Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Languages
Timeline
Generic

Mercelinda Garcia

Arlington,TX

Summary

Experienced Immigration Services with over six years of experience adjudicating multiple form types and consistently recognized for solid work ethic. Detailed Immigration Officer polished in scrutinizing passports and other travel documents of travelers and immigrants to verify validity. Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.

Overview

10
10
years of professional experience

Work History

Immigration Services Officer II

United States Citizen and Immigration Services
10.2022 - Current
    • Salary GS12
    • Evaluated skills of foreign workers in comparison with stated job requirements and research to determine eligibility for employment-based visas and petitions for alien workers
    • Reviewed labor certificates issued by DOL (ETA 9089), I-140 Immigrant Petition, and offers of employment to determine eligibility for the benefit sought
    • Ensured communication with internal stakeholders to advise on crucial immigration matters
    • Monitoring and coordinating personnel actions: recommending plans to improve the efficiency of processing activities and solutions to eliminate the recurrence of unfavorable conditions
    • Verify compliance with laws when goods or people enter the United States
    • Compose accurate decisions, including revocations and denials
    • Provide accurate and timely advice and information on all immigration policies and procedures to customers in an effective manner
    • Review and generate reports from Tableau
    • Review travel documents, including passports and work visas
    • Reviewed, researched, conducted security checks and interviews in support of various forms, and responded to customer inquiries through the SRMT system
    • Adjudications of I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker and National Interest Waivers
    • Make a final determination on cases by using written, oral, and analytical skills and apply laws and regulations, and either grant or deny complex and publicly sensitive cases
    • Proficiency in the following systems: EDGE, ECHO, CCD, TABLEU, PCQS, STACKS, TECS, ELIS, CLAIMS, CIS, Benefits hub, CPMS, ICMS, NASS, RAILS, SRMT.SEVIS, SMART, EDMS, ADIS, ACCURINT.
    • I've monitored visa expiration dates diligently and accurately, taking the appropriate actions as needed.

Immigration Services Officer II

United States Citizen and Immigration Services
05.2022 - 10.2022
  • Salary GS12
  • Review medical examination Forms: I-693 Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, N-648 Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions, and Consular medical examinations and records to determine eligibility for benefits sought.
  • Identify, develop, and articulate comprehensive reports when referring cases to Fraud Detection and National Security Unit (FDNS)
  • Adjudications of the following applications/petitions: I-485, I-130, N-600, N-400 (including military cases), I-360, I-730, I-485, I-212, I-751, I-290B, I-601
  • Serve as Terrorist-Related Inadmissibility Grounds (T.G.I.S) Officer: Interviewed applicants who have been suspected of terrorist-related activities and individuals with multiple identities and reviewed TECS records, pertinent systems, and historical fingerprint records to determine eligibility for the benefit sought.
  • Ability to collect, develop, and evaluate facts, evidence, and pertinent data in assessing compliance with, or violation(s) of laws, rules, or regulations
  • Adjudicative cases to determine eligibility for immigration benefits and interview applicant
  • Able to multitask and take care of urgent issues and needs while being able to switch tasks seamlessly
  • Review Forms N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions, to determine if applicants meet an exception by federal regulations
  • Review information submitted and approved or deny exemptions for medical disability.
  • Also, please ask for additional information about medical history, oath waivers for those with medical conditions, and additional N-648s by current regulations and policies.
  • Develop summary letters or request for additional information about disability exceptions.
  • Extensive knowledge related to inspections at borders, seaports, airports, or other ports of entry/ and or work involving preliminary screening of persons for entry and immigration status
  • Specialized knowledge of laws, regulations, and procedures about transport to and from the United States and the import and export of merchandise or goods
  • Ability to enforce and administer laws relating to the right persons to enter, reside, or depart from the United States.
  • Developed strong relationships with key stakeholders and other Agencies, such as Customs Border and Protection (C.B.P), to support efforts relating to homeland security and immigration policy and procedures
  • Advises involved parties of medical and non-medical evidence required for case adjudication and assists in the acquisition.

Immigration Services Officer II

United States Citizen and Immigration Services, International BLVD
10.2021 - 05.2022
  • Salary GS12.
  • Adjudicate immigration applications, including adjustment of status, naturalization, motions, and waivers
  • Identify possible fraud and abuse patterns that have been referred to the Fraud Detection unit.
  • Many of these referrals were later determined to contain fraudulent information.
  • Provide input on novel and complex cases with local management, counsel, and headquarters.
  • Officially mentor other Officers at my supervisor's request and regularly mentor other Officers on an unofficial basis.
  • Conduct over 40 naturalization and adjustment of status interviews every week in the English and Spanish languages and volunteer to take extra cases when needed.
  • Interview waiver particular project: adjudicate cases based on prima facie evidence submitted and refer patients for an interview when needed
  • ASC Backup Manager: Oversee contract workers, supervise and monitor biometrics capture, approve and process fingerprints, reconcile identities and biographical data
  • INSITE Program volunteer back up- conduct audits to ensure policies and procedures are being implemented accordingly
  • Adjudicate appeals, Motions to Reopen/Reconsider, and complex cases
  • Prepare Notice to Appear (NTA)
  • Administer oaths, collect permanent resident cards, and distribute certificates of Naturalization.
  • Assess immigration risks associated with entrants and apply risk management strategies to eliminate or minimize them.

Immigration Services Officer II

United States Citizen and Immigration Services, 26 Federal Plaza
07.2017 - 10.2021
  • Salary GS12.
  • Processed applicants in Naturalization Oath Ceremonies (N-400 and N-600)
  • Reviewed medical records and applications for trends in data and quality and referred cases to the fraud unit if needed
  • Mismatch data research and correction for Central Index System updates
  • Identified training needs and mentored new employees to ensure training was applied correctly, and assisted new officers in developing interview skills and adjudication discretion
  • Responded to all inquiries in a timely, courteous manner
  • Utilized several different systems, including systems used for the FBI, ICE, and FDNS Fraud Department
  • Interpreted data and prepared written reports on program effectiveness
  • Advised management on strategy and operationalization of technical management systems and special projects to identify solutions and optimize results
  • Analyzed complex public health policies, programs, and statistical standards to advise senior management on public health policies, operations, and services
  • Developed new ways to resolve problems in meeting established goals
  • Regularly assigned and completed difficult, complex, and challenging assignments and duties based on my past performance
  • Analyzed, troubleshoot, and resolved computer-related issues
  • Directed administrative and technical staff responsible for the adjudication process
  • Operated a variety of office machines, including photocopiers, scanners, facsimile machines, voice mail systems, and personal computers
  • Adjudicated Appeals, Motions to Reopen/ Reconsider, and complex cases
  • Prepare Notice to Appear (NTA)
  • Responded to customer, congressional, and Ombudsman inquiries
  • Analyzed and evaluated the effectiveness of program operations in meeting established regulatory and policy goals
  • Successfully researched the Immigration and Nationality Act and policy guide for correct decisions in complex cases
  • Identified, developed, and articulated comprehensive reports
  • Referred individuals who pose a threat to national security and egregious public safety to the Fraud Detection and National Security Unit (FDNS) when appropriate
  • Reviewed medical examination Forms: I-693 Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, N-648 Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions and Consular medical examinations and records to determine eligibility for benefits sought
  • Provided input into policies and action plans to ensure compliance.

Immigration Services Officer I

United States Citizen and Immigration Service
02.2017 - 07.2017
  • Salary GS07.
  • Processed immigration applications and petitions using available electronic systems to verify numerous established data points
  • Answered general and case-specific immigration questions in English or Spanish
  • Provided direct and continuing assistance to U.S
  • Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel and officials of other Federal agencies
  • Researched and interpreted an extensive spectrum of sources, including immigration laws and regulations, operating instructions, legislative history, precedent decisions, state and local laws, international treaties, and other legal references to follow the correct course of action

Immigration Services Assistant

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services
11.2016 - 02.2017
  • Salary GS05.
  • Provided and rendered a high level of service when responding to questions regarding status updates, next steps, travel, and strategy
  • Prepared forms in support of various nonimmigrant and immigrant petitions
  • Functioned and worked on special assignments that may require conducting research, preparing reports, and filing
  • Prescreened various applications and submissions by USCIS customers for accuracy and completeness of initial supporting documentation and scheduled applicant appointments for interviews and citizenship ceremonies, communicating directly with applicant and their representatives
  • Performed analysis on files, reports, and information systems and databases to update information and maintain data integrity
  • Produce susceptible and secure documents and certificates of naturalization
  • Identify incoming applications that require expedited service or requests for fee waivers and channel those through the correct work process
  • Edited and created office documents and correspondence using office automation software, i.e., graphics, database, spreadsheet, and word processing, and manage individual case files, accounted for the movement of files to other locations
  • Conducted audits of files and acted as a records liaison with other agencies
  • Retrieved information from other software systems (e.g., databases, spreadsheets, graphics, and word processing), analyzing data for inclusion in reports and publications.

Transportation Security Officer

J.F.K International Airport
05.2015 - 11.2017
  • Pay Band SV-E.
  • Screened passengers and accessible property moving through security checkpoints by using any combination of hands-on and other advanced imaging technology techniques
  • Reported detailed findings or incidents to management or law enforcement to help identify weaknesses in established protocol or flaws in terminal and equipment design
  • Conducted facial recognition and analyzed identification materials to distinguish potential security risks
  • Observed and analyze the behavior of travelers to identify potential security risks within the airport
  • Implemented security-screening procedures, monitoring the flow of traffic, and screening passengers and baggage, to ensure the protection of the traveling public
  • Expected to display honesty and flexibility, be accountable, work well with a team, and have strong communication skills
  • Conducted all duties with a focus on customer service while assisting passengers who had questions or special needs
  • Reported specific findings or incidents to management or law enforcement to help identify weaknesses in established protocol or flaws in terminal and equipment design
  • Performed comprehensive detecting with scanners, spectrometers, and x-ray equipment at the expert level
  • Preparing reports of inspection for investigative follow-up relating to national security checkpoint incidents
  • Multi-tasking while assisting with the processing of hundreds of passengers per hour while evaluating security and traffic throughput priorities
  • Observed and encouraged new employees and team members on their excellent work responses
  • Provided input to supervisors and managers relating to security and officer concerns
  • Providing written reviews to management relating to out-of-compliance equipment function and maintenance
  • Studying and researching to create plans and systems for defined projects to present to management
  • Advanced skills in security equipment: Explosive Trace Detection, Computed Tomography X-ray, Heimenn X-ray, and Advanced Imaging Technology
  • Coaching newly hired employees according to the TSA Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), operating x-ray machines and metal detectors to mitigate threats to aviation security and passengers
  • Performing full body pat down and bag search for concealed Items such as weapons or hazardous materials
  • TSA Playbook collateral duties: Controlled terminal entry and exit points
  • Interacting with the public, giving direction, and responding to inquiries
  • Maintaining focus and awareness while working in a stressful environment which includes noise from alarms, machinery, and people, crowd distractions, time pressure, and disruptive and angry passengers, to preserve the professional ability to identify and locate potentially life-threatening or mass destruction devices and to make effective decisions in both crisis and routine situations
  • You can perform playbook regularly to stop SIDA badge violations and prevent unauthorized employees or persons from entering the terminal.
  • We conducted searches of aircraft and cleaning crews to ensure the safety of travelers and adherence to federal regulations about transportation.

Legal Assisant-OPLA-Detail Assignment

NYC, 26 Federal Plaza
08.2019 - 11.2019
  • Organized and maintained documents in a paper or electronic filing systems
  • Gathered and arranged evidence and other legal documents for attorney review and case preparation
  • Completed administrative duties such as making copies, answering and directing phone calls, and greeting clients
  • Acted as point of contact for all incoming requests
  • Managed communication with the court regarding case status
  • Administered case management, including maintaining the attorney's calendar, monitoring deadlines, updating and reporting cases
  • Compiled evidence to be used in immigration court cases
  • Coordinated correspondence relating to political Asylum cases, applications for citizenship, and adjustment of status
  • Established and maintained strong professional relationships with outside counsel, attorneys, and the public.

Front Desk Agent

Best Western Gregory Hotel
06.2013 - 05.2015
  • Salary hourly/ 10.00 hourly
  • Prepared, organized, secured, and maintained all confidential files and audit records through the Opera system
  • Hands-on experience in keeping records of room availability and guests accounts manually and using computers
  • Provided guest services by solving problems, satisfying requests, operating phone console, organizing arrival and departure bills, reservations, and security
  • Prepared all month-end production reports and ensured the accuracy of each report
  • Checked in guests in a high volume, fast-paced environment, ensuring requests were met and accurate billing
  • Provided excellent customer service and tourism information and completed end-of-shift reports
  • Contributed to front desk sales generation by booking walk-ins, upgrading room reservations, and offering additional perks or promotional products
  • Oriented new employees on check-in and check-out procedures, front desk functions, room rates, and proper front desk management software use.
  • Guided new hires on proper conduct, attire, and appearance
  • Reached 90% room occupancy target by implementing innovative up-selling methods to promote hotel services and amenities
  • Prepared, organized, secured, and maintained all confidential files and audit records through the Opera system
  • Performed payroll functions, such as maintaining timekeeping information and processing and submitting payroll
  • Prepared weekly employee schedules for employees
  • Earned recognition from owners and clients consistently for excellent performance
  • Improved hotel rating on Tripadvisor.com from 22 out of 24 by implementing new strategies and improving customer service
  • Communicated with housekeeping staff regarding late check-outs, extended stays, the appearance of suite issues, and concerns
  • Developed positive rapport with guests, understood their needs, and built long-lasting relationships; created a guest-centric culture and environment.
  • Partnered with the management team to optimize hotel room inventory and meet 100% occupancy goal
  • Managed opening and closing rates and third-party portals to maximize both occupancy and ADR
  • Negotiated contracts and provided on-site detailing/servicing support for Government and Corporate agencies
  • Managed critical new and existing accounts to maintain and increase the hotel's total market share and meet and exceed hotel and individual revenue goals
  • Developed and strengthened client relationships with key corporate, government, and agency contacts to keep the hotel relevant and front of mind
  • Developed and implemented strategies for the front office, bell stand parking, concierges, etc.
  • That supports the achievement of the hotel's goals.
  • Provided ideas and suggestions for new products, services, technology, and processes to ensure the Hotel's competitive position and in anticipation of changing customer needs within the dynamic hospitality and gaming environment
  • Prepared travel arrangements for office staff and managers
  • Coordinated building and maintenance issues for general repair (heating and air conditioning, security, etc.) and updating (carpet cleaning, painting, etc.)
  • Organized special functions and social events and scheduled in-house and external events
  • Provided ideas and suggestions for new products, services, technology, and processes to ensure the Hotel's competitive position and in anticipation of changing customer needs within the dynamic hospitality and gaming environment
  • Planned and coordinated hotel housing activities by working closely with Sales, Catering, Housekeeping, and other departments
  • Conceptualized and implemented Disaster Help Program for individuals and families in need of immediate disaster relief assistance during Hurricane Sandy
  • Initiated, developed, and cultivated strategic business partnerships with Dolphin Gym, the District attorney's office, an approved oil company, and FEMA to meet customer expectations, provide value-added benefits, and increase overall profits.

Patient Care-Junior Volunteer Program

New York Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, Patient
06.2015 - 10.2015
  • Communicated patients' needs to nurses and acted as liaison for the healthcare team
  • Cleaned patient space and equipment, prepared beds, and restocked lab supplies
  • Maintained patient medical charts and filed medical record forms
  • Completed 70+ hours of volunteer service
  • Aided nurses in moving patients and providing supplies
  • Escorted patient families and visitors to their required destinations
  • Provided reception support and gave general information to visitors and families
  • Assisted patients in eating and daily tasks.
  • Completed activities of daily living for patients unable to self-care and assisted those with limited mobility in completing tasks.
  • Changed room linens, keeping spaces fresh and clean for patient health and satisfaction.

Education

Master of Business Administration - IT Management (in Progress)

Western Governors University

Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice

John Jay College of Criminal Justice
New York, NY
06.2013

Skills

  • Customer Relationship Management
  • Cross-Functional Communication
  • Case Management
  • Extensive coaching and mentoring experience
  • Immigration law and USCIS policy Knowledge
  • Ability to take charge of demanding situations
  • Equally able to work independently or as part of a team
  • Efficiently manages to change as situations arise
  • Project Organization
  • MS Office Proficiency
  • Tableau Proficiency
  • Legal Research and Writing
  • Confidentiality Understanding

Accomplishments

Committee Involvement USCIS Special Emphasis Program committee member, organized events to improve employee morale and create a positive work environment. (2019) Career Development Groups Participant in the USCIS Peer Networking Program (2021) USCIS Aspiring Leader Program (2021) LinkUp Program-MPA cohort-USCIS (2023)

Awards

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services Exceeded Job Performance (2022)


Languages

English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Native or Bilingual

Timeline

Immigration Services Officer II

United States Citizen and Immigration Services
10.2022 - Current

Immigration Services Officer II

United States Citizen and Immigration Services
05.2022 - 10.2022

Immigration Services Officer II

United States Citizen and Immigration Services, International BLVD
10.2021 - 05.2022

Legal Assisant-OPLA-Detail Assignment

NYC, 26 Federal Plaza
08.2019 - 11.2019

Immigration Services Officer II

United States Citizen and Immigration Services, 26 Federal Plaza
07.2017 - 10.2021

Immigration Services Officer I

United States Citizen and Immigration Service
02.2017 - 07.2017

Immigration Services Assistant

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services
11.2016 - 02.2017

Patient Care-Junior Volunteer Program

New York Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, Patient
06.2015 - 10.2015

Transportation Security Officer

J.F.K International Airport
05.2015 - 11.2017

Front Desk Agent

Best Western Gregory Hotel
06.2013 - 05.2015

Master of Business Administration - IT Management (in Progress)

Western Governors University

Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice

John Jay College of Criminal Justice

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Mercelinda Garcia