Immigration Counselor (DOJ Accreditation Track)

Build a Career in Immigration Legal Services Catholic Charities of Fairfield County is seeking a motivated, bilingual professional to join our Immigration Services Program as an Immigration Counselor at our Danbury Family Center. This position is designed as a professional development pathway toward Department of Justice (DOJ) Accreditation. The selected candidate will receive extensive training, supervision, mentorship, and hands-on experience in immigration legal services while working toward DOJ Partial Accreditation and eventually Full Accreditation. This is an ideal opportunity for someone interested in immigration law, social justice, nonprofit legal services, or public interest work who is eager to develop into an accredited immigration legal representative. Position Summary The Immigration Counselor provides immigration legal services under the supervision of the Director of Immigration Services and senior DOJ Accredited Representatives. The position serves as the primary immigration services staff member at the Danbury Family Center and is responsible for client consultations, case preparation, outreach activities, and day-to-day program operations. The successful candidate will work independently while receiving ongoing legal supervision, case review, mentorship, and technical support. Career Development Pathway Catholic Charities is committed to investing in the professional growth of this position.

The selected candidate will:

Complete DOJ-recognized immigration law training upon hire. Pursue DOJ Partial Accreditation within 18 months of employment. Gain hands-on experience providing immigration legal services under supervision. Work toward DOJ Full Accreditation within approximately three years. Receive ongoing mentorship, legal supervision, and continuing legal education opportunities. Continued employment in this role is contingent upon satisfactory progress toward accreditation goals and compliance with DOJ Recognition and Accreditation Program requirements. Responsibilities Immigration Legal Services Conduct immigration screenings and client consultations under supervision. Assess eligibility for immigration benefits and relief. Prepare and submit immigration applications and supporting documentation with USCIS, NVC, and EOIR. Assist clients with Requests for Evidence (RFEs), interview preparation, and case follow-up. Attend USCIS interviews as an accredited representative or interpreter when appropriate. Maintain accurate case files and documentation. Program Operations Serve as the primary immigration services staff member at the Danbury Family Center. Manage scheduling, client intake, and initial case assessments. Collect service fees and assist with accounting deposits and reporting requirements. Maintain case records and update client activities in the case management database. Compile and report program statistics and outcomes. Community Outreach Participate in educational workshops, community presentations, and outreach events. Build relationships with community organizations and internal Catholic Charities programs. Promote awareness of available immigration services. Occasionally participate in evening or weekend events. Professional Responsibilities Complete annual continuing legal education and immigration law training requirements. Stay informed regarding changes in immigration law, policy, and procedures. Maintain confidentiality and ethical standards at all times. Translate and interpret documents as needed. Travel to Family Centers, USCIS offices, legal clinics, community partner locations, and training events. Qualifications Required Bachelor's degree preferred; equivalent experience considered. Equivalent experience may include 2-3 years working in a legal, nonprofit, social service, or related professional environment. Demonstrated commitment to serving immigrant and refugee communities. Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish (written and spoken). Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. Ability to work independently while receiving direct and remote supervision. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and general computer applications. Valid driver's license and reliable transportation. Ability to work effectively with culturally diverse populations. Preferred Experience in immigration legal services, nonprofit organizations, or social service programs. Familiarity with immigration law, USCIS forms, and immigration procedures. Experience providing case management or client services. What We Offer Structured pathway toward DOJ Accreditation. Professional immigration law training and continuing education. Ongoing mentorship from experienced DOJ Accredited Representatives. Meaningful work serving immigrant families and communities. Opportunity to build a long-term career in immigration legal services. Supportive, mission-driven team environment. Mission Commitment Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to the mission, goals, and values of Catholic Charities of Fairfield County and a passion for serving vulnerable and diverse communities with dignity, respect, and compassion. Please submit letter of interest along with resume. Inquiries/submissions from staffing agencies not accepted. Catholic Charities of Fairfield County is an

Equal Opportunity Employer Pay:

Up to $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person