Department of Justice (DOJ) Accredited Application Specialist in Training (IDPL) - Citizenship
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Instituto del Progreso Latino is a community organization whose mission is to contribute to the fullest development of Latino(a) immigrants and their families through education, training and employment that fosters participation in the changing U.S. society while preserving cultural identity and dignity. Founded in 1977 to help Latino’s learn basic skills, pass the civil service exam and obtain higher paying post office jobs, Instituto has grown to a flourishing educational center serving over 14,000 Chicago families per year.
BASIC FUNCTION
Under the supervision of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Director, and the lead DOJ Accredited Specialist, the Accredited Application Specialist in Training is responsible for assisting directly in processing Citizenship (N-400) applications, collection and organization of supporting documentation, meeting with clients in follow up appointments, filling out initial N-400 applications at workshops, and diverse administrative support tasks directly related to N-400 clients. While in training the specialist will help schedule appointments, manage calendars, use data base software and paper filing systems, and interact in person and on-line with clients in the office and at workshops. The specialist in training helps to ensure that legal guidelines are followed, that filing documents is timely and adheres to departmental policies, providing superior customer service, and preparing weekly and monthly program reports. The Application Specialist in training assists in processing applications in the office and at workshops held on the weekend.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Helps to fill out diverse USCIS citizenship applications, the N-400, I-90, N-600, I-30, Deferred Action for Child Arrivals (DACA), and A-R11 applications, under the guidance and supervision of an accredited specialist, attorney, or lead DOJ specialist.
- Provides information to legal permanent residents in a one on one setting, assisting them directly on how to fill out the application.
- Studies and learns how to use USCIS and legal program guidelines to determine whether a legal permanent resident is eligible to file their application with IDPL.
- Helps to maintains data updated on all cases using IDPL internal databases and external funder report files, as well as filing the correct corresponding paper documents in the individual case file.
- Assist directly during citizenship workshops in any of the necessary steps needed to conduct the workshop: stations, set up, N-400 processing, fee waiver and others.
- Adheres to legal guidelines and best practices during all phases of processing citizenship applications.
- Participates in civic activities in support of the program or attends program meetings and trainings as requested.
- Participates in training on immigration policies and regulations.
- Works collaboratively and cooperatively with other IDPL staff, clients, and supervisors.
- Demonstrates an ability to work in a team with colleagues.
- Exhibits professional courtesy in dealing with program participants, colleagues, and team members, and the public.
- May work weekends and week nights as needed or requested in project based activities.
- Return client inquiries and phone messages in timely manner.
- Shows enthusiasm to assist legal permanent residents.
- Attend further professional development as indicated in employee evaluation.
- Performs other Citizenship program related duties as indicated by supervisor.
QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION
- Some college credits, and/or foreign equivalent, Bachelor’s degree preferred
- Obtain DOJ accreditation
- At least one year previous experience in a citizenship, legal, or nonprofit setting
- Bilingual English and Spanish, preferred
- Excellent oral and written communications skills
- Ability to maintain a high sense of confidentiality
- Able to work with a wide variety of people
- Exceptional organization and time management skills
- Above average customer service approach
- Ability to maintain composure under pressure
- Dependable and punctual
- Advanced skills with Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and the Internet
- Ability to use applications such as Zoom, Teams, Facebook Live, and other Video Chat applications
- Ability to use electronic software to fill out forms (USCIS online, or Law Logix)
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Nature of work requires an ability to sit or stand for long periods of time, speak during presentations in front of groups, and operate standard business office equipment. Requires ability to communicate and exchange information, collect, compile and prepare work documents, set-up and maintain work files.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Majority of work performed in an office environment and at community venues (churches, schools) held on weekends. Position requires availability for extended hours plus non-traditional hours required to perform job duties. Must be able to work weekends. Also requires participation and attendance at organization sponsored events and meetings.
Instituto del Progreso Latino is an Equal Opportunity Employer
