Immigration Specialist, Higher Education Legal Services Program

About the Role

JFS is seeking a compassionate, mission-driven Immigration Specialist to join our Immigration Legal Services Department. This role offers extensive training in U.S. immigration law and preparation for Department of Justice (DOJ) Accreditation. The Immigration Specialist provides direct support and representation in immigration cases, including assistance with USCIS applications, family-based petitions, naturalization, citizenship services, and other immigration benefits. Working closely with immigration attorneys, DOJ-accredited representatives, and legal support staff, you will help deliver high-quality immigration legal services, advocate for immigrant communities, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals and families across San Diego.

Responsibilities

• Conduct immigration legal screenings for individuals and families scheduled with the Affirmative Services program in person and virtually, as needed
• Provide eligibility and risk assessment for individuals and families seeking immigration representation before the USCIS
• Prepare immigration filings including DACA, naturalization, adjustment of status, family-based, and humanitarian immigration petitions
• Stay up to date on rapidly changing immigration laws and policies
• Manage and coordinate caseload of active cases, monitoring filing deadlines and other relevant dates
• Coordinate and document client communications in our shared database
• Comply with data and program reporting requirements, as well as internal program and departmental policies
• Perform case management and any additional administrative tasks
• Actively participate in required weekly case review sessions with the Affirmative Services team, and collaborate with other programs as needed
• Participate in and present at community workshops, information sessions, and other outreach activities promoted by JFS or AS
• Be flexible and creative; adapt to constant changes in immigration law and policy

Requirements

• Willingness and ability to apply for partial DOJ accreditation within 6 months of starting position
• Commitment to undergo extensive immigration law-focused legal training and complete required bi-annual ethics trainings
• Ability to prioritize, multi-task, and organize in a fast-paced and fluid environment
• Passion for providing culturally competent, trauma-informed, high-quality legal services to noncitizens and newcomers in San Diego County, Imperial County, and the San Diego border region, including Tijuana/Mexicali, Mexico
• Capable of handling complex legal issues on behalf of low-income immigrant populations
• Proficient in Microsoft software including Excel, Word, Outlook, and Adobe
• Familiar and comfortable with the use of Zoom, Teams, and other programs to provide remote/virtual services
• Detail-oriented and self-directed with strong oral and written communication skills in English
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including good communication, listening, and professional attitude
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative and work under pressure
• Ability to work both independently and in a group setting
• Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends when needed
• Valid driver’s license, access to an automobile, insurance, and willingness to drive to off-site locations as needed
• Passion for social justice for immigrants

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual in English/Spanish, Arabic, Farsi, Dari, Pashto, Tagalog, or other language
• Minimum of 1 year in immigration legal services experience; prior experience as a DOJ Accredited Representative, immigration paralegal, or legal assistant is a plus
• Experience working with immigrant populations
• Experience working with marginalized populations and survivors of trauma
• Dedication to serving immigrant communities with a sincere commitment to working on behalf of undocumented immigrants

Physical Requirements

• Evening and weekend work will be required when conducting workshops
• Travel may be required for conferences, outreach meetings, or community events
• Regularly required to sit, talk, and listen
• Frequently needs to stand, walk, use hands and fingers to operate a keyboard, handle documents, and reach for the telephone or other office equipment
• Work environment has a moderate noise level, requiring the ability to concentrate and maintain good auditory perception
• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 25 pounds as needed

Pay

$23 to $30/hourly, depending on experience

Benefits

• Comprehensive, low-cost healthcare coverage for employees
• Generous employer 401(k) contributions
• Employer-covered life insurance
• Paid vacation time and sick leave
• 15 paid holidays, including Federal and Jewish holidays (as long as the holiday lands on a normal scheduled work day), and floating holidays
• 2 Wellness Days to be taken any time during the year to support employees’ mental wellness

Schedule

Full-Time (37.5+ hours/week), Non-Exempt. Work setting is onsite with some evenings and weekends required.

About Jewish Family Service of San Diego

Jewish Family Service of San Diego is a client-centered, impact-driven organization working to build a stronger, more resilient community. For over 100 years, Jewish Family Service has been a trusted resource for the entire community, offering an array of services that are always life-changing, and often life-saving. At Jewish Family Service, we believe our employees are the backbone of our Agency. We strive to ensure that each employee is treated with dignity and respect. Our goal is your success.