Job Description
POSITION: Bilingual Community Outreach Specialist (Amharic)
OFFICE: Mayor’s Office on African Affairs (MOAA)
OPEN: September 9, 2024
CLOSED: Open until filled
GRADE: Career Service, Grade 11 (CS-11)
SALARY: $73,677
Current District of Columbia residents will receive priority and advanced preference for screening and interviews. background
The Mayor’s Office on African Affairs (MOAA) ensures that the full range of services and resources are accessible to the District’s African community. It serves as the liaison between the District’s African community, District government agencies, and the Mayor to improve the quality of life of the District’s diverse African born constituencies living in the District. To learn more about MOAA, please visit here:
This position supports MOAA in advancing the District of Columbia’s strategic plan and enhancing the quality of life for African residents, with a specific focus on the Amharic-speaking community.
Major duties
- Serve as the primary liaison between MOAA and the Amharic-speaking community in the District.
- Engage with the Amharic-speaking community to understand their unique characteristics, needs, and challenges.
- Research and analyze the demographics, cultural dynamics, and economic landscape of the Amharic-speaking community.
- Attend community events, trade shows, and forums to connect with community leaders, entrepreneurs, and potential partners.
- Establish and maintain relationships with local organizations, chambers of commerce, and government entities supporting the Amharic-speaking community.
- Support the Director in identifying and assessing growth opportunities aligned with the strengths and aspirations of the Amharic-speaking community.
- Draft talking points and conduct market research to identify emerging sectors, trends, and potential market gaps within the Amharic-speaking community.
- Assist the Director in exploring partnerships with educational institutions, business incubators, and accelerators to foster entrepreneurship and skill development.
- Manage business inquiries and maintain relevant data for the office.
- Develop and organize workshops and programs to bridge gaps within the Amharic-speaking community and link businesses with services and resources.
- Collaborate on initiatives such as mentorship programs, business development workshops, and access to funding.
- Create a comprehensive database of resources, including funding opportunities, training programs, legal and regulatory guidance, and marketing support.
- Partner with local media outlets and community organizations to highlight success stories and contributions of the Amharic-speaking community, promoting positive narratives and changing perceptions.
- Provide bi-weekly updates to the Director regarding the progress and needs of the Amharic-speaking community.
- Attend meetings and events as directed by the Director or Director of Operation, working evenings and weekends as needed for community events and meetings.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
COMPETENCIES, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in both Amharic and English.
- Knowledge of local government operations and policies preferred.
- Relevant experience in outreach, community engagement, or similar roles. Previous work with diverse populations or in non-profit organizations can be advantageous.
- Understanding of Ethiopian culture and the ability to effectively engage with Amharic-speaking communities.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks, plan outreach activities, and coordinate with other team members.
- Proficiency with outreach tools and technologies, such as social media, and data management.
- Strong skills in identifying community needs and developing strategies to address them.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Fluency in Amharic and strong communication skills in English.
- A bachelor’s degree in communications, social sciences, or a related field is often preferred.
- Commitment to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion within the African diaspora and broader community.
Work environment
The work is performed primarily in-person in an office setting. Times in the field are permitted when there is a related event.
SPECIAL NOTE - SECURITY SENSITIVE This position is deemed security sensitive. The incumbent of this position will be subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC Personnel Regulations, Suitability – Security Sensitive.
If you are interested in this role, please upload your resume and answer the questionnaire. Only the candidates deemed most suited for the position based on resume will receive a call to schedule further discussion.
Job Tags
Full time, Local area, Weekend work, Afternoon shift,