ABOUT THE POSITION

United African Organization (UAO) is a dynamic coalition of African community-based organizations that promotes social and economic justice, civic participation, and empowerment of African immigrants and refugees in Illinois.

UAO is seeking a full-time Immigration Attorney experienced in practicing in front of USCIS and EOIR. The immigration attorney will provide immigration consultations and representation for individuals seeking immigration benefits before USCIS and EOIR. The attorney will also be responsible for program outreach and development, providing legal consultations and representation before USCIS and EOIR, and developing relationships with key partners in the implementation of the program

JOB DESCRIPTION/RESPONSIBILITIES:

Legal Services and Support

• Assess individuals’ eligibility for immigration benefits at consultations;
• Assist individuals with the completion of the appropriate applications, such as family petitions, consular processing, adjustment of status, U-visa, and VAWA, asylum, and removal defense cases;
• Explain relevant policies and case procedure to individuals;
• Provide legal oversight at workshops when applicable;
• Train non-legal and/or legal workshop volunteers to complete applications when necessary;
• Perform factual and legal research and regularly monitor developments in immigration law and procedure;
• Advocate for clients before USCIS and EOIR;
• Conduct strategic community outreach to promote awareness about UAO programs;
• Conduct community presentations on immigration topics such as “Know Your Rights;
• Develop relationships with organizing partners and explore collaborative opportunities with potential allies
• Other legal services and support as the need arises.

Case Management

• Provide case management of immigration applicants including but not limited to: maintaining client
• files, drafting cover letters, preparing application packets, reviewing case files;
• Collect and maintain program data, and prepare clear and concise reports
• Plan, monitor and evaluate effectiveness of program activities and implement best practices
• Follow up on pending case work and maintain communication with clients via phone, email, or mail
• regarding missing documentation necessary for submission of application;
• Respond to all phone calls and email inquiries on immigration issues in a timely manner.
• Assist in translating immigration materials in appropriate languages to facilitate community understanding;
• Attends required program meetings and training to increase knowledge and skills;
• Assesses community needs and barriers to services, and develops recommendations and solutions;

Administrative Support

• Represent UAO at meetings, conferences, and/or legislative visits when necessary;
• Coordinate logistics for UAO immigration and citizenship events, meetings and relevant activities;
• Collaborate with UAO partners and allies on civic engagement and advocacy activities including trips to Springfield, rallies, press conferences, etc.;
• Participate in on-going immigration trainings and other professional development; and
• Identify, train and develop a network of community advocates and volunteers
• Speak and/or write French at a colloquial skill level in carrying out position duties in conjunction with Francophone African immigrants and refugees is desired;
• Assist with various projects and perform other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

Education

• JD Required
• Written and oral fluency in English/French desired;
• At least 2 years’ experience working in immigration legal services, immigration court experience strongly preferred;

Management

• Possess advanced interpersonal communication skills and passion for social and economic justice, and sensitivity to challenges of the immigrant community;
• Sensitivity to the needs and legal issues affecting people of diverse backgrounds;
• Ability to stay organized, manage a high volume workload, and work under strict deadlines;
• Strong proofreading and detail-oriented research and writing skills;
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from clients and the general public
• Ability to manage and organize multiple tasks simultaneously and independently, often under pressure and in a fast-paced environment;
• Must be proactive, a self-starter with a solution-oriented mindset, and a willingness to take initiative;
• Well organized with high attention to details and deliver accurate work within strict deadlines;
• Ability to manage and prioritize time and responsibilities, including the ability to work independently
• Adapt to change and respond to unexpected issues;
• Ability to maintain confidentiality;

Commitment to service

• Community service experience
• Enthusiastic and positive attitude toward helping others
• Ability to work weekends and evenings when necessary
• Demonstrate ability to work in a culturally diverse environment

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Salary is commensurate with experience
• Invaluable opportunity to make a difference in the lives of African immigrants and refugees

UAO is an equal opportunity employer.

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter and writing sample if (any) here.