JOB TITLE Intake Specialist
PROGRAM: Citizenship and Immigration (C&I)
REPORTS TO: Citizenship and Immigration Director
EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-time
FLSA CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt
WORK SCHEDULE: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
HOURLY RATE: $20
POSITION SUMMARY
The Immigration Intake Specialist plays a vital role in the initial screening and administrative coordination of immigration legal services at a Department of Justice (DOJ) accredited organization. This position serves as the first point of contact for individuals seeking services and is responsible for gathering case information, determining eligibility, maintaining client records, managing client communication, and supporting data and reporting functions. The Intake Specialist also facilitates English language and citizenship preparation classes and provides interpretation, translation, and outreach support. This position does not provide legal advice and works under the supervision of a DOJ-accredited representative or immigration attorney.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Client Services & Intake
- Conduct phone and in-person interviews to determine eligibility for services and gather basic case facts
- Provide clients with guidance on next steps, required documentation, and available resources
- Refer ineligible clients to legal service providers or community-based resources
- Communicate case status updates, request documents, and schedule appointments
- Interpret for clients during internal appointments and translate immigration-related documents
Case Management & Recordkeeping
- Maintain accurate and timely records of client interactions and case notes in both electronic databases and physical files
- Input and update client data in case management systems and internal spreadsheets
- Prepare case summaries, draft correspondences, and file legal documents under supervision
- Submit monthly scholarship invoices and manage tracking of client payments and fee waivers
- Complete monthly and quarterly reports in compliance with agency and state mandates
Program Support & Coordination
- Provide administrative support to the immigration team, including maintaining office supplies and managing incoming/outgoing mail
- Coordinate with other SCC programs to ensure clients receive comprehensive, wraparound services
- Maintain and update program manuals, forms, and internal process documents
- Prepare outreach materials such as flyers, presentations, and handouts
Education & Community Engagement
- Facilitate weekly in-person and remote English as a Second Language (ESL) and multi-level citizenship preparation classes
- Conduct pre- and post-assessments of students to evaluate English proficiency and
program impact
- Participate in outreach, community events, and networking activities to raise awareness of immigration services
Professional Development & Supervision
- Mentor and supervise student interns assisting with program and case activities
- Collaborate with the Program Director to assess the overall effectiveness of intake and client support services
- Attend relevant training, conferences, and continuing education opportunities to pursue DOJ partial accreditation eligibility
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Associate degree in social services, legal studies, or education required
- Minimum 1 year of experience in a nonprofit, legal services, or community-based setting
- Previous legal experience (legal nonprofit, law firm, courthouse, government agency) highly preferred
- Fluent in reading, writing and speaking in Spanish and English
- Experience facilitating group classes or training is a plus
- Must be eligible for DOJ partial accreditation and obtain accreditation within the first year of employment
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
- Knowledge of modern office practices and procedures as well as operation and use of computer hardware, software and network systems including MS Office suite, Word and Excel
- Demonstrated high quality interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
- High degree of cultural sensitivity and ability to work effectively with families from diverse racial, socio-economic, ethnic, faith and educational backgrounds
- Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment
PHYSICAL AND WORK ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS
- Regular travel to a second site in Kankakee
- Ability to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods
- May involve occasional evening or weekend work depending on client needs and events
DISCLAIMER
This job description is not intended to be a contract. Duties and responsibilities may change based on organizational needs.
BENEFITS
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
401k
Paid time off
History
The Spanish Community Center (SCC) has a special place in Will County’s history as an example of what a small group of committed individuals can do to make a difference.
Over 50 years ago, the Adler, Maher, and Hernandez personally responded to the needs of the migrant community in Joliet by founding the SCC out of a house located at 205 Herkimer St, before relocating to its current location in the early 1980's.
Today, the SCC stays true to its mission of serving as Will County’s only bilingual one-stop shop of social and educational services. Although originally focused on Spanish-speaking peoples, we proudly serve individuals of all backgrounds.
Our Mission
The Spanish Community Center helps improve the life for Latinos, immigrants, and low income people through educational and social services.
Our Vision
The Spanish Community Center is a bridge to the well-being of all members in an inclusive and engaged community.
Our Values
- Excellence
- Trust through integrity
- Welcoming environment through empathy and respect for all
- Belief in the potential of each individual
- Advocacy for and with the community
- The power of a diverse local community
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