Intake Specialist - IDPL (Citizenship)

Intake Specialist - IDPL (Citizenship)

COMPANY DESCRIPTION

Instituto del Progreso Latino is a community organization whose mission is to contribute to the fullest development of Latino(a) immigrants and their families through education, training and employment that fosters participation in the changing U.S. society while preserving cultural identity and dignity.  Founded in 1977 to help Latino’s learn basic skills, pass the civil service exam and obtain higher paying post office jobs, Instituto has grown to a flourishing educational center serving over 14,000 Chicago families per year.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Under the supervision of the Citizenship Coordinator, the intake specialist performs testing and program intake, follows registration procedures, grades screening and registration placement exams, provides program information to the public, organizes paper hardcopy and electronic student and client files, helps to prepare client applications such as the N-400 Citizenship application, performs data entry, fills out program report forms, and performs other administrative and customer service related duties. Tasks are done in the office and at workshops held on the weekend.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Greet clients appropriately and provide program information to clients in person and by telephone
• Schedule clients for appointments, workshops, and registration events
• Provide clients with testing and intake documents and forms, and ensure that they are properly completed
• Process diverse program documents, such as USCIS citizenship applications, IDPL administrative forms, ICCB correspondence, and other funder and agency documents 
• Establish client and student files
• Comply with funder guidelines for portfolio quality and requirements
• Safeguard the content and confidentiality of files
• Enter attendance and demographic information on IDPL database and state software programs, and maintain proper data backup procedures, where applicable
• Make photocopies, faxes, and other program documents in punctual and timely fashion
• Carry out other program related tasks as indicated by supervisor
• Provide information to legal permanent residents in a one on one setting, assist them with filling out applications
• Work collaboratively and cooperatively with other IDPL department and/or partner organizations
• Demonstrate an ability to work in a team with colleagues
• Exhibit professional courtesy in dealing with program participants, colleagues, team members, and the public
• Show enthusiasm to assist students and members of the community
• Attend further professional development as indicated in employee evaluations

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma; some college education preferred
• Two years of previous experience in a citizenship, adult education, or non-profit setting ideal
• Bilingual in Spanish and English preferred
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to maintain a high sense of confidentiality
• Ability to work with a wide variety of people
• Exceptional organization and time management skills
• Above average customer service approach
• Ability to maintain composure under pressure
• Dependability and punctuality
• Advanced skills with Microsoft Office and the Internet

The above is intended to describe the general conditions of and requirements for the performance of this job.  It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities and requirements.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Nature of work requires sitting and standing for long periods of time, speaking during presentations in front of groups, and operating standard business office equipment.   Requires ability to communicate and exchange information, as well as collect, compile and prepare work documents.

WORKING CONDITIONS  

Majority of work performed in an office environment and at community venues (churches, schools) held on weekends.  Position requires availability for extended hours plus non-traditional hours may be required to perform job duties.  Must be able to work weekends.  Also requires participation and attendance at organization sponsored events and meetings.   

BENEFITS

403b retirement saving plan (if working more than 20 hours per week).

PAID TIME OFF

Paid Sick Leave

Paid Leave

Instituto del Progreso Latino is an Equal Opportunity Employer