Job Description
Boston Area Rape Crisis Center
Created: April 2022
Job Opportunity: Bilingual Immigration Paralegal / DOJ Accredited Representative
What we do
Since 1973, the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC) has been a leader in the movement to end sexual violence. BARCC empowers survivors of sexual violence to heal and provides education and advocacy for the social change needed to create cultures that prevent sexual violence. We rely on our dedicated, brilliant staff to do this important work, and our legal team is growing!
The role
Our Legal Advocacy & Immigration Legal Services Program is looking for a bilingual immigration paralegal / DOJ accredited representative to join our team. You’ll provide high quality, culturally competent legal consultation & representation services (after accreditation) to survivors of sexual violence regarding immigration needs under supervision of the Senior Bilingual Immigration Attorney, ensuring that their legal needs are met in alignment with BARCC’s mission and philosophy. Your work will directly further BARCC’s mission of ending sexual violence through healing and social change.
Where and when you’ll work
BARCC's staff, operations, hours, and location vary by function, type of work, and work style. You’ll primarily work from our Cambridge office, located at 99 Bishop Allen Drive with occasional local travel for client accompaniments and outreach. This is a 32-hour full-time position. You can expect to work regularly Monday through Friday.
What you’ll do
Seek and/or maintain DOJ accreditation.
Under supervision of Senior Bilingual Immigration attorney provide intake, legal consultations, and legal representation (after accreditation) to immigrant survivors of sexual violence and their faimilies before USCIS in accordance with BARCC’s survivor-centered and trauma informed approach.
Manage ongoing caseload .
Assist attorneys with forms, statements, cover letters, motions, petitions, and briefs.
Other administrative tasks as needed.
In collaboration with the Legal Advocacy Program develop referral networks and refer clients as needed to other legal services for immigration relief representation.
Provide culturally competent and trauma informed information to survivors about their options, including assessing for safety concerns, so they can make informed decisions.
Participate in immigration focused roundtables and community meetings.
Collaborate with Senior Immigration Attorney in outreach and legal education efforts for partner organizations and the immigrant communities that we serve.
Seek out and attend relevant professional development training and professional collaboration both within BARCC and the community.
Committed to BARCC’s mission to end sexual violence through healing and social change.
Be an ambassador of the organization, reflecting the values of teamwork, collaboration, inclusivity, and mutual respect.
You’ll bring
Bachelor’s degree and/or relevant work experience.
Bilingual fluency (oral, written, reading) in Spanish is required.
Some experience with immigration law, immigrant communities in the United States or providing direct service to clients.
Prior experience working with survivors of trauma and/or working with underserved communities.
Demonstrated vicarious trauma resilience.
Demonstrated understanding of the intersectionality of oppressions and of personal privilege.
Attention to detail, ability to multitask, strong verbal and written communication skills, and comfort working with a computer database and hybrid working (remote and in-person).
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Demonstrated commitment to BARCC’s mission and philosophy.
What we offer
The opportunity to make meaningful change and improve the lives of others through mission-driven work, at all levels of the organization
Signing Bonus of $1,000.00
A pilot 32-hour workweek to let our staff take a day to recharge, refocus, and revitalize, which are all key to continuing to make a meaningful impact for survivors.
Flexible work-from-home policies based on the latest public health guidance.
Comprehensive benefits
Starting salary range and benefits
Salary range $55-65,000, depending on experience and skills.
Total compensation package includes generous benefits options, such as:
Health
Dental
Vision
Three weeks paid vacation
Retirement plan
Hiring process and timeline
Please submit via our online application system your resume and cover letter stating your interest and related experience to be considered for this position. No phone calls, please. The full hiring process will include a phone-screen interview, first-round in-person interview, a skills assessment, and a final team interview. Reasonable accommodation is provided upon request.
About us
We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.