Immigration Intake Specialist
About This Position
The Immigration Services program helps refugees, asylees, immigrants and others to navigate the complex path to obtain immigration benefits such as permanent residency, work authorization, DACA and citizenship. The program has helped over 18,000 New Americans achieve U.S. citizenship since 2001 and demand for services remains high. The Immigration Intake Specialist is essential for scheduling and organizing all client appointments and maintaining the professional image of the program. The Immigration Intake Specialist is often the first contact clients have with the program and supports the work of the Accredited Representatives/Attorney on the team.
DEPARTMENT: Immigration
REPORTS TO:Director, Immigration Services
Salary range: $50,000-$52,000
FLSA Status: 1.0 FTE
Anticipated Start Date: October 15, 2025
Former refugees, New Americans and people of color are highly encouraged to apply.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
Intake Specialist (approx. 60%)
- Under the supervision of DOJ Accredited Representatives, conduct client intake and eligibility screening for immigration services appointments via telephone, text, and email.
- Under the supervision of DOJ Accredited Representatives, communicate with clients and advocate on their behalf (as appropriate) via telephone, text, email, and U.S. postal service.
- Maintain and update immigration services appointment calendar.
- Make appropriate referrals, as necessary, for immigration legal services beyond the scope of the program and for other social service needs.
- Operate telephone system in a professional manner, provide answers, when possible, conduct follow-up calls or take messages when needed.
- Operate cash register and credit card machine. Calculate fees, collect, and process various forms of payment. Operate digital camera for instant immigration and passport-style photos.
- Attend weekly immigration services program meetings and all staff meetings (every other month), professional development and other duties as assigned.
- Contribute to the improvement and development of the immigration services program and overall Institute mission and goals.
Citizenship Case Aide (40%)
- Under the supervision of DOJ Accredited Representatives, provide naturalization assistance to eligible lawful permanent residents through completion of client intake, eligibility screening and form N-400 completion
- Complete accurate and timely case management to culturally and linguistically diverse clients in an inclusive and respectful manner.
- Represent the organization at public outreach events to educate communities about immigration services and Institute programs.
- Other duties as assigned.
Experience and Qualifications
- B.A. in relevant field (extensive relevant experience may be substituted for B.A.).
- Previous work experience in immigration law or related field (with refugees or asylees preferred).
- Customer service experience with ethnically diverse clientele.
- Proficient in maintaining databases and producing professional documents using Microsoft Word, Outlook, and various communication platforms.
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills with cross-cultural communication experience.
- A problem solver who effectively handles sensitive situations, is organized and professional.
- Self-motivated, fast learner who can take initiative and requires minimal supervision.
- Proven communication skills in a second language, vital to the clients served (Karen, Oromo, Spanish, Somali, etc.).
- Demonstrated commitment to the mission and vision of International Institute of MN.
Additional Requirements
- Use of manual dexterity, tactile, visual, and audio acuity
- Use of repetitive motion, prolonged periods of sitting, and sustained visual and mental applications and demands
International Institute of Minnesota values a diverse workplace and strongly encourages women, people of color, LGBT individuals, New Americans to apply. The Institute is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, or any protected category prohibited by local, state, or federal laws.
About Us
The International Institute of Minnesota is a dynamic organization that provides services to maximize the talents and opportunities New Americans bring to our state. The Institute assists low income New Americans in their transition to a new homeland by providing comprehensive services for successful integration. The Institute serves more than 4,000 New Americans annually with new arrival social services to employment placement and advancement through to U.S. Citizenship attainment. Programs are divided into three primary areas: Refugee Services, Education and Employment Training Services, and Immigration Services. The Institute also provides advocacy for policy reforms and supports systems change that improve opportunities for New Americans to move their lives forward.

Job Application: Immigration Intake Specialist
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Contact Us
Please call or email us if you have a question or need help with your employment application.
Dana Onato-Pannkuk
Human Resources Generalist
(651) 377-8614
donato-pannkuk@iimn.org