E-advocacy, Webmaster, Tech and Database Manager for the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights

ICIRR’s mission is to promote the full and equal participation of immigrants and refugees in the political, civic and economic life of our diverse society. In partnership with our member organizations, ICIRR educates and organizes immigrant and refugee communities to assert their rights; promotes citizenship and civic participation; monitors, analyzes, and advocates on immigrant-related issues; and, informs the general public about the contributions of immigrants and refugees.

Position Summary: The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) is looking for a “tech-visionary” to handle its various e-based needs, including web communications and database work. This is an opportunity for a self-starter to use his/her knowledge and creativity to help create a powerful web and electronic communications presence in the struggle for immigrant and refugee justice. S/he will work with both the Communications Department in development of ICIRR communications strategy and with the Administration Department in data and tech management. In addition, all ICIRR staff provide support in planning and preparing for ICIRR events.

Duties and Responsibilities:
• General office technology support, including trouble shooting and installing software;
• Network/server/anti-virus maintenance and troubleshooting and forward-thinking on IT infrastructure;
• Database: management responsibility, including assistance with uploads of data from programs and creation of reports; overseeing training and staff ability to use; developing strategy and interfacing with Databank (current provider);
• Occasional web technical support (not content) and interface with web developer on technical issues;
• Oversee the creation/maintenance of possible new state program database (in partnership with program director);
• Basic network administration and tech support;
• Maintain and update the ICIRR websites on a regular basis with headlines, news stories, action alerts, events, and other information;
• Create and distribute the ICIRR e-newsletter, which requires working collaboratively with Organizers and Communications. The ICIRR “member newsletter” is sent through a g-mail account, and the ICIRR “general newsletter” is sent through Capitol Advantage’s “Capwiz”;
• Maintain the “Capwiz” newsletter subscription list with newsletter sign-ups from the ICIRR website and other sources;
• Handle and distribute webform information to staff in an appropriate manner;
• Maintain and distribute information on volunteers acquired through the ICIRR websites;
• Stay abreast of tech developments (as on techsoup.org) and work to expand ICIRR’s web presence and email listserv;
• Work with member organizations on e-advocacy, tech, and website issues in order to develop their capacity;
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Skill in using most Microsoft programs (Word, Excel, Access, etc.)
• Skill in using basic HTML and CSS a must; PHP/MySQL a plus
• Knowledge of modern web communication and database management
• Ability to establish priorities, work independently, and proceed with objectives without supervision
• Ability to handle and resolve recurring problems.

Credentials and Experience:
• Bachelor’s degree
• Two years of related experience
• Personal experience/passion for immigrant justice issues and with a progressive political organization a strong plus
• Special Requirements: Laptop computer a plus. Position may include weekend or off-hour work as requested by Director of Finance and Administration.

Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications, plus benefits. This position is part of the National Organization of Legal Service Workers, and part of a collective bargaining agreement under which the employee, as a condition of employment, is required to submit dues or fees to the Union.