Description:

Job Summary: CARECEN seeks a bilingual Spanish speaking Staff Attorney, Law School Graduate or Accredited Representative for its affirmative services unit. The Staff Attorney/Law School Graduate/Accredited Representative will focus on providing support to legal cases as part of CARECEN's holistic legal advocacy. The ALAS team provides assistance in affirmative immigration cases including but not limited to naturalization and citizenship, family petitions, SIJS, adjustment of status, advance parole, TPS, DACA, removal of conditions, U Visas, VAWAs, green card renewals as well as other forms of relief and duties assigned. The Staff Attorney/Law School Graduate/Accredited Representative role will assist with providing comprehensive, client-centered case management support that includes, but is not limited to: keeping case files updated, inquiring with USCIS regarding client case status, responding to inquiries received from clients and USCIS, e.g. request for evidence, notice of intent to deny, implementation of policy changes, case closings, file requests, and other matters in support of department clients and cases.

Job Responsibilities/Essential Duties

Conduct and review client intakes for immigration relief for community members at CARECEN and offsite partner locations
Prepare a variety of immigration cases including representing and advocating on behalf of applicants before USCIS, EOIR, or other agencies as needed
Provide records review, case management, and support client's access to services
Liaison with other service providers and the legal department to provide support to clients, including records requests
Help develop and maintain client case management system, and data reporting
Assist Attorneys and DOJ Accredited Representatives with closing cases, including but not limited to reviewing closing letters with clients and prepping closing files to provide to clients.
Assist with peer reviewing and developing internal training material for staff trainings on relevant themes and topics
Continue developing knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to keep abreast of regulation and policy changes that impact CARECEN clients
Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Required Skill/Qualifications

California licensed attorney or Accredited Representative DOJ (preferred), Juris Doctor or Bachelor's Degree required
Working knowledge of the immigration system or other systems that impact humanitarian or other affirmative forms of relief
Knowledge in trauma-informed approach case management
Dedication to immigrants and other underserved communities
Ability to take initiative, self-start, and be creative in addressing issues or problems with limited resources
Sensitivity and desire to work with low-income, immigrant survivors of crime including domestic violence and sexual assault required.
Ability to work in a collaborative manner within the organization and community partners
Strong verbal and writing skills
Fluency in the English and Spanish languages
Commitment to the mission and goals of CARECEN

Classification & Work Schedule
Office hours are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday – Friday. The work schedule for this position is a 35-hour workweek equaling 7-hour workdays. Position may require evening and/or weekend work, based on responsibilities. This is a full-time position. Exempt or non-exempt status depends on credentials and employee title classification. The normal office hours for an exempt position is 35 hours, but a greater emphasis is placed on meeting the responsibilities assigned to the position. Exempt employees do not receive overtime compensation, compensatory time off, or additional compensation beyond the salary assigned to the position. A hybrid schedule may be offered. The position is part of the bargaining unit represented by the union.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:
This position operates in a professional office environment. The position requires the ability to lift files, open filing cabinets, and bend or stand as necessary.

Travel Requirements:
Work is performed in a variety of work settings, including CARECEN's offices, workspace provided by other nonprofits, libraries, and government facilities, among others. Position requires the ability to travel to different CARECEN offices and offsite locations. Work may comprise up to 25% of travel time. Mileage reimbursement is available when applicable. Ability to drive with a valid CA license and a registered vehicle is preferred.