Legal Assistant

U.S. COMM FOR REFUGE • Des Moines, IA

8h

About The Position

The U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI) supports people who have lost or left their homes. For over 100 years, the unwavering commitment of our leadership, team, network of service providers, and advocates has helped redirect the destiny of countless vulnerable lives. In neighborhoods, in Washington, and around the world, we break down barriers and demand justice for refugees and immigrants as they successfully integrate into new communities. We provide essential social and legal services to rebuild productive lives, turning tragedy into prosperity. We are a purpose driven organization with a mission to protect the rights and address the needs of persons in forced or voluntary migration worldwide and supporting their transition to a dignified life. To learn more about our work, please visit our website at www.refugees.org.

USCRI has received funding as part of the Department of Justice's Office for Victims of Crime to provide culturally appropriate and trauma-informed case management and legal services to Des Moines area foreign national victims of crime.

USCRI seeks to hire an experienced bilingual legal assistant who can professionally conduct the duties and responsibilities listed herein throughout the duration of the grant period at an office located in or nearby Des Moines, Iowa.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution or equivalent experience;
• Two (2) years of experience working in a legal or similar setting preferred;
• Fluency in written and oral Spanish;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• Commitment to working in a diverse and challenging working environment;
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently;
• Proficiency in MS Word, MS Access, MS Excel and database programs;
• Must pass a criminal background and other screening requirements;
• Candidate must have dedication to the human rights of refugees, immigrants, asylum seekers and displaced people;
• Demonstrated support of USCRI’s values by exhibiting respect for others, maintenance of confidential information and an appreciation of a multicultural workplace.

Responsibilities

• Monitor incoming communication and promptly respond to potential clients and/or their sponsors looking for legal support;
• Make appropriate referrals to other service providers and relevant community partners;
• Support current collaborations with providers of services to immigrants and refugees;
• Perform administrative, data-collection tasks, and reporting duties as assigned;
• Maintain a basic knowledge of relevant laws, policies and trends in law affecting the target population; and
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned by the Staff Attorney and the Supervisory Attorney.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level