Immigration Specialist II

This position serves as the primary subject matter expert for immigration services for the IFAS community and acts as primary and direct liaison for all aspects of immigration compliance between all IFAS units and centers around the state of Florida. Oversees and manages the IFAS foreign national hire process for hire candidates needing sponsored work visas (H1B, O1, J1, TN, E3). Coordinates all aspects of immigration compliance to include collecting, processing, and filing all sponsored visas (i.e. H1B, J1, O1, TN, E3) and permanent residency applications for IFAS faculty and staff positions.  Ensures timely and accurate processing of required applicants, documents, and fees. Works directly with UFHR Immigration Compliance Office and UF’s contracted immigration law firm, Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy, LLP (“Fragomen” for short) to compile and initiate visa petitions to USCIS. Maintains direct contact with attorneys to initiate green card cases.

Collaborates with the IFAS International Support Team (IIST) in evaluating and addressing issues related to international employment and the UFHR Employment Abroad policy.  Advises and liaises with the Deans’ offices, UF General Counsel, outside counsel, sponsored research, USAID and other sponsors related to international employment issues. Acts as the petitioning signatory for all sponsored non-immigrant visa petitions to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and US Department of Labor (DOL).  Coordinates and reviews immigrant petitions for green card applicants with heads of units and outside counsel.

Responsible for promoting and monitoring IFAS compliance with all applicable federal and state laws as well as UF policies and procedures with an emphasis on immigration.  Identifies and coordinates with units, supervisors, and international employees to ensure work authorizations remain current per federal Form I-9 regulations. Subject matter expert for the Form I-9 and E-Verification regulations and processes.

Respond to all immigration inquiries, prepare entry support documents, gather information and documents for Requests for Evidence (RFE) by deadlines set forth by outside counsel and government agencies. Ensures all immigration invoices, filing fees and services are paid through the myUF Marketplace portal.

Host training sessions and develop policies and best practices to provide guidance on all US immigration matters including visa process practices and timelines to faculty and staff.

Remain current on events and announcements for government agencies. Place pertinent notices and updates onto the IFAS HR website. Participate in the team's Salesforce, ePAF processing and other team functions during peak times within the unit.

Other duties as assigned

Commensurate with education and experience

Bachelor's degree in an appropriate area and one year of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Must possess critical thinking skills.  Analytical and problem-solving skills, including researching and analyzing complex data to develop accurate reports.

Must understand and practice excellent customer service.

Must possess a professional attitude and demeanor, which is conveyed in all interactions, communications, and appearance.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with faculty, administrative staff, and other campus departments.

Must be able to work well in a team environment. 

Take ownership of the resolution of problems, be flexible and accountable, manage conflicting responsibilities, prioritize tasks, and consistently meet deadlines.

Must be self-motivated and capable of working independently.

Experience with UF processes, myUFL, Microsoft Office programs.

Experience with Foreign National hiring processes.

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter, resume and references.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.