Immigration Specialist

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Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of our academic community.

International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) at Emory University is seeking an Immigration Specialist. The position will primarily focus on determining eligibility and issuing immigration documents (I-20s and DS-2019s) for admitted international students, as well as monitoring and maintaining the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and University records. The Immigration Specialist will also coordinate pre-arrival communication and travel signature services and events for Emory's international students and scholars.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Analyzes and applies federal immigration regulations and Emory University policies to advise international students, scholars, faculty, their dependents, administrators, and staff (including one walk-in advising assignment per week) regarding federal immigration and employment regulations, Emory resources, and related matters.
• Serves as a DSO and ARO for Emory and performs associated duties, including ensuring timely resolution of requests, alert management, and record upkeep in both IOM and SEVIS.
• Uses regulatory training and knowledge to independently analyze, interpret, and make decisions about student and scholar cases and provides appropriate advice based on analysis.
• Ensures excellent customer/client service for office visitors as well as accurate and timely responses to all inquiries.
• Is responsible for J-1 scholar check in, orientation, and government records validation processes.
• Collaborates and executes ISSS Travel Days including planning/scheduling outreach, assigning staff, and project/process management.
• Analyzes and processes Travel Information Update requests for F and J visa holders.
• Assists with planning and coordination of other ISSS programs and events including OPT workshops, student orientations, on campus SSN appointments, International Coffee Hour, and others.
• Coordinates the immigration-document issuance process.
• Evaluates eligibility for I-20s and DS-2019s based on immigration law and analysis of individual student academic and financial circumstances.
• Manages communication and customer service to navigate stakeholders through a multi-stage process and ensure timely resolution.
• Assists ISSS staff with intake of employment-based visa requests (O-1, PR and IGA & Conrad 30) and compliance (LCA tracking, H-1B file deactivation, etc.).
• Manages express mailing shipments including petitions, applications, and communication to the US government. Processes incoming mail.
• Creates welcome packets for new exchange visitors.
• Orders office supplies.
• Assists with coordination of facility requests.
• Supports front desk coordinator as needed.
• Performs related responsibilities as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• A bachelor's degree in student personnel administration, international studies or a related field and one year of related experience or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
• Must be able to immediately serve as a Designated School Official (DSO) and Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) based on F/J federal law training, including government online training as evidenced by a certificate of passing, and meet government eligibility requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to learn and understand ever-changing complex federal, state, and local regulations pertaining to foreign nationals and effectively communicate to others.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Sunapsis international office module and PeopleSoft preferred.
• Excellent written, verbal, and non-verbal communication skills.
• Must be able to work with a diverse population in a professional manner, maintaining high levels of customer service, cross-cultural sensitivity, and discretion in handling confidential information.
• Experience living, studying, or working in a country different from one's own preferred.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Effectively collaborate both within and across teams.
• Synthesize information from multiple sources to provide accurate immigration advice.
• Adapt to changing seasonal priorities to maintain excellent customer service and time-sensitive requests.
• Handle sensitive information and maintain detailed and accurate files in accordance with government document retention requirements.

NOTE: Position tasks are generally required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location. Remote work from home day options may be granted at department discretion. Emory reserves the right to change remote work status with notice to employee.

Emory University is dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, genetic information, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and veteran's status. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment on the basis of any factor stated above or prohibited under applicable law. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in University programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Executive Order 11246, as amended, Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action. Emory University is committed to achieving a diverse workforce through application of its affirmative action, equal opportunity and nondiscrimination policy in all aspects of employment including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Inclusion, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322.
Emory University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to request a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at 404-727-9877 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). Please note that one week advance notice is preferred.