Urgent: Administrative Assistant (Immigration Legal Services) – IRC Atlanta ($19.40/hr)

The Administrative Assistant (Immigration Legal Services) – IRC Atlanta ($19.40/hr) role represents a vital entry point into the high-stakes world of humanitarian aid and legal advocacy.

In the complex landscape of U.S. immigration law, the backlog of cases has reached critical levels, creating an urgent need for organized, compassionate support staff. This position offers more than just a paycheck; it is an opportunity to be the organizational backbone for a team fighting to secure futures for displaced individuals. By managing the intricate flow of documentation and client communication, an administrative assistant directly impacts the efficiency of legal outcomes.

As the International Rescue Committee (IRC) continues its mission in Atlanta, the demand for precise operational support has never been higher. This guide breaks down exactly what the hiring committee is looking for and how you can leverage this role to build a meaningful career in public service.

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Background & Job Description

The Administrative Assistant (Immigration Legal Services) – IRC Atlanta ($19.40/hr) is a linchpin position within the legal department. The International Rescue Committee provides humanitarian aid and relief to those displaced by conflict and persecution. In Atlanta, the legal services team focuses on asylum applications, family reunification, and removal defense.

When we discuss the “complexity” of immigration legal services, we are referring to the sheer volume of paperwork, strict filing deadlines, and the multi-agency nature of government interactions (USCIS, EOIR, CBP). Without a skilled administrative assistant, attorneys and caseworkers would be buried in administrative tasks, unable to focus on legal strategy.

The role involves handling sensitive biographical data, managing physical and digital files, and facilitating communication between clients and legal staff. It requires a high degree of integrity and adherence to confidentiality standards, particularly when dealing with vulnerable populations.

The Insider’s Perspective

“The best administrative assistants I’ve worked with are those who treat every file as if it belongs to a family member. In immigration law, a missing signature isn’t just a clerical error; it can delay a reunification by months,” says a Senior Immigration Attorney based in the Southeast.

Working in legal aid is fast-paced. The environment at the IRC is collaborative but demanding. You are not just filing papers; you are maintaining the integrity of the case management system. If the system fails, cases fall through the cracks. This role is about prevention and proactive organization.

For this specific Administrative Assistant (Immigration Legal Services) – IRC Atlanta ($19.40/hr) opening, the hiring team is looking for someone who thrives in structured environments but can adapt quickly when priorities shift—a common occurrence in humanitarian work.

Key Responsibilities

Understanding the daily workflow is essential before applying. Here is a breakdown of the core duties you will likely perform:

• Client Intake Coordination: You will be the first point of contact for many clients. This involves conducting initial screenings to gather necessary demographic information and basic case details before passing them to legal staff.
• Document Management: Organizing physical files and scanning documents for the digital case management system. Precision is key here; misfiling a birth certificate can cause significant delays.
• Correspondence Handling: Drafting routine letters to clients, government agencies, and partners. You must maintain a professional and empathetic tone in all written communication.
• Data Entry: Accurately entering information into the IRC’s database (likely Salesforce or a similar CRM). This data is crucial for grant reporting and tracking case progress.
• Maintaining Confidentiality: Strict adherence to HIPAA and legal confidentiality standards is non-negotiable. You will be handling sensitive immigration records.
• Scheduling: Managing calendars for legal staff, scheduling client appointments, and coordinating with interpreters.

Qualifications

Qualifications for Administrative Assistant (Immigration Legal Services) – IRC Atlanta ($19.40/hr)

The IRC does not necessarily require a law degree for this role, but they do require specific competencies. Here is what the job description likely demands:

• Education: A High School Diploma or GED is the minimum requirement. A Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Political Science, or a related field is preferred but not mandatory.
• Experience: At least 1-2 years of administrative support experience. Experience in a non-profit, legal, or healthcare setting is highly valued.
• Language Skills: Proficiency in English is required. Bilingual abilities (Spanish, French, Arabic, or Pashto) are a massive advantage given the demographic served in Atlanta.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook). Experience with databases is a plus.
• Soft Skills: Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to prioritize tasks under pressure.

Why Apply for This Position

This role is a gateway. Many current immigration attorneys and policy advisors started their careers in administrative roles within organizations like the IRC. It provides an unfiltered view of the humanitarian sector.

Atlanta is a major hub for refugee resettlement. By working here, you are placing yourself at the center of a vibrant, diverse community. The professional network you build will be invaluable, connecting you with judges, attorneys, and activists across the state.

The Administrative Assistant (Immigration Legal Services) – IRC Atlanta ($19.40/hr) role offers a chance to develop hard skills in legal administration that are transferable across industries, all while contributing to a cause that saves lives.

Financial Information & Benefits

The salary is listed at $19.40 per hour. While this is an hourly position, it comes with the stability and benefits package of a large international NGO.

• Compensation: $19.40/hr equates to approximately $40,352 annually before taxes (assuming 40 hours/week). This is a competitive rate for entry-to-mid-level administrative roles in the Atlanta non-profit sector.
• Health Coverage: The IRC typically offers comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance for full-time employees.
• Retirement: A 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching is standard for IRC staff.
• Time Off: Generous paid time off (PTO) and observed federal holidays.
• Work-Life Balance: The IRC emphasizes reasonable working hours, though flexibility is required during peak intake periods.

How to Apply

Applying for the Administrative Assistant (Immigration Legal Services) – IRC Atlanta ($19.40/hr) requires a tailored approach. Do not send a generic resume.

1. Update your Resume: Highlight specific administrative achievements. Use numbers where possible (e.g., “Managed filing for 200+ active cases”).
2. Craft a Cover Letter: Address the humanitarian aspect of the role. Explain why you care about refugee rights.
3. Click the Button Below: You will be redirected to the IRC Workday portal to submit your application officially.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is previous experience in immigration law required for this role?
No, it is not strictly required. However, any experience in a legal office, healthcare administration, or social services will give you a significant edge over other candidates. The IRC values transferable administrative skills highly.

2. Is this position fully remote or in-office?
Based on the nature of the Administrative Assistant (Immigration Legal Services) – IRC Atlanta ($19.40/hr) role, it is primarily an in-office position in Atlanta. Handling physical documents and providing direct client support usually requires physical presence.

3. What is the hiring timeline?
The IRC hiring process can take anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks. It typically involves a phone screen, a panel interview, and a reference check.

4. Do I need to be bilingual?
No, but it helps. If you speak Spanish or French, mention this prominently in your cover letter.

5. What software does the IRC use?
They primarily use Microsoft Office and Salesforce for case management. Training is provided.