Jobs at Defender Association of Philadelphia (Now Hiring) — 4 open

Administrative Assistant - Immigration

Make a difference! Become a Defender! 

The Defender Association of Philadelphia is seeking a highly organized, professional, and detailed-oriented administrative assistant for our Community Defense (Immigration Practice) Unit (CDU). The CDU provides direct legal services in immigration law matters by representing clients in immigration court hearings, immigration appeals, and federal filings with USCIS, U.S. Department of State, and federal courts. In addition, the unit provides immigration analysis and advice in Pennsylvania criminal cases involving non-citizen defendants for whom the Defender Association is appointed. 

As a core member of the Unit’s administrative team, the administrative assistant will work closely with the CDU’s Chief, Assistant Chief and Unit Coordinator to ensure the administrative processes developed are effective and efficient. The administrative assistant supports the Unit’s daily administrative functions and works closely with attorneys, administrative staff, clients, and outside agencies to ensure Defender clients receive high-quality, effective legal representation.

This is position is grant funded until June 30, 2028, unless the Defenders obtains continued funding. While we hope that the funding continues beyond that date, we cannot guarantee employment past that date

What You’ll Do: 

What You’ll Need

• Organization & Practice Management
• Practice Management: Ability to work in a high-volume practice and prioritize assignments effectively, alongside a strong commitment to professionalism in the workplace. 
• Technical Proficiency: Knowledge of basic administrative/clerical systems and procedures. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and general computer literacy, with the ability to learn multiple internal and external computer systems. Ability to accurately enter data into database programs and case management software, and create, format, and maintain accurate spreadsheets and data tables to track Unit metrics.
• Travel Requirements: Willingness to go to court, immigration detention facilities, and the Philadelphia jails if necessary. 

Benefits & Perks

To apply

Please apply online with resume and cover letter detailing your interest and relevant experience. Salary starts at $47,000 with an additional $2,000 increase for using bilingual skills

Who is the Defender Association? 

The Defender Association of Philadelphia is more than just a law firm. We’re the community’s lawyers. The Defender team – more than 500 attorneys, social workers, investigators, administrators, and other staff – make sure that everyone, regardless of income, has access to high-quality defense when facing criminal charges. Our mission-driven, client-centered model focuses on outcomes that support a system that is fundamentally fair and creates safer, stronger communities. Follow us @PhilllyDefenders (Twitter, Instagram & TikTok) and on LinkedIn. 

The Defender Association provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, The Defender Association complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.