Immigration Staff Attorney (Asylum)

Staff Attorney (Asylum and Removal Defense) About Project Rousseau: Project Rousseau is a non-profit organization that empowers youth in communities in the greatest need to excel in higher education. The majority of the young people served by Project Rousseau are homeless and/or asylum seekers; Project Rousseau is at the forefront of the humanitarian migrant crisis in New York City. Position Overview Through Project Rousseau’s Immigration Legal Services, we provide a pathway to hope and opportunity. We believe that every young person, regardless of their circumstances, deserves the chance to pursue their educational goals with dignity and without fear. We empower young people to navigate the complexities of the immigration system, understand their rights, and pursue pathways to legal status and stability. We aim to ensure that young people have access to high-quality legal representation and support as they seek to build their futures. Project Rousseau seeks a Staff Attorney (Asylum and Removal Defense) to represent immigrant youth and families in a range of immigration matters, with an emphasis on applications for asylum. This is a full-time, on-site position based in Manhattan, New York. The successful candidate will be comfortable preparing for and conducting individual merits hearings, including developing case strategy, preparing clients and witnesses to testify, and presenting legal arguments before the Immigration Judge. The attorney will primarily represent non-detained community members, though representation of detained clients may be required as needs arise. The attorney will also handle master calendar hearings and other court appearances, as well as affirmative asylum and adjustment of status matters. Depending on organizational needs, the attorney may also represent clients in related matters, including SIJS proceedings in Family Court and cancellation of removal cases. Responsibilities include: Represent clients in removal proceedings, including asylum and other forms of protection from removal. Prepare and conduct individual merits hearings, including direct examination, cross-examination, evidentiary submissions, and oral argument. Develop case strategy and prepare pleadings, applications, motions, and briefs. Coordinate with supporting legal team to develop client’s declarations, and supporting evidentiary documentation. Prepare clients and witnesses for interviews, hearings, and testimony, using trauma-informed and age-appropriate practices. Represent clients before the immigration courts and USCIS, and coordinate with other agencies and service providers as needed. Maintain accurate case records, meet filing deadlines, and manage a caseload effectively. Work collaboratively with Project Rousseau colleagues to connect clients with appropriate legal and nonlegal support. Explain legal processes, options, and developments to clients in a clear and accessible manner. Participate in case consultations, training, and other team activities. Qualifications and Requirements: Education and Licensing: Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school. Active bar license in any U.S. jurisdiction. Experience: At least 1 year of demonstrated experience in immigration law, encompassing removal defense and asylum Preferred: 2+ years of experience in immigration law or a related field. Skills and Attributes: Strong interest in adopting a comprehensive approach to addressing the needs of young people and their families. Demonstrated creativity in problem-solving and a knack for innovative thinking. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal. Excellent organizational skills, including time management, record-keeping, and the ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines independently. Exceptional interpersonal skills, enabling effective collaboration with young people, management, and program staff. Preferred: Fluency in Spanish, French or Pulaar. Values and Commitment: Deep commitment to social justice and a passion for serving immigrant communities. Demonstrated ability to handle complex and sensitive matters with discretion, empathy, and sound judgment. Work Schedule: Full-time, 35 hours per week Job Location: 1560 Broadway, NY, 10036. Please note this is an in-person role. Candidates should be comfortable with being in-person at least 4 days per week. Salary Range: $72,500 to $95,000/year Benefits: Employer contribution to ICHRA (Healthcare Reimbursement) #J-18808-Ljbffr