Intake Specialist

Intake SpecialistThe Immigration Intake Specialist plays a vital role in the initial screening and administrative coordination of immigration legal services at a Department of Justice (DOJ) accredited organization. This position serves as the first point of contact for individuals seeking services and is responsible for gathering case information, determining eligibility, maintaining client records, managing client communication, and supporting data and reporting functions. The Intake Specialist also facilitates English language and citizenship preparation classes and provides interpretation, translation, and outreach support. This position does not provide legal advice and works under the supervision of a DOJ-accredited representative or immigration attorney.Client Services & IntakeConduct phone and in-person interviews to determine eligibility for services and gather basic case factsProvide clients with guidance on next steps, required documentation, and available resourcesRefer ineligible clients to legal service providers or community-based resourcesCommunicate case status updates, request documents, and schedule appointmentsInterpret for clients during internal appointments and translate immigration-related documentsCase Management & RecordkeepingMaintain accurate and timely records of client interactions and case notes in both electronic databases and physical filesInput and update client data in case management systems and internal spreadsheetsPrepare case summaries, draft correspondences, and file legal documents under supervisionSubmit monthly scholarship invoices and manage tracking of client payments and fee waiversComplete monthly and quarterly reports in compliance with agency and state mandatesProgram Support & CoordinationProvide administrative support to the immigration team, including maintaining office supplies and managing incoming/outgoing mailCoordinate with other SCC programs to ensure clients receive comprehensive, wraparound servicesMaintain and update program manuals, forms, and internal process documentsPrepare outreach materials such as flyers, presentations, and handoutsEducation & Community EngagementFacilitate weekly in-person and remote English as a Second Language (ESL) and multi-level citizenship preparation classesConduct pre- and post-assessments of students to evaluate English proficiency and program impactParticipate in outreach, community events, and networking activities to raise awareness of immigration servicesProfessional Development & SupervisionMentor and supervise student interns assisting with program and case activitiesCollaborate with the Program Director to assess the overall effectiveness of intake and client support servicesAttend relevant training, conferences, and continuing education opportunities to pursue DOJ partial accreditation eligibilityMinimum QualificationsAssociate degree in social services, legal studies, or education requiredMinimum 1 year of experience in a nonprofit, legal services, or community-based settingPrevious legal experience (legal nonprofit, law firm, courthouse, government agency) highly preferredFluent in reading, writing and speaking in Spanish and EnglishExperience facilitating group classes or training is a plusMust be eligible for DOJ partial accreditation and obtain accreditation within the first year of employmentKnowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesKnowledge of modern office practices and procedures as well as operation and use of computer hardware, software and network systems including MS Office suite, Word and ExcelDemonstrated high quality interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skillsHigh degree of cultural sensitivity and ability to work effectively with families from diverse racial, socio-economic, ethnic, faith and educational backgroundsAbility to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, mission-driven environmentPhysical and Work Environment RequirementsRegular travel to a second site in KankakeeAbility to sit, stand, or walk for extended periodsMay involve occasional evening or weekend work depending on client needs and eventsCompensation: $20.00 per hour