Immigration Paralegal

AGENCY BACKGROUND:

Northern Manhattan Improvement Corporation (NMIC) is a community-based, not-for-profit organization founded in 1979. NMIC has grown into a leading multi-service agency with over 140 staff members serving New York City with a focus on upper Manhattan and the Bronx. Our mission is to serve as a catalyst for positive change in the lives of the people in our community on their paths to secure and prosperous futures. Integration is the cornerstone of NMIC’s programs, and our staff can identify and address a broad array of immediate needs through comprehensive crisis intervention services. With their matters resolved, clients move seamlessly to capacity building services through our holistic programs designed to transition individuals and families to self-sufficiency.

• Our Legal, Organizing, Advocacy, and Weatherization programs meet community member’s basic needs including legal representation, immigration assistance, housing advocacy, tenant organizing, financial services, DV and health related matters
• Our Education & Career Services program impacts individual community members with the practical tools necessary to build secure and prosperous futures

Job Title: Immigration Paralegal

Department: Legal, Organizing & Advocacy

Reports To: Managing Immigration Attorney

Location: Main Office: 45 Wadsworth Avenue, NY, NY 10033

Bronx Office: 8 Clinton Place, BX, NY 10453

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES:

NMIC’s Immigration Paralegal works with our highly skilled and experienced, interdisciplinary legal team. Provide paralegal assistance to NMIC clients and clients referred to NMIC for issues related to immigration. Partner with attorneys with client immigration-related matters.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct intake and assess appropriate cases to determine eligibility for legal assistance in immigration matters.
• Prepare and file immigration applications on behalf of clients.
• Coordinate and provide application assistance for legal clinics.
• Research and analyze issues where appropriate.
• Provide support to immigration attorneys.
• Translate legal documents into English.
• Refer clients to appropriate legal and social services within and outside of NMIC.
• Maintain client database and client files.
• Perform administrative support services, including cataloging client mail.
• Participate in all unit, department, and agency meetings and/or trainings as required.

Additional related responsibilities may be assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s, associate degree or paralegal certificate with public interest experience degree preferred.
• Preference given to applicants with experience in immigration law.
• Bilingual skills in Spanish and/or French required.
• Strong organizational, writing, and advocating skills.
• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel.

SALARY: $58,500-$61,500

BENEFITS: NMIC offers a competitive salary based on experience and education as well as a comprehensive and generous benefits package: medical, dental, life, and disability insurance are included; paid time off, including 20 vacation days, 15 sick days, 5 personal days, and 11 agency holidays; plus the week off from Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day; a 401k with agency contribution; and other benefits.

NMIC IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: NMIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively encourages candidates of diverse backgrounds to apply for employment. Applicants must meet the minimum qualification requirements. A combination of education and experience will be considered unless specifically stated otherwise.