Immigration Specialist

The Immigration Specialist is a highly responsible and independent administrative position for the Contracts and Immigration department. Under minimal supervision, incumbent performs highly specialized administrative/regulatory functions within the Contracts and Immigration department. The position is a key and essential element in the organization''s ability to incorporate foreign nationals into the overall mission of education and research by guiding employees and management through the complexities of immigration processes, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations while providing exceptional service and support. The incumbent must be knowledgeable about immigration laws and procedures, and must have excellent attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of each document. The work is to be performed in an academic environment with continual expectancy of accountability, accuracy and compliance with federal mandates/regulations. This position is supervised by the Assistant Director of Contracts and Immigration. Regular attendance is required to perform the functions of this position. Incumbent will maintain a customer-oriented awareness in acknowledging and responding to needs as they occur that customer satisfaction is met at all times. Essential Position Functions & Duties 95% Immigration Resource person to faculty, staff, and foreign national (and their families) on all matters pertaining to immigration. Assist with preparation, processing, and approval of all immigration documents as required for Exchange Visitors (J-1 status) and Temporary Workers (H-1B status) immigration categories. Manage the end-to-end immigration process for employees, including visa applications, renewals, and compliance with immigration laws and regulations. Collaborate and consult with faculty, HR, international scholars (and their family members), and hiring departments to develop options and strategically plan for their current and future immigration needs. Creatively resolve complex issues and problems based on thorough understanding of relevant policies and government regulations and University policies. Review, prepare, process and approve all requests for extension of stay, transfers to other institutions, and change of status to another category. Track and maintain the immigration statuses of international employees while keeping Public Access Files up to date. Knowledge of the SEVIS system for J-1 visa holders. Responsible for reporting to SEVIS at various times which are required by law. Serve as Alternate Responsible Officer to assist in administering the J Exchange Visitor Program. Serve as Designated School Official (DSO) for the F student program. Stay updated on changes in immigration laws and regulations to provide timely guidance and recommendations. Non-Essential Position Functions & Duties 5% Miscellaneous. Perform additional duties and responsibilities as requested by the Assistant Director of Contracts and Immigration.