Migration Counselor

Job Title:       Migration Counselor – Haitian Response Initiative

Location:       New York City, NY

FLSA Status:       Full Time, Non-Exempt

Classification:     Administrative Support Worker

Department:       Immigrant and Refugee Services

Office:       Immigration Legal Services

Reports to:           Haitian Response Initiative Supervising Attorney

Supervisor Responsibilities: Yes_____ No___X____

Summary: The Migration Counselor will join Catholic Charities Community Services (CCCS) as part of the Haitian Response Initiative, an innovative initiative launched by the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, including Catholic Charities and seven culturally and linguistically competent community-based organizations in coalition to meet the unique needs of recently arrived Haitian migrants facing removal proceedings in New York City. The Migration Counselor will provide immigration services under attorney supervision, including consultations, document preparation, application assistance, affidavit and brief writing, and necessary follow-up services. The Migration Counselor will also prepare and deliver presentations on various immigration issues.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Administrative and Clerical responsibilities:

1. Under the supervision of an attorney, participate in regular screening and self-help workshop events at the partner community-based organization sites, the main CCCS office, and remotely.
2. Under the supervision of an attorney, provide information sessions and Know Your Rights presentations to the community.
3. Under the supervision of an attorney, pre-screen for eligibility for immigration benefits.
4. Under the supervision of an attorney, prepare, review, complete, submit, and follow-up on applications and motions in complex types of immigration matters, including but not limited to: asylum, special immigrant juvenile status, adjustment of status applications, employment authorization applications, and other forms of humanitarian relief and removal defense.
5. Research law and investigate facts to determine possible course of legal action and to prepare cases accordingly.
6. Assist clients to obtain the documents necessary to apply for relief, fill out appropriate forms, and follow up with clients via phone, mail and email.
7. Prepare and make referrals to other legal service providers for cases identified through individual consultations and follow up with referral partners to track status of case acceptance.
8. Provide referrals for wraparound services from coalition partners.
9. Create and maintain physical and electronic files, including managing correspondence with clients and documenting correspondence with immigration and other agencies.
10. Manage data entry in internal (LLX) and external data management systems and assist with generating reports.
11. Maintain and report statistical data as required.
12. Assist with the training of new staff.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work:

This is a full-time position that will require working part-time at the several community-based organization sites. The remaining time will be spent performing case work at CCCS’ office and remotely. Days and hours of work are generally 9:00 AM to 5 PM Monday - Friday. Position requires willingness to travel to the CBOs, courts and availability to work some weekend and evening hours. Additional hours are required to meet court and/or program deadlines, or client needs.

Working conditions and physical demands required:

The demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

•         Travel at least 50% of the time using public transportation or vehicle, traverse city streets, occasionally ascend/descend stairs, and be exposed to outside weather conditions.

•         Remain stationary at a work station and in meetings, and use a computer at least 50% of the time.

•         Remain stationary and/or ambulate to instruct and monitor during trainings and presentations.

•         Carry a laptop to offsite work locations.

Qualifications

Education and/or experience required:

1. Bachelor’s degree in related field, or equivalent professional training related to the position.

Skills, Licenses, and/or competencies required:

1. Bilingual: English and Haitian Creole.
2. Effective communications skills, including written and verbal.
3. Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills.
4. Ability and experience working with diverse individuals and communities.
5. Ability to work in a fast‐paced, high intensity environment.
6. Willingness to travel and to work part-time on location at immigration courts.
7. Availability and readiness to work some weekend and evening hours.
8. A plus, but not required:
   1. Experience working as an immigration legal administrative assistant or advocate; and
   2. Demonstrated a commitment to social justice issues and experience working in a non-profit, court, or community setting.