Immigration Legal Services Specialist

I. Position Summary:

The Immigration Legal Services Specialist at LifeWorks Community Action is responsible for providing direct legal representation and assistance to individuals seeking immigration services. This position, accredited by the Department of Justice (DOJ), focuses on delivering high-quality, grant-funded immigration legal services to clients, including but not limited to, change of address, change of venue, EADs, asylum, T-Visa, and U-Visa. The Immigration Legal Services Specialist works under the supervision of Supervising Attorney and Director of Immigrant Services to ensure compliance with legal standards, grant requirements, and ethical guidelines.

Major Duties:

• Conduct intake interviews and assess eligibility for immigration relief under the supervision of the supervising attorney.
• Provide accurate and culturally sensitive legal advice, representation, and assistance to clients in immigration matters.
• Prepare and file immigration applications, petitions, and supporting documentation with appropriate government agencies.
• Maintain accurate and detailed case notes, records, and client files in compliance with legal and grant requirements.
• Stay updated on changes in immigration law, policies, and procedures to provide informed legal advice and representation.
• Assist in community outreach and education efforts to inform immigrant communities about available legal services and rights.
• Collaborate with interpreters, social workers, and other professionals to support comprehensive client services.
• Participate in regular case review meetings and professional development activities as required.
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting of case outcomes and program activities to the Director of Immigrant Services and funders.

II. Performance Requirements:

• Education: DOJ accreditation as a recognized representative or accreditation pending approval, OR Paralegal Certification. Bachelor's degree in Law, Political Science, International Relations, or related field preferred.
• Experience/Job Knowledge: Minimum of 2 years of experience providing direct immigrant services, including legal case management. Knowledge of immigration law and procedures, including familiarity with USCIS forms, EOIR proceedings, and asylum law. Strong written and verbal communication skills in English; bilingual fluency in Spanish or other languages required. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and legal case management software.
• Mental Demands: Ability to work effectively with diverse populations, demonstrating cultural competency and sensitivity. Commitment to social justice, immigrant rights, and advocacy on behalf of vulnerable populations. Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines. Compassionate and empathetic approach to working with clients from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Strong ethical standards and commitment to maintaining confidentiality. Team player with the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and community partners. Flexibility and adaptability to changing circumstances and client needs.
• Physical Demands: Ability to lift, cart, transport and move furniture items, office equipment and various equipment up to 40 pounds. Sitting, walking to and from agency and community activities.
• Supervisory Responsibility: Ability to supervise and coordinate volunteers.
• Working Environment: This position is typically based in an office setting but may require travel to meet with clients, attend meetings, or participate in community events. Evening and weekend work may be required based on programmatic needs and client availability.
• Contacts: Extensive personal and phone contacts with clients, staff, representatives of funding sources, and representatives from other social programs in the community.
• Work Schedule: Must be available during normal weekday business hours and occasional evening or weekends.
• Driving: Must possess a vehicle and have a valid driver’s license to be insurable to operate agency vehicles.
• Background Check: Clear criminal records check is applicable.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $24.00 per hour

Expected hours: 20 – 40 per week

Schedule:

• 4 hour shift
• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Ability to Commute:

• Ballston Spa, NY 12020 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $24