Careers

The Director Analytics and Decision Support is responsible for the program level day-to-day oversight of financial and cost center activities for the National Immigrant Justice Center. We invite applications from persons who are passionate about NIJC’s mission and have the ability to energize others about NIJC’s work. We work with Federal, State and City programs—which include various immigration services which are supported by city, state, federal, and private foundation dollars. The director will ensure the financial health of NIJC by overseeing these multiple funding streams, by understanding the programs within NIJC, and through collaboration with program managers and staff. The director also serves as the liaison to Financial and Accountability Services (FAS), and coordinates with FAS to ensure that all accounting information is consistent and accurately reported and monitored. The director must have experience in managing multiple, complex funding streams, creating and managing complex budgets and experienced in cost allocation and payroll allocation analysis. Individual accountabilities and work volume will be established through the development of annual success objectives, within the framework outlined below.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Serves as liaison and primary contact between NIJC and FAS;
• Ensures budgets are managed according to contract requirements;
• Generates and maintains budgets and assists with budget narratives for Federal/State/City contracts;
• Prepares budgets for grant applications in collaboration with Development, FAS and Operations departments;
• In collaboration with FAS, prepares and reviews reports on behalf of NIJC as required by external agencies and contractual obligations;
• Initiates communication regarding the status of and issues affecting service revenues and expenses; identifies strategies for resolution of outstanding issues;
• Reviews, tracks, and analyzes financial and operational performance and proactively identifies and supports funding-related decisions/changes;
• Provides NIJC leadership and management with timely reviews of financial status and progress in its various programs and activities;
• Demonstrates a thorough understanding of contracts, funder requirements, allowable expenses, and reporting tools (such as VERA funding and City of Chicago vouchering);
• Reviews and reports on monthly operating statements and detail reports, financial documents and analyses, explains variances within these financial documents and develops corrective actions and spend down initiatives;
• Analyze opportunities by developing businesses cases, conducting analytics, building growth strategies, and implementation plans, including project management at times;
• Create and maintain financial and operational dashboards to better assist management and leadership
• Monitors and reviews employee transactions/expenses to ensure compliance with agency and division policies;
• Ensures compliance with contract obligations and works with Heartland Alliance and internal NIJC to meet the requirements;
• Conforms with and abides by all internal and external applicable regulations, policies, and contractual guidelines and obligations;
• 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: Bachelor’s degree in accounting finance or business; a minimum of 5 years prior accounting/financial experience or 10 years related experience and training. Will consider years of experience in accounting and finance in lieu of a Bachelor’s Degree.
• Demonstrated experience in financial management and accounting, ideally in the nonprofit sector
• Demonstrated experience working with multiple funding streams, understanding and application of accounting principles, cost accounting and cost management; experience with operational budget management and creation and interacting with managers regarding financial decision making;
• Demonstrated experience with federal, city and state funding strongly preferred.
• Experience in analyzing general ledger accounts and payroll entries.
• Experience in training financial concepts to non-financial people

Competencies:
Integrity - Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects under the pressure of deadlines, be detail oriented and organized, work independently, synthesize information, communicate effectively and follow-through with others, and maintain the highest regard for confidentiality and ethical standards.

Project Management – Develops project plans and realistic action plans based on data-driven analysis; Creates project budgets; Communicates changes and progress to stakeholders; Manages project team activities through timetables, metrics reporting, and visual presentations.
Relationship Management – Creates and maintains an environment of camaraderie and positivity and strong work ethic; Communicates purposes, goals, timelines, and strategies clearly; Ability to manage up, across and down effectively.
Written Communication – Writes clearly and informatively; Presents numerical data effectively;
Problem Solving – Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem-solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
Planning/Organizing – Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; Plans for additional resources; Sets goals and objectives; Organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; Develops realistic action plans.
Adaptability – Adapts to changes in the work environment; Manages competing demands; Changes approach or method to best fit the situation; Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events; Able to multi-task and lead in a fast-paced environment.
Dependability – Follows instructions and responds to management direction; Takes responsibility for own actions; Keeps commitments; Commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals; Completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with alternative plan; good sense of humor.
Computer Skills: Advanced Microsoft Excel skills required; Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Internet Explorer, Outlook/Exchange; Windows operating systems; experience with computerized accounting systems and other software routinely used by Heartland Alliance such as Financial Edge.
Language Skills: Excellent oral and written communication skills. Demonstrated competency in public speaking and strong interpersonal skills required.

Other Skills and Qualifications: Demonstrated successful experience managing large government contracts. High level of knowledge and experience in analyzing, interpreting and reporting variety of financial data; high level knowledge of accounting principles and techniques;

Salary Range: $82,500-$97,000

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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

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Senior Attorney- Asylum Project Non-Detained Kids

Under the general leadership of the Managing Attorney, t he senior attorney position is housed in NIJC’s Asylum Project, but specifically focuses on non-detained unaccompanied immigrant children (UICs) and other vulnerable children and youth, including those involved in the child welfare system. The attorney will provide legal representation before U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS), Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Immigration Court, with a focus on complex cases involving UICs. The position involves representation of parents or guardians in Illinois family courts to obtain predicate orders for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (“SIJS”), as well as technical support to pro bono counsel assigned to SIJS matters. The attorney will conduct age-appropriate, trauma-informed interviews with child clients and their family members, and may also advocate for clients before other agencies including schools, law enforcement, public benefits agencies, and others. The attorney should be fluent in spoken and written Spanish. Experience working with low-income immigrants, children, or survivors of violence preferred.

Essential Functions:

Duties/Responsibilities:

Conducts preliminary intake interviews, gathering all relevant facts for presentation at Unit meetings.
Assesses 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 the cases for hearings, drafting legal papers, engaging in negotiation, presenting evidence, etc. in accord with the Code of Professional Responsibility for the legal profession.
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 work as required by the department. Has in-depth knowledge of legal and other resources. Provides a wide range of court advocacy services.
With the Supervisor and NIJC Pro Bono Manager, prepares cases for recruitment of pro bono counsel, and provides technical support to pro bono counsel assigned to NIJC cases.
Develops and maintains professional relationships with the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS), government and social service organizations and community organizations.
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.
Participates in developing and implementing special projects, May have the primary responsibility for a project involving presentation of a particular ethnic group, immigration problem or advocacy issues on a systematic level.
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.
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 understand 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.

Supervision responsibilities:

Manage Staff Attorneys and paralegals, including annual performance evaluations.

Supervisory Responsibilities (if applicable):

Supervise Staff Attorneys for the Non-Detained Unaccompanied Immigrant Children’s program.

Education and Experience:

Juris Doctorate Degree required;
Minimum of three years’ experience in the area of immigration law.
Experience working with individuals directly impacted by the U.S. immigration system and experience or interest in international human rights or justice-related or legal initiatives preferred.

Certifications/Licenses:

Current Law License

Required Leadership Competencies:

Strategic Agility – Set a vision and create strategies in the midst of a complex, uncertain, and changing environment. Think big picture to make long-term decisions. Think innovatively to improve processes and services. Inspire innovative thinking and help the organization adapt to change and face adversity. Efficiently synthesize data and input. Focus on selecting effective and strategic outcomes given limited resources and the ability to offer alternative and viable options.
Managerial Courage – Challenge group-think and create an environment that welcomes diverse perspectives. Identify, diffuse, and rectify unethical, unsafe, racist, or uncomfortable situations. Engage in courageous communication and critical thinking to balance differing views across teams and the organization. Manage challenging situations and conflicts in a professional manner even if it requires an unpopular stance. Establish and hold boundaries diplomatically and demonstrating emotional intelligence.
Talent Development – Build capacity of future leaders and empower teams. Leverage unique backgrounds, experiences and strengths to develop a cohesive team and create an inclusive environment. Manage employees with understanding and empathy; display emotional intelligence. Support employees’ well-being by understanding and working to address work stress and vicarious trauma. Provide timely feedback that is authentic, direct and actionable.
Teamwork & Collaboration – Engage diverse perspectives in order to establish a common ground and work toward solutions. Be responsive and encouraging of others’ involvement and insights. Solicit and consider the thoughts, ideas, and diverse perspectives of others even when unconventional or untested. Address conflict and leverage differences to create mutually beneficial solutions. Understand team dynamics; recognize the importance of building the right team. Demonstrate commitment to the team - focus on group accountability.
Communication – Deliver honest, clear, persuasive and timely information. Collect (i.e., actively listen) and synthesize information. Communicate in an inclusive and respectful way. Communicate appropriately and effectively in written and verbal form to various stakeholders (e.g., participants, staff, partners, funders). Represent Heartland Alliance externally with the power to inspire and influence others

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

Basic knowledge of the U.S. immigration system and/or immigrant rights movement;
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.
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.
Interprets immigration and department policies and programs to the public, including public speaking.
Fluency in English and Spanish is required. Ability to communicate articulately with internal and external audiences.
Excellent writing, editing, organizational and computer skills required. Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and perform well under strict deadlines.
Commitment to NIJC’s mission and goals

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

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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:

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

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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:

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

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Staff Attorney - Immigrant Legal Defense Project

NIJC's Immigrant Legal Defense Project is seeking an attorney 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. This staff attorney position requires Spanish fluency, ability to engage in community outreach, and provide legal consultations at off-site locations.

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 preliminary case strategy in terms of immigration law and procedure. Develops further strategy in terms of immigration law and procedure. Develops further strategy in consultation with supervisor.
Prepares the case for hearing, drafting legal papers, engaging in negotiation, presenting evidence, etc. in accord with the Code of Professional Responsibility for the legal profession.
Conducts assessment 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 work 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.
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.
Participates in developing and implementing special projects, May have the primary responsibility for a project involving presentation of a particular ethnic group, immigration problem or advocacy issues on a systematic level.
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.
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:

Education and/or Experience: Juris Doctorate Degree required; and one year of direct experience in social service counseling and/or legal representation.
Language Skills: Fluency in English and Spanish is required. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Demonstrated competency in public speaking and strong interpersonal skills required. Additional non-English language skills are preferred.
Computer Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Internet Explorer, Outlook/Exchange; Windows operating systems; and other software routinely used by Heartland Alliance.
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

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Grants Manager

The Grants Manager is responsible for managing grants and contracts throughout the entirety of their lifecycle, from prospecting to final report, for an assigned portfolio of government and foundation grants that support NIJC’s legal services and advocacy. The Grants Manager reports to the Director of Development and is a member of the five-person development team. The Grants Manager will coordinate with legal project staff, operations/finance teams, and other members of the development team to ensure the accurate and timely submission of all assigned grant applications, reports, and other required materials. The Grants Manager is responsible for writing and reviewing narrative for grant proposals and reports within their portfolio, as well as compiling and analyzing client- and service-level data from NIJC’s database to report on grant deliverables.

NIJC is a hybrid workplace, and the Grants Manager can expect opportunity for both remote and in-office work, but must be based in the Chicagoland area and available for regular in-person work at NIJC’s downtown office.

Essential Duties and Functions

Grant Seeking

Collaborate with NIJC’s project teams and leadership to identify and prioritize funding needs in line with NIJC’s strategic plan and potential new initiatives
Identify prospective grant funding opportunities, assess opportunities for fit, and make recommendations to the team and leadership about opportunities to pursue
Lead the preparation and timely submission of grant applications, including writing and editing grant narratives

Contract Management and Compliance

Manage post-award contracting requirements, including developing work plans in collaboration with projects
Advise projects on grant compliance, including informing project staff and leadership of grant requirements, timelines, and contractual obligations
Assist legal projects with developing processes and procedures to ensure grant compliance and successful achievement of grant obligations
Support funder site visits and audits, including coordinating with project leadership and finance staff to ensure that required documentation are complete and available
Develop and review memoranda of understanding, scopes of services, and subaward budgets for subcontractors as appropriate for grants with subcontracts

Grant Reporting and Monitoring

Manage and update grant reporting calendar to ensure that no deadlines are missed
Support legal projects with data quality assurance and improvement in NIJC’s case management database, LegalServer
Track progress to grant deliverables and communicate with project leadership

Fiscal Management

Liaise between NIJC’s projects and finance director to develop budgets for grant proposals
Organize and provide support and input to regular project expenditure review meetings to ensure spenddown of grants on allowable expenses

Team Work

Provide input to the Director of Development and finance staff as part of annual budgeting process to project grant funding streams
Produce regular reports on grant funding awarded and projected to inform team strategy, goals, and assessment
Work collaboratively with Development and other teams on shared goals, including strategic and team planning
Participate in regular Development team, cross-departmental, and organization-wide meetings
Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in a related field, such as nonprofit administration, public affairs, etc. Masters degree preferred. A minimum of three years of experience in grants management, nonprofit administration, development, or similar area. Additional years of experience and/or familiarity with immigration, legal aid, and/or issues related to civil/human rights is beneficial.
Language Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
Extremely high attention to detail, consistent and reliable follow-through, and ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
Strong self-starter who will take initiative and work independently to achieve results, but can also collaborate and contribute to team efforts.
Computer Skills: Strong computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including managing and analyzing datasets in Microsoft Excel. Experience with creating and pulling queries from a case management database is preferred.

Competencies:

Planning/Organizing – Prioritizes and plans work activities; uses time efficiently; plans for additional resources; sets goals and objectives; organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; develops realistic action plans.
Written Communication – Writes clearly and informatively; edits work for spelling and grammar; varies writing style to meet needs and audience; presents numerical data effectively; able to read and interpret written information.
Relationship Management – Communicates purposes, goals, timelines, and strategies clearly; establishes action plans for constituent interactions; manages multiple stakeholders with varying agendas with respect.
Problem Solving – Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem-solving situations; uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
Adaptability – Adapts to changes in the work environment; manages competing demands; changes approach or method to best fit the situation; able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events; able to multi-task and lead in a fast-paced environment.
Dependability – Follows instructions, responds to management direction; takes responsibility for own actions; keeps commitments; commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals; completes tasks.
Quantity - Meets productivity standards; completes work in timely manner; strives to increase productivity; works quickly.

Salary Range: $62,800 to $73,800

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Project Coordinator Social Services

The National Immigrant Justice Center’s Project Coordinator reports to the Associate Director of Detention and is responsible for coordinating referrals and linkages to social services to support NIJC clients. The Coordinator’s role supports NIJC clients by connecting them with social service programs and developing release plans to present to the court specifically for detained individual seeking to be integrated into the community. This role additionally ensures quality of data reporting and project performance outcomes, including increasing the roster of social services available for NIJC’s clients.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Identifies resources for NIJC clients in need of social services.
Coordinates services with client’s legal team.
Identifies services, including housing, food, mental health, physical health, and/or substance use providers, etc. who may provide services to NIJC clients.
Works with community resources and organizations to coordinate services.
Connects clients to the appropriate services.
Identifies client eligibility for government programs
Creates materials to share with NIJC staff regarding services available for NIJC clients.
Provides support to client in securing social services.
Develops release plans for submission to immigration authorities and/or the court in cases involving detained individuals.
Advocates for NIJC clients who may be vulnerable or need additional support.
Participates in regularly scheduled caseload consultation.
Facilitates client outreach, engagement, linkage, referrals, coordination, and follow up for mental health, physical health, and substance use services and supports.
Identifies gaps in care for clients and arranges appropriate and timely resolution with external agencies.
Documents in database client eligibility and referrals
Ensure careful tracking of case referrals and maintain case files for matters included in this project
Compile data and draft reports for funders and other stakeholders
Serve as the external representative to community partners
React to change productively and handle other essential duties as assigned.
Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will have experience working with and within immigrant communities, will have working knowledge of the challenges and limitations in accessing social and public services, and have a high level of cultural competence. The Coordinator must be able to respond to emergencies, work well with a variety of stakeholders, be highly organized, enthusiastic and committed to immigrant rights. To perform this job successfully, the ideal candidate must be able to perform each essential duty. 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. The ideal candidate is a mature professional who can work independently and take initiative in response to tight deadlines and emerging opportunities. The ideal candidate needs to be able to identify/anticipate emerging opportunities or issues. The ideal candidate pays attention to detail, knows how to prioritize his/her work, has strong organizational skills, maintains confidentiality, thrives in a fast-paced and demanding environment, and is open to change.

Education and/or Experience: Bachelor’s degree required.. Minimum of two years of experience in human rights, human services, social services, and/or immigration legal services work required, with a preference for candidates with prior case management, social work or social service coordination experience.
Language Skills: Fluency in English; fluency in a second language, especially Spanish, is preferred but not required. Ability to communicate articulately with internal and external audiences. A strong record of cultural competence and cross-cultural communication skills;
Excellent oral and written communication skills. Demonstrated competency in public speaking and strong interpersonal skills required.
Computer Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other software routinely used by Heartland Alliance.
Other Skills: Ability to: assimilate and convey messages on a variety of issues relating to immigration in a succinct and compelling way and tailored to different audiences; relate to a diverse clients and legal projects; work with a diverse team of social service providers and advocate on behalf of clients; create a network of resources and contacts within different geographical areas; be goal-oriented and multi-task; have a diplomatic presence; develop and maintain good working relationships with a wide variety of legal entities; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Salary Range: $47,800-$56,200

Apply for the Project Coordinator Social Services 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.

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:

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:

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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Internships

NIJC is not accepting internship applications at this time. Please check back for more information about applying for a future term.

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.

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.