Social Worker, Loyola Immigrant Justice Clinic

The Law School’s Loyola Immigrant Justice Clinic (LIJC) is seeking a Masters-level social worker to work as part of a holistic legal team consisting of law students and immigration advocates serving immigrant clients and their families. The position is open to be filled immediately.


LIJC is a community-based collaboration of Loyola Law School, Loyola Marymount University, Homeboy Industries Inc., and Dolores Mission Church. LIJC’s dual-pronged mission is to advance the rights of the low-income immigrant population in East Los Angeles through direct legal services, education, and community empowerment, while teaching law students effective immigrants’ rights lawyering skills in a real-world setting. LIJC’s community-based model enables us to stay informed, up to date, and responsive to the immigrant community’s legal needs. LIJC focuses on providing representation to individuals who are unable to obtain immigration legal services elsewhere. The LIJC is part of the Law School’s Loyola Social Justice Law Clinic (LSJLC) which consists of 20+ live client clinics, including 10 in-house clinics with full-time staff on campus.

This position is primarily in-person on the Loyola Law School campus. This position requires driving to court, client homes, community-based organizations, etc. Some evening and occasional weekend hours will be required.

Position Specific Responsibilities/Accountabilities

The position will include the following specific responsibilities/accountabilities:

• Work as part of the legal team, collaborating with supervising lawyers and law students to identify and achieve the legal goals of the clients we represent.
• Help inform and guide clients and families through the immigration process and assist them with overcoming barriers while navigating the system.
• Conduct case management and crisis intervention for immigrant clients we represent.
• Support clients and their families during all stages of immigration proceedings.
• Maintain case records in the LIJC’s online case management system.
• Cultivate relationships with community programs and social service providers.
• In collaboration with social work staff in other Law School clinics, provide training and support to law students regarding second-hand trauma in representing clients.
• The Social Worker will report to the LIJC Director and will perform case-related duties as assigned or requested by supervising attorneys. The Law School reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

Loyola Marymount University Expectations

Exhibit behavior that supports the mission, vision, and values of the university. Communicate and employ interpersonal actions that model high standards of professional, responsible, accountable, and ethical conduct.  Demonstrate a commitment to outstanding customer service.

Requisite Qualifications

Candidates must have a Master's in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited School of Social Work.  Licensure not required. The social worker will be expected to continue upgrading knowledge, skills, and abilities as needed.

• Two years of post-graduate experience.

• Spanish fluency.
• Working knowledge of how trauma manifests in school and healing-centered interventions.
• Proven dedication to serving underserved communities.
• Ability to effectively and respectfully communicate, collaborate, and connect with people in various backgrounds, identities, and experiences.
• Ability to work well both independently and collaboratively with lawyers, non-lawyers, and students.
• Ability to multitask, maintain order and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, high stakes environment.
• Meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to receive constructive feedback, demonstrate introspection, and shift behavior accordingly.
• Proven interest in working with or supervising graduate students.
• Proven interest in working with attorneys.
• Valid California drivers license, insurance, and a working vehicle.
• Knowledge of Los Angeles community resources and network of services is preferred.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of this position.