Immigration Specialist

45855BR

Position Description:

Serve as a key resource for the university in addressing immigration-related matters specific to the recruitment, employment, and continued engagement of international faculty and staff in nonimmigrant visa categories. As part of the international employment team within the International Affairs office, the employee will provide guidance on immigration regulations to support the university's international employment-based visa needs. Additionally, the employee will manage and oversee immigration cases originally initiated by external legal counsel to ensure continuity and compliance. The employee will be responsible for preparing and filing cases sponsored by the university including faculty and staff, while also maintaining comprehensive knowledge and expertise in related immigration matters affecting university-affiliated individuals, including F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors engaged in Optional Practical Training (OPT). Although the employee will not serve as an attorney for the university or practice law, the employee will work closely with the TTU System Office of General Counsel and outside counsel.

About the University:

Founded in 1923, Texas Tech University began with a mission to serve the needs of West Texas, but its impact has always reached far beyond. Today, Texas Tech, located in Lubbock (pop. 300,000+), is home to a vibrant community of more than 42,000 students.Texas Tech's 1,800-acre campus showcases Spanish Renaissance architecture and is home to one of the country's largest public art collections. Its 13 colleges include a prestigious School of Law and a distinguished School of Veterinary Medicine. These programs equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their respective fields. Built on the values of West Texas — hard work, grit and authenticity — the university graduates students who are deeply engaged in service to their communities and well-positioned to succeed in the world. Texas Tech is committed to achieving research and scholarly accomplishments that compare favorably to the member institutions of the Association of American Universities (AAU). For more than 100 years, Texas Tech has been a premier destination for those seeking a world-class education and a unique, personalized experience as a member of the Red Raider family.

Major/Essential Functions:

• Oversee high-volume of employment-based immigration cases for faculty and staff including immigrant and non-immigrant cases with USCIS, DOL, and the Department of State.

• Act as the primary campus resource on immigration regulations, collaborating with International Affairs to ensure compliance in the on boarding, hiring, and retention of international faculty and staff on non immigrant visas.

• Prepare all necessary legal documents, including applications, petitions, appeals, and waivers.

• Research and analyze complex immigration law issues.

• Monitor and keep abreast of all changes in immigration law.

• Provide advice when questions arise for legal interpretation for International Affairs and Texas Tech administration.

• Develop strategies to resolve immigration-related issues at state and federal levels.

• Participate in university and International Affairs meetings and committees as appropriate.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills with a strong focus on client service.

• Proactive and effective in both independent and team settings.

• High level of accuracy and attentiveness.

• Capable of handling multiple responsibilities in a time-sensitive, fast-moving workplace.

Required Qualifications:

J.D. degree from an accredited U.S. Law School. 5 years' experience of in-depth immigration work performed on a routine daily basis and possess a thorough understanding in H-1B, E-3, TN and TN and O-1 visas, in addition to Employment-Based sponsorship processes including but not limited to: EB-2 Standard Labor Certification process, EB-1(a) Extraordinary Ability, and EB-1(b) Outstanding Professor and Researcher.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Licensed in Texas preferable.

Safety Information:

Adherence to robust safety practices and compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations are responsibilities of all TTU employees.

Does this position work in a research laboratory?:

No

Required Attachments:

Professional License or Certification, Resume / CV

Optional Attachments:

Professional/Personal Reference

Job Type:

Full Time

Pay Basis:

Monthly

Job Family:

Legal and Compliance

Job Sub Family:

Legal

Annualized Pay Range:

$95,500 - $124,200.00 - $152,800

Pay Statement:

Compensation is commensurate upon the qualifications of the individual selected and budgetary guidelines of the hiring department, as well as the institutional pay plan.

Travel Required:

Up to 25%

Shift:

Day

Schedule Details:

Flexible work schedule allowed

Grant Funded?:

No

EEO Statement:

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or status as a protected veteran.