Farmworker Rights Advocate

We are excited to be included in a new California program providing free legal services to immigrants who may be eligible for relief under the recently enacted Deferred Action for Workers in Labor Disputes policy. We are eager to make this relief accessible to the many farmworkers in our region who may be eligible.

VIDAS seeks a bilingual (Spanish-English, intermediate fluency considered) Paralegal to work alongside the Farmworker Rights Attorney in advocating for laborers who may be eligible. A substantial part of this role includes outreach and education, so the willingness to be offsite and engage directly with community is essential.

The Farmworker Rights Paralegal will report to the Farmworker Rights Attorney and will be expected to:

• Become knowledgeable about the Deferred Action for Workers in Labor Disputes program, eligibility requirements, and best practices;
• Screen clients for eligibility and assess the best course of action in consideration with other forms of immigration relief and any risks;
• Support direct representation to eligible farmworkers, including assisting the attorney with filing applications for relief and any required follow up;
• Engage in client-centered, thoughtful, communicative advocacy, including responding to clients quickly and being engaged and available throughout the process;
• Attend mandatory program trainings;
• Co-create and present training/guidance materials and comprehensive educational campaigns across multiple platforms about the deferred action program, eligibility requirements, and processes;
• Support Attorney with additional project management tasks as needed

PREFERRED SKILLS

• At least 1 to 3 years of experience as a Paralegal, preferably in immigration or labor law
• Life experience within the farmworker community
• A strong record of cultural competence and cross-cultural communication skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across organizational and community settings
• Keen ability to genuinely listen, synthesize information, and articulate information clearly and effectively
• Genuine passion for advocacy
• Ability to speak, comprehend, read and write in Spanish;
• California driver’s license and vehicle for travel

Salary

Starting wage is $22 per hour. Benefits include full medical coverage (Kaiser Gold), 13 paid holidays, generous paid time off and sick leave allowances, career development and coalition building opportunities.

To Apply

• Applications, including a cover letter and resume should be emailed to our Executive Director, Monica Julian, at mjulian@vidaslegal.org
• Applications should be submitted as soon as possible. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled, and applicants selected for interviews will be duly notified.
• VIDAS is an EOE committed to inclusive hiring and dedicated to diversity in both its staff and work.
• This position is a two year term with potential to extend pending funding or with potential for lateral transfer to other areas of immigration advocacy