DOJ Accredited Representative

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The DOJ Accredited Representative at HIAS Pennsylvania assists in the provision of legal services for immigrants in both affirmative and defensive (removal defense) applications. This DOJ Accredited Representative will assist or represent noncitizens (depending upon accreditation status) in removal proceedings as well as affirmative applications for immigration relief before USCIS, including humanitarian relief such as asylum, Special Immigrant Juvenile Petitions; U and T visas; DACA petitions; family-based immigration; and naturalization applications. The agency represents both non-detained as well as detained individuals. The DOJ Accredited Representative will also assist with the provision of various forms of non-direct representation and other essential legal services. This work includes, but is not limited to, training and educating immigrants and immigrant serving organizations as well as assisting in pro-se and limited representation models. The balance of case types and area of focus will depend upon the needs of the agency and the communities we serve.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Direct Representation:

• Assist in or prepare, review and file applications, legal briefs, and supporting documentation for cases including but not limited to asylum and related forms of relief, cancellation of removal, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, U/T visas, VAWA, adjustment of status, naturalization and other applications for relief;
• Assist in or provide direct representation to individuals (both detained and non-detained) in removal proceedings before the immigration court and Board of Immigration Appeals;
• Conduct telephonic and/or in-person intakes and consultations, attend and contribute to regular case rounds discussions, and work with colleagues to assess cases for possible representation and referrals;

• Conduct legal orientations and know-your-rights presentations to community members;
• Present to community-based organizations and other stakeholders on immigration law and policy;
• Occasional work on night and weekend hours. Travel may be required. Travel reimbursements apply.

• Participate in local, regional and nationwide collaborations on policy initiatives, funding, and litigation efforts;
• Assist in determining appropriate case stories for use in reports, advocacy materials, and public education;

• Assist with HIAS PA’s efforts to recruit, train and mentor pro bono attorneys;
• Participate in HIAS PA’s legal clinics;

• Perform administrative tasks related to grant reporting such as timekeeping, tracking trainings and other duties in a timely manner;
• Establish, organize and maintain files up to date;
• Work collaboratively with other staff;
• Perform other tasks and responsibilities assigned by supervisory staff depending upon HIAS PA’s needs.

Emotional demands: While performing duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to discuss topics including, but not limited to, discrimination; child abuse; domestic violence; sexual assault; violence and psychological trauma. HIAS PA will provide information about available resources and training for Employees related to the emotional demands of the role, and provide such resources and training directly as operationally possible.

• Bachelor's degree (strongly preferred) or equivalent combination of education and work experience required

• Experience working with refugees, asylees and other immigrant populations (strongly preferred)

• High proficiency in a foreign language strongly preferred (with an emphasis on Spanish, French, Arabic, Chinese or Vietnamese)

• Willingness to become a DOJ accredited representative (partial or full)

• Demonstrated commitment to working with a public interest organization preferred

• Prior experience working with trauma survivors or other vulnerable populations preferred

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Excellent organizational and time management skills and ability to pay close attention to detail

• Ability to communicate effectively and build mutually respectful relationships with co-workers, clients, and the public.

• Proficiency in web-based software, Microsoft Office applications, database management and peer-to-peer communication platforms; Familiarity with G-suite tools.

Other Information: HIAS Pennsylvania is currently working on a hybrid work model. HIAS Pennsylvania requires all staff to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, with the exception of those who have approved medical or religious belief exemptions. 

Why Join the HIAS PA Team? 

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience

• Exempt position with a 35-hour workweek

• Employment package includes company-paid comprehensive health insurance coverage

• 403(b) Retirement account with employer contribution

• Generous Time Off including Vacation, PTO, & Paid Holidays

• Company-paid life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance 

HIAS Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital, veteran or disability status, political affiliation, or beliefs. We believe that diversity enriches our organization and helps us to fulfill our mission. All qualified applicants, including those who represent minority and marginalized groups, are strongly encouraged to apply.