For centuries, the United States has been welcoming immigrants from around the world and encouraging each of them to fulfill their dreams and make a contribution to the social, economic and political fabric of our Nation.
With the current media frenzy on deportations, state and federal immigration legislation, and over 20 million undocumented and illegal immigrants residing in our country, immigration issues will continue to fuel political debate. There are a few ways to get involved and become part of the solution. You can hoot and holler at your television or elected official, join an advocacy group, write about the issue, run for public office, or, if you truly want to work the issue from the ground, you could become an Immigration Services officer.
Under the Department of Homeland Security, the U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is now advertising hundreds of Immigration Services Officer positions nationwide at the GS-5/7/9 grade levels. Starting salaries range from $26,264 to $39,795, depending on the grade level and location. Promotion potential and regular salary increases are also available.
What's expected of employees? New recruits will attend a 6-week BASIC training program in Dallas, Texas, a 1-week Practicum at the National Benefits Center in Lees Summit, Missouri, and a one week Practicum at either a District Office or Service Center. During the training and practicum, recruits will be provided with the skills needed to adjudicate applications and petitions for citizen status.
As an Immigration Officer, your primary responsibilities include:
- Adjudicating cases and granting or denying applications and petitions for immigration benefits;
- Independently researching, interpreting, and analyzing an extensive spectrum of sources;
- Conducting security checks in accordance with all applicable USCIS/DHS laws and policies;
- Interviewing applicants and petitioners to elicit statements, assessing applicant credibility, and analyzing information gained to identify facts and considerations; and
- Providing direct and continued assistance to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel and officials of other Federal agencies in identifying individuals who pose a threat to national/public security.
What are the qualifications? Applicants can qualify for the GS-5/7/9 grade levels based on education, experience, or a combination of both education and experience. All academic majors are acceptable for this position.
So if you believe you have what it takes to help make a significant impact on our Nation's future by securing our shores and helping qualified immigrants and refugees legally reside, work and build new lives in the United States, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is accepting
applications through May 26, 2008.
If you are interested, act fast and apply through www.usajobs.com.