Immigration Consultant

Queen’s University is seeking an immigration professional with experience navigating Canadian immigration processes, which include LMIAs (Labour Market Impact Assessment) and LMIA exemptions, who would thrive in a position focused on building an immigration function within one of Canada’s premier educational institutions with a priority towards globalization. Reporting to the Executive Director, Office of the Provost and Vice-Principle (Academic), and working closely with the Senior Director, Employee Relations (Human Resources), the Immigration Consultant will support faculties, departments, and researchers in relocating non-Canadian talent and facilitating arrangements for international visitors to Kingston, Ontario. To be successful in this role, the individual must hold a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) designation or practice as an immigration Lawyer in good standing and must have a collaborative approach to work, which ensures all partners are included in important decisions and departments requiring immigration services are supported and informed throughout the process.

This new position at the University will provide the incumbent an opportunity to contribute their knowledge and creativity to enhance the immigration services program at Queen’s. The position will have a direct impact on the ability of the University to meet its strategic goals by facilitating Queen’s capacity to attract talent and international visitors regardless of their country of origin.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Provide guidance and expert advice to senior leadership and the University community on immigration matters related to employment and/or hosting of international academics and/or researchers. This includes recommendations related to visas and/or work permits, LMIA applications, LMIA exemptions, permanent residency, and selection of immigration recruitment program(s).
• Offer expertise and facilitate the resolution of immigration issues. Identify problems and consider complex issues to make recommendations to ensure the University's practices comply with immigration laws and regulations as well as the Criminal Code of Canada (as it relates to immigration matters) and mitigate risks.
• Accountable for the University’s adherence to the compliance framework, policies and guidelines on immigration. Act as point of contact for all compliance audits conducted by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
• Maintain accurate and current knowledge of immigration legislation, regulations and programs, and communicate amendments that may impact the hiring and/or retention of foreign nationals and/or visiting scholars in a timely manner.
• Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with internal partners, government and third-party agencies on matters related to international recruitment and retention.
• Lead the administration of immigration processes for faculty and staff. Oversee the University’s access to the IRCC Employer Portal for LMIA exempt applications and manage the completion of LMIA and LMIA exemption applications.
• Oversee the development of guidelines, processes, briefing materials, website content, correspondence and training sessions for the University community that facilitate understanding of and compliance with the laws and regulations of IRCC.
• Consult and advise non-Canadian employees and international visitors on matters related to immigration processes to facilitate smooth transition to Canada and work permit application (including guidance on accompanying family member applications).
• Promote a culture of inclusion, with a commitment to the University’s equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives designed to foster an inclusive, supportive, and welcoming work environment for all.
• Undertake special projects and other duties as required, in support of the Office of the Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic).

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• A Bachelor's degree and professional designation as a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) in good standing under the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) or status as an immigration lawyer in good standing.
• Minimum five (5) years of experience in immigration consulting, including two (2) years focused on LMIA and work permit applications and legislation interpretation.
• Previous experience with administrative tasks such as: writing guidelines, processes, and correspondences; developing briefing materials and website content; and delivering training sessions.
• Consideration may be given to an equivalent combination of education and experience.

SPECIAL SKILLS:
• High level of intercultural competency coupled with a deep understanding of the application of principles of inclusivity.
• Demonstrated ability to consider complex issues, thinking strategically and innovatively to propose options and negotiate solutions to multifaceted issues with sensitivity to the needs and interests of various groups and to the reputation of the University.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a proven ability to develop relationships and work cooperatively and effectively with administrators, academics, senior leadership, government and third-party agencies to deliver immigration-related objectives.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with an ability to conduct research and analysis, and effectively present results and explain complex concepts to diverse audiences, in a clear and concise manner.
• Exceptional organizational, planning and time-management skills to coordinate a wide range of requirements, involving numerous partners and audiences, within fixed timelines.

DECISION MAKING:
• Interpret immigration legislation and regulations, provide recommendations and guidance for University leaders, departments, employees and relevant government agencies that ensures legislative compliance, mitigates risk and facilitates successful outcomes.
• Identify when decisions and recommendations should be referred to the Executive Director, Senior Director Labour Relations, senior leadership or external counsel, and when to consult and collaborate with internal partners.
• Recommend appropriate strategies to ensure successful recruitment of foreign nationals and/or hosting of visiting scholars.
• Develop the content of immigration-related guidelines and procedures that contribute to increased efficiency, effectiveness and compliance.
• Recommend the most effective mediums for providing information for prospective and new employees and visiting scholars.
• Determine tone, content and format for agendas, briefing notes, reports, presentations and communications for a variety of audiences.