Paralegal (Immigration)

Company: Westside Justice Center
Location: Chicago
Posted on: February 18, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Salary: $26-$28/hr. The Westside Justice Center is growing and adding new roles to our team! Unleash your legal prowess and make a difference with the Westside Justice Center! Join our passionate team as a Part-Time Paralegal (Immigration) and play a vital role in advancing access to justice for immigrant families and individuals navigating the U.S. immigration system. Founded in 2015, the Westside Justice Center (WJC) is not just a workplaceits a mission-driven Legal Aid clinic dedicated to eradicating barriers to justice and uplifting authentic community leadership. As a Paralegal, youll support our Legal Services team by assisting attorneys with U.S. immigration caseworkincluding family-based petitions, asylum applications, adjustment of status, citizenship/naturalization, and other humanitarian relief filings. Youll engage directly with clients, assist in case preparation, and help ensure that all filings meet the technical and procedural standards required under U.S. immigration law. If youre passionate about social justice, immigrant rights, and empowering diverse communities, we invite you to join us. Responsibilities Assist attorneys in preparing, organizing, and filing U.S. immigration applications and petitions. Conduct intake interviews and gather supporting evidence (birth certificates, affidavits, country condition documents, etc.). Draft and proofread immigration forms, client declarations, and legal correspondence. Conduct legal and factual research on immigration law, regulations, and USCIS procedures. Track case deadlines, maintain case management systems, and monitor client communications. Coordinate and track referrals to attorneys, partner organizations, and community service agencies. Prepare case summaries, exhibits, and documentation for submission to USCIS, EOIR, and related agencies. Support immigration workshops, community education events, and legal clinics as needed. Successful Candidates Will Possess Paralegal Certificate from an American Bar Associationapproved program (required). At least 2 years of experience in a legal setting, with direct immigration law experience in a nonprofit, law firm, or legal aid environment. Strong working knowledge of U.S. immigration processes and filings (USCIS, EOIR, NVC). Proficiency in Haitian Creole, Spanish, or other languages spoken within African and Caribbean diaspora communities (such as Yoruba, Swahili, or Amharic) is highly preferred. Exceptional attention to detail and ability to manage multiple active cases. Strong interpersonal and communication skills with diverse client populations. Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively within a legal team. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with case management databases. A deep commitment to WJCs mission of advancing justice and equity for underserved communities. NOTE: A copy of your official transcripts, professional license, or training certificates will be required at the time of interview, if applicable. Benefits: Community Impact Health Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Paid Time Off 401(k) retirement plan Work Environment The work environment described here is representative of that an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation(s) may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This job operates in a professional office environment. The role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones and photocopiers Ability to communicate verbally Ability to spend extended time working on a computer Occasional need for local travel Compensation Actual compensation is determined based on a wide array of relevant factors including market considerations, business needs, and an individual's location, skills, level of experience, and qualifications. Target salary hiring range: $26$28 per hour, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive statement of duties, requirements, or responsibilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an at will relationship. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The Westside Justice Center is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and is committed to maintaining an inclusive environment free from discrimination and harassment. We prohibit discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Consistent with our mission to advance justice and equity, people of color, women, LGBTQI-GNC individuals, immigrants, and formerly incarcerated people are strongly encouraged to apply.

Keywords: Westside Justice Center, Elmhurst , Paralegal (Immigration), Legal , Chicago, Illinois