Paralegal - Immigrant Legal Defense, NIJC

About NIJC The National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) advances human rights and due process for immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers through direct legal services, impact litigation, advocacy, and public education. Headquartered in Chicago with offices in Washington, DC, Indiana, and San Diego, NIJC’s team of 100 attorneys, paralegals, and professionals, along with 2,000 pro‑bono attorneys, is at the forefront of immigration reform. Job Summary The Paralegal provides general paralegal support for the Immigrant Legal Defense team and the Post Asylee Refugee Benefits Pro‑bono Project. The paralegal conducts intake, research, case review, documentation preparation and other related tasks to support general operations and the work of staff and pro‑bono attorneys. This position requires Spanish and/or French fluency, the ability to engage in community outreach, and to provide legal consultations at off‑site locations. Individual accountability and work volume will be established through the development of annual Success Objectives. Essential Duties And Responsibilities Conduct intake, as assigned. Conduct legal and factual research. Assess cases to determine eligibility. Conduct interviews with clients and witnesses. Draft applications, affidavits, letters, and/or legal pleadings and prepare supporting documentation. Prepare materials for submission to the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration Court, or other entities as appropriate. Review, analyze, and present cases to supervisor. Track individual cases and outcomes. Interpret and translate for department and other organization staff as needed, including at USCIS and ICE interviews and appointments. Represent NIJC at clinics and events with stakeholders, including pro‑bono partners. Remain current on immigration law, policies, and procedures. Maintain complete, thorough, accurate, and current records in an organized fashion in accordance with legal standards, rules, and ethics. Ensure the accuracy, substance, and timeliness of statistical and narrative reports, projects, schedules, and other relevant work products. In accordance with organizational policies and the ethical standards required of the legal profession, the Code of Professional Responsibility preserves client confidentiality, accounts for client monies, and avoids conflicts of interest. Other duties may be assigned. Core Competencies Strategic Thinking and Judgment – Makes thoughtful, informed decisions that consider client needs, legal requirements, and NIJC’s mission. Operational Excellence – Delivers accurate, timely, and well‑organized work. Maintains strong documentation practices and follows processes that support high‑quality legal services. Cross‑Functional Collaboration – Works effectively with attorneys, paralegals, pro‑bono partners, and community organizations. Shares information, communicates clearly, and contributes to a supportive team environment. Equity‑Centered Decision‑Making – Approaches decisions with fairness, awareness, and respect for the lived experiences of immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. Communication and Influence – Communicates clearly and compassionately with clients, colleagues, and partners. Change Navigation and Adaptability – Responds effectively to shifting policies, priorities, and client needs. Maintains flexibility in a fast‑paced environment and adjusts workflows as circumstances evolve. Client Service Orientation – Demonstrates empathy, patience, and professionalism, especially when clients are navigating trauma or uncertainty. Problem Solving and Continuous Improvement – Identifies issues early, proposes solutions, and seeks ways to strengthen processes. Technical Skills Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) Case management system familiarity (e.g., Legal Server) Accurate and timely maintenance of case data for reporting and compliance Proficiency with communication platforms (Teams, Zoom, SharePoint) Strong document drafting and version control Ability to maintain organized, audit‑ready client files Qualifications Bachelor’s degree with demonstrated experience working with immigrants, refugees, and/or asylum seekers. At least one year of experience working with these populations is preferred. Proficiency in Spanish is required; regular communication with clients in Spanish. Proficiency in French is acceptable. Strong writing, editing, organizational, and computer skills. Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and perform well under strict deadlines. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Physical Abilities Statement Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time. The position occasionally requires moving within the office to access filing cabinets, office machinery, etc. Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a copy machine. It is the policy of NIJC not to discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of age, color, sex, disability, national origin, race, religion, or veteran status. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. #J-18808-Ljbffr