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NIJC has a new Chicago address at 111 W. Jackson Blvd, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60604 and a new email domain at @immigrantjustice.org.

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Open positions at the National Immigrant Justice Center: 

 

Senior Attorney and Supervisor Positions:

Senior Attorney- Asylum Project

 

Staff Attorney Positions:

Staff Attorney - Asylum Project

Staff Attorney - Immigrant Children's Protection Project 

Staff Attorney- Immigration Court Helpdesk

Staff Attorney- Recent Arrivals

 

Coordinator Positions:

Pro Bono Coordinator- Immigrant Legal Defense Project

 

Paralegal Positions:

Paralegal- Asylum Project

Paralegal- Immigrant Children's Protection Project- Indianapolis

Paralegal- Immigrant Legal Defense Project

Paralegal- Recent Arrivals

 

Internships & Fellowships:

Internships

Schreiber Fellowship Program

 

 

Senior Attorney- Asylum Project

The senior attorney will provide legal services and representation to asylum seekers seeking protection before U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the immigration courts. The attorney should be proficient in a language other than English and must have experience working with asylum seekers.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:  

  • Conducts preliminary intake interview, gathers all relevant facts for presentation at Unit meetings.  Makes assessment of income eligibility and makes appropriate referrals for those individuals not eligible for Organization services.  Recommends exceptions to financial guidelines to the Supervisor.
  • Develops and implements complex case strategies in consultation with supervisor.
  • Prepares cases for interview or hearing, including drafting legal papers, conducting client advocacy, presenting evidence, etc. in accord with the Code of Professional Responsibility for the legal profession.
  • Carries a volume of work as required by the department. Has in-depth knowledge of legal and other resources. 
  • Remains current on immigration law, policies and procedures. Remains current on implications of criminal and civil law as it applies to the representation of immigrants.
  • Develops and maintains professional relationships with EOIR, DHS, U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS), government and social service organizations and community organizations as necessary.  Interprets immigration and department policies and programs to the public, including public speaking. 
  • Refers clients for necessary social and/or economic assistance when determined to be necessary.
  • In accord with the ethical standards required of the legal profession, the Code of Professional Responsibility, preserves client confidentiality, accounts for client monies and avoids conflict of interest.
  • Maintains complete and accurate client records.  Prepares timely statistical reports.  Conducts quarterly case audits for presentation and review of the Supervisor. 
  • Participates in training on immigration procedures as assigned by the Supervisor.  May conduct training sessions as assigned by the Supervisor.
  • Identifies trends and recurring legal and social concerns.  Recommends strategies for solutions and other needed advocacy.
  • Interprets and translates for project staff as needed.
  • Adheres to professional standards as outlined by governmental bodies, (and/or other appropriate professional associations), private funding sources, Organization plans/policies and Unit guidelines.  Participates in periodic evaluative reviews and/or in-house and external staff training to ensure that she/he understands and continues to adhere to such standards.  Initiates requests for assistance or guidance from Supervisor to address new issues or complex concepts affecting adherence to professional standards.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

Qualifications:  

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Education and/or Experience: A law degree (JD), license to practice law, and a minimum of three years’ experience in the area of immigration law, with additional experience in asylum law preferred ; self-motivated and committed to civil liberties advocacy; ability to represent individuals in complex cases and to formulate and implement sophisticated legal strategies; demonstrated ability to work cooperatively on a variety of projects with lawyers, other staff members, and diverse community organizations and coalitions.
  • Language Skills:  High proficiency or fluency in spoken and written Spanish or French required.  Excellent writing and analytical skills; Ability to communicate effectively in legal and non-legal settings with a wide range of individuals and organizations. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.  Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.  Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public. 
  • Reasoning Ability:   Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

Salary Range: $72,000-$84,600

Apply for the Asylum Project Senior Attorney position on Heartland Alliance's Job Board.

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Staff Attorney - Asylum Project

This position provides legal representation and immigration legal service counseling to immigrants appearing before the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with a focus on the representation of asylum seekers, including children, families, and adults. The position may provide technical support to pro bono counsel assigned to NIJC cases.  A Staff Attorney advocates for clients before other government administrative agencies and before other service agencies, as needed and/or as appropriate. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Conducts preliminary intake interview, gathers all relevant facts for presentation at Unit meetings.  Makes assessment of income eligibility and makes appropriate referrals for those individuals not eligible for Organization services.  Recommends exceptions to financial guidelines to the Supervisor.
  • Develops and implements case strategy in consultation with supervisor.
  • Prepares cases for interview or hearing, including drafting legal papers, conducting client advocacy, presenting evidence, etc. in accord with the Code of Professional Responsibility for the legal profession.
  • Carries a volume of work as required by the department.  Has in-depth knowledge of legal and other resources. 
  • With the Supervisor and NIJC Pro Bono Coordinator, prepares cases for recruitment of pro bono counsel
  • Provides technical support to pro bono counsel assigned to NIJC cases.
  • Remains current on immigration law, policies and procedures.  Remains current on implications of criminal and civil law as it applies to the representation of immigrants.
  • Develops and maintains professional relationships with EOIR, DHS, U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS), government and social service organizations and community organizations as necessary.  Interprets immigration and department policies and programs to the public, including public speaking. 
  • In accord with the ethical standards required of the legal profession, the Code of Professional Responsibility, preserves client confidentiality, accounts for client monies and avoids conflict of interest.
  • Maintains complete and accurate client records.  Prepares timely statistical reports.  Conducts quarterly case audits for presentation and review of the Supervisor. 
  • Participates in training on immigration procedures as assigned by the Supervisor.  May conduct training sessions as assigned by the Supervisor.
  • Identifies trends and recurring legal and social concerns.  Recommends strategies for solutions and other needed advocacy.
  • Adheres to professional standards as outlined by governmental bodies, (and/or other appropriate professional associations), private funding sources, Organization plans/policies and Unit guidelines.  Participates in periodic evaluative reviews and/or in-house and external staff training to ensure that she/he understands and continues to adhere to such standards.  Initiates requests for assistance or guidance from Supervisor to address new issues or complex concepts affecting adherence to professional standards.
  • Reacts to change productively and handles other essentials duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Education and/or Experience:   Juris Doctorate Degree required; and one year of direct experience in social service counseling and/or legal representation.
  • Language Skills:   High proficiency or fluency in Spanish required. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.  Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.  Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public. 

Salary Range: $60,878-$71,323

Apply for the Asylum Project Staff Attorney position on Heartland Alliance's Job Board.

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Staff Attorney - Immigrant Children's Protection Project (Chicago)

This position provides legal representation and counseling to detained and non-detained unaccompanied immigrant children before U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Chicago Immigration Court.  A Staff Attorney also advocates for clients before other government administrative agencies and before other service agencies, as needed and/or as appropriate.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:  

  • Conducts preliminary intake interviews. Gathers all relevant facts for each case for presentation at team meetings or to legal supervisors.  Makes assessments of income eligibility, if applicable, and makes appropriate referrals for those individuals not eligible for NIJC services.  Recommends exceptions to financial guidelines to supervisors when appropriate.
  • Develops and implements case strategy in terms of immigration law and procedure. 
  • Prepares cases for interviews and/or hearings, drafting legal cover letters and briefs, engaging in negotiation, presenting evidence, etc., in accord with the Code of Professional Responsibility for the legal profession.
  • Provides Know Your Rights presentations to detained children.
  • Carries a volume of work as required by the project. 
  • Remains current on immigration law, policies and procedures.  Remains current on criminal and civil law as they apply to the representation of immigrants and refugees.
  • Develops and maintains professional relationships with all stakeholders, including with representatives of government agencies, the Immigration Court, and family members and caretakers of clients. 
  • Interprets immigration laws and governmental policies and programs for the public, including at outreach and public speaking events. 
  • In accord with the ethical standards required of the legal profession, the Code of Professional Responsibility, preserves client confidentiality, accounts for client monies, and avoids conflicts of interest.
  • Maintains complete and accurate client records.  Ensures timely entry of all statistical data into databases/servers.  Conducts independent and team case audits. 
  • Participates in training on immigration law and procedures as assigned by legal supervisors.  May conduct trainings as assigned by legal supervisors, as well.
  • Participates in developing and implementing special projects.   Such projects could include presentations on certain legal issues, problems, topics, or developments in immigration law, or new initiatives within the project relating to representation of individual clients or groups of clients.
  • Identifies trends and recurring legal and social concerns.  Recommends strategies for solutions and other needed advocacy.
  • Interprets for NIJC clients and staff and translates documents and other materials as needed.
  • Adheres to professional standards as outlined by governmental bodies, private funding sources, NIJC plans/policies, and project guidelines.  Participates in periodic evaluative reviews and/or in-house and external staff trainings to ensure understanding of and adherence to such standards.  Requests assistance or guidance from legal supervisors as needed to address new issues or complex concepts affecting adherence to professional standards.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

Qualifications:  

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Education and/or Experience:   Juris Doctorate Degree required. One year of direct experience in legal representation preferred.
  • Language Skills:   Ability to read, analyze, and interpret case law, statutes, governmental regulations, professional journals, and other forms of legal writing.  Ability to write legal briefs, cover letters, procedural guidelines, and professional emails and other correspondence.  Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from co-workers, managers, clients, and the general public.  Ability to read, speak, and write in Spanish.  Additional non-English language skills are preferred.
  • Driving: May be required to have a current, valid IL Driver’s License.  May be required to drive their own vehicle and/or an Organization vehicle to and from sites.
  • Mathematical Skills:   Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.  Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.
  • Reasoning Ability:   Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.  Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

Salary Range: $60,878-$71,323

Apply for the Immigrant Children's Protection Project Staff Attorney position on Heartland Alliance's Job Board.

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Staff Attorney- Immigration Court Helpdesk

The National Immigrant Justice Center is seeking Staff Attorneys to provide legal consultations, advice and representation to low-income immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers before the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Department of State, and U.S. Department of Justice.  The staff attorney position requires ability to engage in community outreach, representation for clients at EOIR and/or USCIS and provide legal consultations at off-site locations.

To be successful in this role, attorneys will need to be attentive to detail, thorough, and organized; communicate clearly and accurately, verbally and in writing; have strong time management skills which can concurrently manage multiple matters, delivering each in a timely manner.

Our practice areas include:

  • Immigrant Legal Defense (Spanish required ) - NIJC's Immigrant Legal Defense project offers a wide range of legal services to low-income immigrants seeking to apply for lawful permanent residence (green cards), citizenship, visas, and other legal protection from deportation.
  • Asylum - NIJC provides free legal representation to asylum seekers fleeing persecution in their homelands.
  • Children’s Project for non-detained and Children’s Protection Project - NIJC's legal staff can help children who entered the country as unaccompanied minors assess their options for immigration legal relief.
  • LGBTQ Project - Individuals seeking safety from persecution based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
  • Detention project - The Detention Project provides legal orientation and representation to immigrant adults held by the Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement in immigration detention in Illinois, Wisconsin, Kentucky, and Indiana.
  • Litigation – Work on federal litigation cases and collaborate with NIJC’s communication, policy, and litigation teams and pro bono attorneys

Benefits: Our robust benefits include a 401k, medical (including HSA) dental and vision insurance. Additionally, we have dental, vision insurance, FSA (flexible spending account) short and long term disability, EAP (employee assistance program) and life insurance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:  

  • Conducts preliminary intake interview, gathers all relevant facts for presentation at Unit meetings. 
  • Makes assessments of income eligibility and makes appropriate referrals for those individuals not eligible for Organization services. 
  • Develops and implements preliminary case strategy in terms of immigration law and procedure.  Develops further strategy in consultation with supervisor.
  • Prepares cases for hearing, drafting legal papers, engaging in negotiation, presenting evidence, etc. in accord with the Code of Professional Responsibility for the legal profession. Adheres to professional standards.
  • Conducts assessments of client on social, psychological and economic functioning and determines appropriate interventions and referrals.  Ensures the provision of a wide range of services for clients.
  • Carries a volume of cases as required by the department.  Has in-depth knowledge of legal and other resources.  Provides a wide range of court advocacy services.
  • Remains current on immigration law, policies and procedures.  Remains current on implications of criminal and civil law as it applies to the representation of immigrants and refugees.
  • Develops and maintains professional relationships with the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS), government and social service organizations and community organizations.  Interprets immigration and department policies and programs to the public, including public speaking. 
  • Maintains complete and accurate client records.  Prepares timely statistical reports.  Conducts quarterly case audits for presentation and review of the Supervisor. 
  • Participates in training on immigration procedures as assigned by the Supervisor. 
  • Participates in developing, implementing or leading special projects. Identifies trends and recurring legal and social concerns.  Recommends strategies for solutions and other needed advocacy.
  • Interprets and translates for department and other Organization staff as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Education and/or Experience: Juris Doctorate Degree required; and one year of direct experience in social service counseling and/or legal representation.
  • Language Skills:   Ability to read, speak and write in at least one non-English language. Certain positions require Spanish.
  • Analytical skills:   Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
  • Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.  Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public. 
  • Reasoning Ability:   Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

Salary range: $60,815- $69,112

Apply for the Recent Arrivals Staff Attorney position on Heartland Alliance's Job Board.

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Staff Attorney- Recent Arrivals

The National Immigrant Justice Center is seeking Staff Attorneys to provide legal consultations, advice and representation to low-income immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers before the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Department of State, and U.S. Department of Justice.  The staff attorney position requires ability to engage in community outreach, representation for clients at EOIR and/or USCIS and provide legal consultations at off-site locations.

To be successful in this role, attorneys will need to be attentive to detail, thorough, and organized; communicate clearly and accurately, verbally and in writing; have strong time management skills which can concurrently manage multiple matters, delivering each in a timely manner.

Our practice areas include:

  • Immigrant Legal Defense (Spanish required ) - NIJC's Immigrant Legal Defense project offers a wide range of legal services to low-income immigrants seeking to apply for lawful permanent residence (green cards), citizenship, visas, and other legal protection from deportation.
  • Asylum - NIJC provides free legal representation to asylum seekers fleeing persecution in their homelands.
  • Children’s Project for non-detained and Children’s Protection Project - NIJC's legal staff can help children who entered the country as unaccompanied minors assess their options for immigration legal relief.
  • LGBTQ Project - Individuals seeking safety from persecution based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
  • Detention project - The Detention Project provides legal orientation and representation to immigrant adults held by the Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement in immigration detention in Illinois, Wisconsin, Kentucky, and Indiana.
  • Litigation – Work on federal litigation cases and collaborate with NIJC’s communication, policy, and litigation teams and pro bono attorneys

Benefits: Our robust benefits include a 401k, medical (including HSA) dental and vision insurance. Additionally, we have dental, vision insurance, FSA (flexible spending account) short and long term disability, EAP (employee assistance program) and life insurance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:  

  • Conducts preliminary intake interview, gathers all relevant facts for presentation at Unit meetings. 
  • Makes assessments of income eligibility and makes appropriate referrals for those individuals not eligible for Organization services. 
  • Develops and implements preliminary case strategy in terms of immigration law and procedure.  Develops further strategy in consultation with supervisor.
  • Prepares cases for hearing, drafting legal papers, engaging in negotiation, presenting evidence, etc. in accord with the Code of Professional Responsibility for the legal profession. Adheres to professional standards.
  • Conducts assessments of client on social, psychological and economic functioning and determines appropriate interventions and referrals.  Ensures the provision of a wide range of services for clients.
  • Carries a volume of cases as required by the department.  Has in-depth knowledge of legal and other resources.  Provides a wide range of court advocacy services.
  • Remains current on immigration law, policies and procedures.  Remains current on implications of criminal and civil law as it applies to the representation of immigrants and refugees.
  • Develops and maintains professional relationships with the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS), government and social service organizations and community organizations.  Interprets immigration and department policies and programs to the public, including public speaking. 
  • Maintains complete and accurate client records.  Prepares timely statistical reports.  Conducts quarterly case audits for presentation and review of the Supervisor. 
  • Participates in training on immigration procedures as assigned by the Supervisor. 
  • Participates in developing, implementing or leading special projects. Identifies trends and recurring legal and social concerns.  Recommends strategies for solutions and other needed advocacy.
  • Interprets and translates for department and other Organization staff as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Education and/or Experience: Juris Doctorate Degree required; and one year of direct experience in social service counseling and/or legal representation.
  • Language Skills:   Ability to read, speak and write in at least one non-English language. Certain positions require Spanish.
  • Analytical skills:   Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
  • Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.  Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public. 
  • Reasoning Ability:   Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

Salary range: $60,815- $69,112

Apply for the Recent Arrivals Staff Attorney position on Heartland Alliance's Job Board.

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Pro Bono Coordinator- Immigrant Legal Defense Project

The Pro Bono Project Coordinator will work with diverse partners to ensure immigrant survivors of domestic violence and other crimes have access to legal representation. The objectives of the project are to:

  • coordinate effective representation of vulnerable immigrant populations;
  • increase the broad-based impact of NIJC’s legal services program by coordinating regular pro bono trainings, case referrals, and clinic opportunities;
  • receive and review case referrals before assigning cases to pro bono partners;
  • coordinate direct pro bono placements, develop materials and trainings for potential pro bono partners and staff members, and coordinate clinics with pro bono partners;
  • provide technical assistance to pro bono partners while they are working on cases

The Coordinator will be responsible for serving as the NIJC representative with pro bono partners, NIJC staff, law students, and other immigrant and human rights organizations to ensure access to justice for immigrants. The Coordinator ensures that pro bono partners receive adequate support and training and monitors these placements from initial assignment to the final adjudication of the case. Individual accountabilities and work volume will be established through the development of annual Success Objectives, within the framework outlined below.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Work with Pro Bono Project Paralegal to ensure careful tracking of all pro bono case referrals
  • Review and place case referrals with pro bono partners
  • Maintain case files for all pro bono matters, including ensuring thoroughness and accuracy of reporting in case management database
  • Contribute to the publication and distribution of NIJC’s pro bono training materials and online educational webinars
  • Serve as the external representative to pro bono partners and work with Pro Bono Project Manager to identify new partners and expand the project
  • Contribute to NIJC’s pro bono outreach at pro bono events
  • Conduct a biannual audit of pending pro bono matters in collaboration with supervisor
  • Ensure pro bono partners have access to resources needed for effective representation, including trauma-informed practices
  • Conduct intake under the supervision of an attorney or DOJ accredited representative
  • Prepare and participate in clinics and trainings for staff and pro bono partners, both in person and online
  • Maintain current knowledge of immigration policies, procedures, and internal structures
  • Prepare applications, legal arguments, evidence, and affidavits for case filings to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and U.S. Department of State
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned

Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Education and/or Experience: Bachelor's degree required. Masters' degree preferred. Minimum of two years of experience in human rights field, legal and/or communications work required. May give credit towards years of experience if attained a degree higher than a Bachelor's Degree.
  • Language Skills: Fluency in English and Spanish is required. Ability to communicate articulately with internal and external audiences. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Demonstrated competency in public speaking and strong interpersonal skills required.
  • Computer Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Internet Explorer, Outlook/Exchange; Windows operating systems; and other software routinely used by Heartland Alliance.
  • Other Skills: Knowledge of: principles and practices of communications and public information techniques through different mediums, including print, television, and internet; writing and editing techniques for a variety of audiences.

Salary Range: $51,595- $60,700

Apply for the Pro Bono Coordinator position on Heartland Alliance's Job Board.

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Paralegal- Asylum Project

This position provides general paralegal support for non-detained asylum seekers seeking protection before the immigration court and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, as well as for other noncitizens as needed.  The paralegal conducts intake, research, case review, documentation preparation and other related tasks to support general operations and the work of staff and pro bono attorneys. Individual accountabilities and work volume will be established through the development of annual Success Objectives, within the framework outlined below.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Conducts intakes of asylum seekers.
  • Conducts legal and factual research.
  • Assesses cases to determine eligibility
  • Conducts interviews with clients and witnesses.
  • Serves as interpreter for Spanish-speaking clients at interviews.
  • Translates documents from Spanish to English.
  • Drafts applications, affidavits, letters and/or legal pleadings and prepares supporting documentation.
  • Prepares materials for submission to Department of Homeland Security, Immigration Court, or other entities as appropriate.
  • Reviews, analyzes, and presents cases to supervisor.
  • Remains current on immigration law, policies and procedures.
  • Maintains complete, thorough, accurate and current records in an organized fashion in accordance with legal standards, rules and ethics.
  • Ensures the accuracy, substance and timeliness of statistical and narrative reports, projects, schedules and other relevant work products.
  • In accord with organizational policies and the ethical standards required of the legal profession, the Code of Professional Responsibility, preserves client confidentiality, accounts for client monies and avoids conflicts of interest.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Education and/or Experience: Bachelor’s degree with demonstrated experience working with immigrants, refugees and/or asylum seekers.  At least one year of experience working with these populations preferred.
  • Language Skills:   Fluency in English and Spanish is required.  Ability to communicate articulately with internal and external audiences.
  • Other Qualifications:   Excellent writing, editing, organizational and computer skills required.  Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and perform well under strict deadlines.

Salary Range: $40,467-$47,411

Apply for the Asylum Project Paralegal position on Heartland Alliance's Job Board.

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Paralegal- Immigrant Children's Protection Project- Indianapolis

The Paralegal provides general paralegal support for detained and non-detained unaccompanied immigrant children seeking protection through asylum, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) and other forms of relief.  The paralegal conducts Know Your Rights presentations, intakes, research, case review, affidavit writing, documentation preparation and other related tasks to support general operations and the work of staff and pro bono attorneys. Individual accountabilities and work volume will be established through the development of annual Success Objectives, within the framework outlined below. This position is hybrid and based in Indianapolis.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Give Know Your Rights presentations on the immigration process and legal rights.
  • Conduct legal screenings with detained and formerly detained children.
  • Responds to NIJC’s non-detained UIC hotline and inbox, as assigned.
  • Organizes and plans in-person legal services for formerly detained children.
  • Refers formerly detained children to legal service providers in the region where they are living.
  • Conducts legal and factual research.
  • Assesses cases to determine eligibility.
  • Conducts interviews with clients and witnesses.
  • Drafts applications, affidavits, letters and/or legal pleadings and prepares supporting documentation.
  • Prepares materials for submission to Department of Homeland Security, Immigration Court, or other entities as appropriate.
  • Reviews, analyzes and presents cases to supervisor.
  • Remains current on immigration law, policies and procedures.
  • Maintains complete, thorough, accurate and current records in an organized fashion in accordance with legal standards, rules and ethics.
  • Ensures the accuracy, substance and timeliness of statistical and narrative reports, projects, schedules and other relevant work products.
  • In accord with organizational policies and the ethical standards required of the legal profession, the Code of Professional Responsibility, preserves client confidentiality, accounts for client monies and avoids conflicts of interest.
  • Reacts to change productively and handles other essentials duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Education and/or Experience: Bachelor’s degree with demonstrated experience working with immigrants, refugees and/or asylum seekers.  At least one year of experience working with these populations preferred.
  • Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: Must have or be able to get a current, valid IN Driver’s License.  Travel to sites around the state of Indiana is required.
  • Other Skills and Qualifications: Must successfully pass background check.
  • Language Skills: Fluency in English and Spanish is required.  Ability to communicate articulately with internal and external audiences.
  • Other Qualifications:  Excellent writing, editing, organizational and computer skills required.  Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and perform well under strict deadlines.

Salary Range: $40,467-$47,410

Apply for the Immigrant Child Protection Project Paralegal position on Heartland Alliance's Job Board.

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Paralegal- Immigrant Legal Defense Project

The Paralegal provides general paralegal support for the Immigrant Legal Defense (ILD) Legal Protection team. The paralegal conducts intake, research, case review, documentation preparation and other related tasks to support general operations and the work of staff and pro bono attorneys. The paralegal also provides and assists with group presentations. Individual accountabilities and work volume will be established through the development of annual Success Objectives, within the framework outlined below.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Conducts intake, as assigned, at NIJC’s Chicago office and at off-site locations in and near Chicago.
  • Provides and assists with group presentations, including Know Your Rights presentations.
  • Conducts legal and factual research.
  • Assesses cases to determine eligibility.
  • Conducts interviews with clients and witnesses.
  • Drafts applications, affidavits, letters and/or legal pleadings and prepares supporting documentation.
  • Prepares materials for submission to Department of Homeland Security, Immigration Court, or other entities as appropriate.
  • Reviews, analyzes and presents cases to supervisor.
  • Tracks individual cases and outcomes
  • Remains current on immigration law, policies and procedures.
  • Maintains complete, thorough, accurate and current records in an organized fashion in accordance with legal standards, rules and ethics.
  • Ensures the accuracy, substance and timeliness of statistical and narrative reports, projects, schedules and other relevant work products.
  • In accord with organizational policies and the ethical standards required of the legal profession, the Code of Professional Responsibility, preserves client confidentiality, accounts for client monies and avoids conflicts of interest.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Education and/or Experience: Bachelor’s degree with demonstrated experience working with immigrants, refugees and/or asylum seekers.  At least one year of experience working with these populations preferred.
  • Language Skills:   Fluency in English and Spanish is required. Speakers of other languages are encouraged to apply.  Ability to communicate articulately with internal and external audiences.
  • Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: Must have or is able to get a current, valid IL Driver’s License. Travel to sites around the Chicago area is required.
  • Other Qualifications: Excellent writing, editing, organizational and computer skills required.  Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and perform well under strict deadlines.

Salary Range: $40,467-$47,410

Apply for the Immigrant Legal Defense Project Paralegal position on Heartland Alliance's Job Board.

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Paralegal- Recent Arrivals

The Paralegal provides general paralegal support for the Recent Arrivals team. The paralegal conducts intake, research, case review, documentation preparation and other related tasks to support general operations and the work of staff and pro bono attorneys. The paralegal also provides and assists with group presentations. Individual accountabilities and work volume will be established through the development of annual Success Objectives, within the framework outlined below.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Conducts intake, as assigned, at NIJC’s Chicago office and at off-site locations in and near Chicago.
  • Provides and assists with group presentations, including Know Your Rights presentations.
  • Conducts legal and factual research.
  • Assesses cases to determine eligibility.
  • Conducts interviews with clients and witnesses.
  • Drafts applications, affidavits, letters and/or legal pleadings and prepares supporting documentation.
  • Prepares materials for submission to Department of Homeland Security, Immigration Court, or other entities as appropriate.
  • Reviews, analyzes and presents cases to supervisor.
  • Tracks individual cases and outcomes
  • Remains current on immigration law, policies and procedures.
  • Maintains complete, thorough, accurate and current records in an organized fashion in accordance with legal standards, rules and ethics.
  • Ensures the accuracy, substance and timeliness of statistical and narrative reports, projects, schedules and other relevant work products.
  • In accord with organizational policies and the ethical standards required of the legal profession, the Code of Professional Responsibility, preserves client confidentiality, accounts for client monies and avoids conflicts of interest.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

Qualifications:  

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Education and/or Experience: Bachelor’s degree with demonstrated experience working with immigrants, refugees and/or asylum seekers.  At least one year of experience working with these populations preferred.
  • Language Skills:   Fluency in English and Spanish, French, or Arabic is REQUIRED. Speakers of other languages are encouraged to apply.  Ability to communicate articulately with internal and external audiences.
  • Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:  Must have or is able to get a current, valid IL Driver’s License. Travel to sites around the Chicago area is required.
  • Other Qualifications:   Excellent writing, editing, organizational and computer skills required.  Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and perform well under strict deadlines.

Salary Range: $40,467-$47,410

Apply for the Recent Arrivals Project Paralegal position on Heartland Alliance's Job Board.

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Internships

NIJC is now accepting applications spring law student internships through the Public Interest Law Initiative (PILI). We have closed the application process for summer undergraduate and law student internships.

NIJC offers internships to law students and undergraduate students to work in a variety of its different legal services programs including legal services. The internships present an excellent opportunity to learn more about U.S. immigration law and policies while making a difference in the lives of low-income and impoverished individuals who are in need of legal representation. Please see our internship page for more details.


Schreiber Fellowship Program

NIJC is now accepting applications for its Schreiber Fellowship Program starting in September 2024 through August 2026.

NIJC is proud to continue its Schreiber Legal Fellowship Program through the generosity of John and Kathy Schreiber. NIJC will select at least two fellows, who will provide legal representation to immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers for two years. NIJC provides legal representation to thousands of detained and non-detained immigrants each year and draws on its legal services to advance systemic reform. Through the Schreiber Fellowships, NIJC seeks to invest in the next generation of diverse legal advocates. To that end, NIJC will consider applications from graduating law students or recent graduates who demonstrate a strong commitment to pursuing a long-term career in the immigrant rights movement. NIJC strongly encourages applications from people with lived experiences in immigrant communities, members of marginalized communities, and individuals from communities that are underrepresented in the legal profession. Individuals with a strong interest in immigration issues but with limited prior experience will be strongly considered. See more about the Schreiber Fellowship Program and apply now.

 

 

All positions are based out of NIJC's Chicago loop office unless otherwise indicated in the job description.

NIJC is a program of the Heartland Alliance for Human Needs & Human Rights that champions the human rights and improves the lives of men, women, and children who are threatened by poverty or danger. For more than 100 years we have been providing solutions- both through services and policy- that move individuals from crisis to stability and on to success. Heartland Alliance's work in housing, health care, legal protections, and economic security serves more than 100,000 people annually, helping them build better lives. Heartland Alliance makes all hiring and employment decisions without regard to race, creed, color, age, gender, gender identity, marital or parental status, religion, ancestry, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, sexual identity, immigrant status, political affiliation or belief, ex-offender status (depending on the offense and position to be filled), unfavorable military discharge, membership in an organization whose primary purpose is the protection of civil rights or improvement of living conditions and human relations, height, weight, or HIV infection, in accord with the Organization's AIDS Policy Statement of September, 1987. Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodation should contact the Employee Services Office at (312) 660-1431.