee clients and respect their beliefs and values
  • Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy
  • Communicate effectively in person and by telephone
  • Other related duties as assigned

Requirements

  • Previous administrative experience preferred
  • Strong computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Cultural sensitivity and detail oriented with the proven ability to meet deadlines
  • Ability to effectively communicate and work as a team member in a cross-cultural environment
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English; additional fluency in Arabic, Spanish, Dari, Pashto, French, Ukrainian, Russian, or Kiswahili preferred
  • Willing to learn about IRC history, philosophy, global work, and local efforts
  • Willing to adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies

Skills

  • Administrative Experience
  • MS Word
  • MS Excel
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Cultural Sensitivity
  • Deadline Management
  • Cross-Cultural Communication
  • Client Reception
  • Appointment Scheduling
  • Telephone Handling
  • Clerical Support

Languages

English, Arabic, Spanish, Dari, Pashto, French, Ukrainian, Russian, Kiswahili