Pro Bono Coordinator

Description:

PURPOSE STATEMENT

The Pro Bono Coordinator supports Ayuda’s pro bono program by managing case placements, mentoring volunteer attorneys, and facilitating both virtual and in-person legal clinics. The Coordinator also maintains a small caseload to provide direct client representation as an attorney or DOJ Accredited rep (under the supervision of a licensed attorney). This role combines program management with client services to ensure the effective delivery of high-quality pro bono legal assistance.

ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILE

Ayuda is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing direct legal, social and language access services, education, and outreach to low-income immigrants in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Since 1973, Ayuda has provided critical services on a wide range of issues, in the process acquiring nationally recognized expertise in several fields including immigration law, language access, domestic violence and human trafficking. Ayuda has office locations in Washington, DC, Silver Spring, MD and Fairfax, VA.

WHY DO YOU WANT THIS JOB?

Because, just like everyone at Ayuda, you believe:

• In seeing communities where all immigrants succeed and thrive in the United States.
• In the overall success of our organization and all our programs.
• That families should be healthy and safe from harm.
• That all people should have access to professional, honest, and ethical services, regardless of ability to pay or status in this country.
• That diversity and equality make this country better.

WHAT WILL THIS JOB ENTAIL?

• Coordinate and implement virtual and in-person immigration legal clinics, including logistical planning, pro bono volunteer recruitment, training, and mentorship.
• Assist in managing monthly case lists and place individual matters for representation with pro bono attorneys.
• Recruit, train, and mentor volunteer attorneys to ensure effective pro bono representation.
• Develop materials and trainings for pro bono volunteers.
• Maintain relationships with law firms, volunteers, and community partners to promote pro bono opportunities.
• Assist with data entry, case tracking, and preparation of program reports for funders and grantors.
• Conduct intakes, screen potential clients, and prepare immigration forms;
• Provide case management support, including maintaining case files, responding to client inquiries, and updating Ayuda’s case management system and tracking spreadsheets.
• Maintain a limited caseload to provide direct client representation while balancing program coordination responsibilities.
• Participate in internal and external meetings, trainings, and community outreach activities as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU CAN DO THIS JOB?

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be legally able to work in the United States and maintain proper work authorization throughout employment.
• Must be able to meet the physical requirements of the position presented in a general office environment.

Education/Experience:

This role is open to licensed attorneys and Department of Justice Accredited Representatives.

Candidates applying as a DOJ Accredited Representative must have:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience in immigration legal services.
• DOJ recognition as a Partially Accredited Representative (or eligibility and willingness to obtain accreditation under 8 C.F.R. § 1292.2).
• Minimum of three years of relevant experience in immigration legal assistance or case management (e.g. as a paralegal or legal assistant)

Candidates applying as an attorney must have:

• J.D. or LL.M. from an accredited law school and current bar membership in good standing in any U.S. jurisdiction.
• 1–3 years of immigration legal services experience preferred.

Skills:

• Fluency in a second language required (preference for Spanish).

Qualifications:

The following qualifications are the qualities, experiences, and skills we seek in a candidate. Candidates who don't feel that they meet every single qualification, but who still believe they’d be the right fit for this role, are encouraged to consider applying! We're eager to meet people that believe in our mission and can contribute to our team in a variety of ways - not just candidates who check all the boxes.

Experience:

• Experience coordinating volunteers, clinics, or community partnerships strongly preferred.

Skills:

• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Detail-oriented, able to meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality.
• Demonstrated sensitivity to working with diverse communities and with survivors of trauma.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with legal case management systems preferred.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

The anticipated salary for this position is $60,500-$85,400, depending on experience and licensure/accreditation. For example, $60,500 is the starting salary for a paralegal or legal assistant who meets the minimum qualifications of the role and is eligible to obtain accreditation. $68,900 is the starting salary for a Partially Accredited Representative. $74,300 is the starting salary for a licensed attorney.

We are proud of the benefits we can offer that include:

• Platinum-level medical insurance plan 100% employer-paid
• Dental and vision insurance 100% employer paid
• Long-term disability insurance 100% employer paid
• Life and AD&D insurance 100% employer paid
• Pre-tax 401(k) with Employer match on first 3% of salary
• Vacation Days: 21 days per year until year 3, 27 per year in years 3-7 and 33 days per year after 7 years employment. Employees begin with 3 days of vacation leave.
• New employees begin with 5 days of Health & Wellness (sick) leave and accrue an additional 5 hours per pay period plus emergency medical leave up to 12 weeks per year
• 12 weeks paid parental leave
• 24 days paid holidays and staff wellness days, including Winter Break the last week of the year
• Job-related professional development fees (including annual state bar dues and professional memberships)
• Flexible work schedules

Employees with federal student loan debt may be eligible to apply for Public Service Loan Forgiveness through the Department of Education. For more information, go to https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service.

This position is exempt for overtime purposes.

TO APPLY:

Please apply with resume and cover letter. Writing samples may be requested.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Apply early for full consideration. No phone calls, please.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT STATEMENT:

Ayuda is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

We believe that a diversity of experiences, opinions, and backgrounds is integral to achieving our mission and vision. We celebrate diversity and seek to leverage the passion, energy, and ideas of a culturally diverse team. Our hiring decisions are based on merit, and our hiring and promotion practices comply with all applicable anti-discrimination laws.