Immigration Specialist

ccchicagocareers; Illinois; On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago is seeking an Immigration Specialist to provide immigration legal services, advise clients, prepare cases, and liaise with federal agencies including USCIS and consulates in Chicago.

Responsibilities include preparing forms, gathering supporting documents, researching updates in immigration law, maintaining confidential files, and coordinating with partners to deliver coordinated services.

Qualifications

• BA/BS in a related field; 1–3 years of relevant experience.
• Spanish fluency in writing and speaking.
• Paralegal experience or work in social services.
• Strong communication and computer literacy to manage case records.

Responsibilities

• Provide immigration legal advice and represent clients before DHS/USCIS and consulates.
• Prepare immigration forms, gather documentation, and draft declarations.
• Research updates in immigration laws and coordinate with external stakeholders.
• Maintain confidential client files and ensure compliant documentation.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and engage in ongoing learning.

Skills

Spanish Fluency

Strong communication

Computer literacy

Education

BA/BS in related field

Master's degree in related field

Job description

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago partners with mission-driven people and organizations across Cook and Lake counties to witness a message of mercy and hope to a world in need by improving lives and nourishing spirits; strengthening and empowering people, families, and communities; and committing to being present to our times through the eyes of faith.

Role Overview

The Immigration Specialist provides immigration legal services including advising clients, preparing cases, communicating with federal agencies, and ensuring compliance for matters such as family reunification, naturalization, VAWA, and U visas.

Job Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice to clients regarding immigration matters, including Family Reunification, Naturalization, Violence Against Women Act VAWA, and U Visas. Represent clients before the DHS U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Chicago District office, U.S. Consulates and Embassies
• Prepare immigration forms in accordance with U.S. immigration laws and regulations, assist clients in gathering supporting documentation, and support them in drafting and completing personal declarations. Research and analyze updates in immigration laws, regulations, and court rulings to ensure accurate and current service delivery.
• Communicate with USCIS district offices, U.S. consulates, embassies, and other Department of Homeland Security agencies to inquire about individual cases. Conduct research on immigration laws, regulations, and court rulings, and collaborate with other immigration practitioners on complex cases and client referrals. Develop and maintain strong relationships with immigration service providers, faith-based organizations, and other external stakeholders to support coordinated service delivery. Maintain strict confidentiality of client information in accordance with CCAC's programmatic policies, professional standards, and all applicable regulatory and funding requirements. Ensure client files are accurate and compliant by updating documentation immediately following the delivery of services.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders as needed.
• Engage in ongoing learning, training, and skill development, seeking and applying feedback to continuously improve performance and contribute to team and organizational success.

PLEASE NOTE: Essential functions include all other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

• Kneel and move from sitting, bending, kneeling, or standing multiple times a day
• Climb up and down up to 3 flights of stairs at a time
• Lift, push, and pull up to 10 lbs

Other Requirements: Comply with program and/or requirements related to:

• Background check

Education and Experience Requirements:

Minimum

• Bachelor's Degree in Arts/Sciences (BA/BS) in a related field of study 1-3 years relevant experience
• Spanish Fluency (written and spoken)
• Prior experience as a Paralegal or within social services.
• Strong communication and computer literacy to manage and maintain up to date case records.

Preferred

• Master's degree in a related field of study 3-5 years relevant experience