Immigration Paralegal for New Arrivals (Bilingual English/Spanish)

THE ORGANIZATION

Jacob A. Riis Neighborhood Settlement (Riis Settlement), a community-based non-profit organization offering comprehensive services to the youth, adults, seniors, immigrants and families of Western Queens, is dedicated to civic engagement and organizing as integral to our mission “to build and strengthen underserved communities and act as a catalyst for change.” For more information about Jacob A Riis Neighborhood Settlement, please view our website at www.riissettlement.org.

JOB SUMMARY

Riis Settlement is seeking a full-time bilingual (English/Spanish) Immigration Paralegal  with a commitment to immigrant rights to join our nonprofit legal services program based in Queens. Our program has received funding to expand our legal services to asylum seekers and migrants who have recently arrived in NYC. Under the supervision of the Immigration Attorney, the Paralegal will provide immigration legal screenings and application assistance to asylum seekers. The Paralegal joins the organization’s legal team, including one Attorney, two DOJ accredited representatives, and one paralegal working across two program sites in LIC and Sunnyside, Queens. This is a temporary, contract-based position through August 14, 2025 with the possibility of extension if funding is renewed. 

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Major Duties & Responsibilities

• Serve as the first point of contact for recently arrived immigrants in need of legal services and information.

• Schedule and conduct intake appointments to screen asylum seekers for eligibility for immigration benefits and relief.

• Prepare immigration applications, affidavits, and supporting documents for relief cases including Asylum, Temporary protected status (TPS), employment authorization (EAD).

• Assist clients with other urgent legal needs including filing change of address, contacting ICE for check-ins, and drafting motions to change venue.

• Assist clients with obtaining all documents and information necessary for their cases.

• Perform administrative tasks including photocopying, scanning, and mailing relevant documents to assist in the preparation of applications.

• Notify clients by phone, email, video conference, or mail about matters related to their case and conduct follow-up as necessary.

• Coordinate with immigration staff to facilitate referrals to legal services and other resources, where appropriate.

• Track and report on the outcome of each screening, case opened, case outcomes, and any referrals made. Maintain updated client files and case notes in electronic databases.

• Monitor and evaluate program data in accordance with deliverables for program grants (Current grant = 170 applications completed per year).

• Work with the attorney to plan and host pro se legal clinics for asylum seekers, including scheduling clients and training volunteers to assist with screenings and applications.

Additional Responsibilities

• Attend weekly supervision meetings and monthly program meetings.

• Provide translation assistance with English/Spanish as needed by translating legal documents, drafting correspondence, and interpreting for client meetings.

• Stay informed on U.S. immigration laws and procedures through attending regular trainings, with the goal of applying for accreditation with the Department of Justice.

• Conduct outreach for legal services including by phone, email, and in-person events.

STATEMENT OF SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

• Bilingual English/Spanish required; additional languages preferred.

• Bachelor’s Degree

• Previous experience in immigration legal services and knowledge of immigration law and procedures strongly preferred.

• Excellent organizational and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

• Ability to maintain complete and accurate data, with keen attention to detail.

• Personal integrity in handling ethically complex and confidential situations.

• Demonstrated ability to be a strong team member in a collaborative nonprofit environment.

• Committed to providing service in a manner that is sensitive to people of diverse cultures and backgrounds.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and G-Suite.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

Benefits:

• Generous Paid Time Off package of 13 holidays, 12 sick days, 10 days of vacation, and 6 personal days.

• Retirement plan with 50% employer match up to 6% of total salary

• Student Loan Assistance and Education Assistance

• Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance

• EAP Services