What are the responsibilities and job description for the Immigration Specialist position at Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago?
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago partners with mission-driven people and organizations across Cook and Lake counties to witness a message of mercy and hope to a world in need by improving lives and nourishing spirits; strengthening and empowering people, families, and communities; and committing to being present to our times through the eyes of faith.
Role Overview
The Immigration Specialist provides immigration legal services including advising clients, preparing cases, communicating with federal agencies, and ensuring compliance for matters such as family reunification, naturalization, VAWA, and U visas.
Job Responsibilities
- Provide legal advice to clients regarding immigration matters, including Family Reunification, Naturalization, Violence Against Women Act VAWA, and U Visas. Represent clients before the DHS U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Chicago District office, U.S. Consulates and Embassies
- Prepare immigration forms in accordance with U.S. immigration laws and regulations, assist clients in gathering supporting documentation, and support them in drafting and completing personal declarations. Research and analyze updates in immigration laws, regulations, and court rulings to ensure accurate and current service delivery.
- Communicate with USCIS district offices, U.S. consulates, embassies, and other Department of Homeland Security agencies to inquire about individual cases. Conduct research on immigration laws, regulations, and court rulings, and collaborate with other immigration practitioners on complex cases and client referrals. Develop and maintain strong relationships with immigration service providers, faith-based organizations, and other external stakeholders to support coordinated service delivery. Maintain strict confidentiality of client information in accordance with CCAC's programmatic policies, professional standards, and all applicable regulatory and funding requirements. Ensure client files are accurate and compliant by updating documentation immediately following the delivery of services.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders as needed.
- Engage in ongoing learning, training, and skill development, seeking and applying feedback to continuously improve performance and contribute to team and organizational success.
PLEASE NOTE: Essential functions include all other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
- Kneel and move from sitting, bending, kneeling, or standing multiple times a day
- Climb up and down up to 3 flights of stairs at a time
- Lift, push, and pull up to 10 lbs
Other Requirements: Comply with program and/or requirements related to:
- Background check
Education and Experience Requirements:
Minimum
- Bachelor's Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS) in a related field of study 1-3 years relevant experience
- Spanish Fluency (written and spoken)
- Prior experience as a Paralegal or within social services.
- Strong communication and computer literacy to manage and maintain up to date case records.
Preferred
- Master's degree in a related field of study 3-5 years relevant experience