Asylum Seeker Legal Team Intern (Unpaid)

International Rescue Committee•New York, NY

About The Position

The Asylum Seeker Legal Services Intern will assist immigration legal staff in providing services to asylum seekers and other immigrants. This role involves working closely with immigration staff to draft applications (such as Asylum, Employment Authorization, TPS, etc.) and provide follow-up communication to clients. The intern will also perform a series of clerical and administrative duties to ensure client files are kept up to date.

Requirements

Minimum 15 hours per week; preference for those that can work 35+ hours.
Undergraduate level studies in social sciences, international relations or a related field or current law student.
Proficiency in Spanish required
Ability to work independently, exercise good judgement, and have high attention to detail.
Competency in Microsoft Office, data tracking, and file management
Effective communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
Patience, understanding, flexibility, and an unceasingly positive attitude.
Willing to learn about IRC history, philosophy, global work, and local efforts.
Willing to adhere to IRC volunteer and workplace policies

Nice To Haves

Languages desired but not required: French, Dari/Pashto, Arabic

Responsibilities

Assist immigration staff in providing services to clients, including setting up legal consultations and drafting immigration applications under the supervision of an immigration attorney.
Perform research on various immigration issues
Assist staff with sorting and filing of documents and case files.
Adhere to IRC policies, particularly those related to confidentiality and client privacy.
Display sensitivity to cultural and personality differences of clients. Respect their beliefs and values.
Perform follow-up communication to clients.
Provide translation and interpretation when necessary.
Other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

10 sick days
10 US holidays
20-25 paid time off days depending on role and tenure
medical insurance starting at $163 per month
dental starting at $6.50 per month
vision starting at $5 per month
FSA for healthcare and commuter costs
a 403b retirement savings plans with immediately vested matching
disability & life insurance
Employee Assistance Program which is available to our staff and their families to support counseling and care in times of crisis and mental health struggles.