Administrative Supervisor, Immigration Legal Services

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization that helps people affected by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. Established in 1933, the IRC operates in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities, providing assistance to millions of people each year. The organization is dedicated to helping those in need, regardless of race, religion, or nationality, and focuses on empowering individuals and communities to achieve self-sufficiency and resilience. The IRC employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working collaboratively with local partners and communities to deliver effective programs and services.

Job Overview:
The Administrative Supervisor, Immigration Legal Services is a pivotal role within the IRC, aimed at enhancing the delivery of immigration legal services to clients. This position requires the individual to seek accreditation from the US Department of Justice (DOJ) within three months of hire, enabling them to represent clients in immigration matters before the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The supervisor will provide oversight and support to the immigration legal staff, ensuring that they adhere to IRC policies and maintain high standards of service delivery. The role involves a combination of program supervision, data management, community outreach, and collaboration with the Managing Attorney to foster a supportive and effective legal team. The Administrative Supervisor will also play a key role in mentoring and developing the skills of less experienced staff, thereby contributing to the overall success of the immigration legal program.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Administrative Supervisor will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: supporting the Managing Attorney in supervising legal representatives and assistants, ensuring compliance with IRC Immigration Program Policies Manual, and promoting professional development among the legal staff. They will assist in maintaining quality assurance systems for the immigration team, reviewing case loads and work processes, and ensuring accurate documentation of client work in Lolly Law. The supervisor will also represent the IRC at community meetings and events, contributing to outreach strategies and fostering relationships with community partners. Additionally, they will support the completion of program reports required by funding sources and track performance metrics to ensure the program meets its objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in immigration law, with at least 2 to 3 years of experience representing individuals before USCIS as a partially accredited DOJ Representative. Supervisory experience is highly desirable, with at least one year of experience preferred. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of IRC's scope of practice, including adjustments of status applications and citizenship applications. Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, are essential, along with the ability to train and mentor staff. A proven understanding of legal ethics and the ability to instruct others on professional conduct is also required. Organizational skills and the ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment are critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
An undergraduate degree is required for this position. Candidates should have a solid educational foundation that supports their understanding of immigration law and legal processes. Additional certifications or training in immigration law or related fields may be beneficial and enhance a candidate's qualifications.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 2 to 3 years of professional experience in immigration legal services, specifically representing clients before USCIS. Experience in a supervisory role is highly desirable, and candidates with experience supervising interns may also be considered. The ability to demonstrate a track record of effective legal representation and staff development is crucial for this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and oral communication skills required. Additionally, proficiency in another language that is commonly spoken by the client group, such as Arabic, Swahili, French, or Haitian-Creole, is strongly preferred and will enhance the candidate's ability to serve diverse populations effectively.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in a standard office environment, with occasional participation in community outreach and legal assistance events. The role may require occasional weekend and/or evening work. The compensation for this position ranges from $66,000 to $70,000, depending on various factors such as labor market conditions, job type, and individual candidate experience. The IRC is committed to equal opportunity employment and adheres to professional standards that promote integrity, service, equality, and accountability. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, medical and dental insurance, retirement savings plans, and an Employee Assistance Program.