Job Announcements

Thank you for your patience with Friday Job Announcements as the ILPC undergoes staff changes! Below, find announcements from schools, organizations, firms, and the federal government (3/18/22-current).

To post an open Indian law or leadership job to Turtle Talk, send all of the following information to indigenous@law.msu.edu: 

In the email body: 

  • A typed brief description of the position which includes: 
    1. Position title 
    2. Location (city, state) 
    3. Main duties 
    4. Closing date 
    5. Any other pertinent details such as links to the application 
  • An attached PDF job announcement. 

Job Announcements from schools, organizations, firms, and the federal government


Schools and Organizations

University of Idaho College of Law

Postdoctoral Fellow, Tribal Economics.  The primary requirement is that this person needs to have a Ph.D, preferably in a field related to economics.  Beyond that, the position is designed broadly. The initial appointment is one year with the possibility of extension. The position will support interdisciplinary research in Native American law, economics in Indian Country, and tribal economic development with an emphasis on stakeholder engagement, community-based observing, and place-based approaches. Projects will include working directly with regional tribal communities to develop research that supports tribal economic development goals, provides College of Law students experiential learning opportunities, and significantly contributes to the scholarship in the Fellow’s fields. Candidates with research interests that overlap with the College’s other Native American Law research and teaching priorities (natural resources, water law, treaty rights, climate change, family law, violence against women) are particularly encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will be part of the UI Native American Law (“NAL”) Program and will help to develop program goals and support program students. The candidate will directly coordinate with the NAL Program Director to lead and/or co-lead NAL Program projects and to advance NAL Program strategic goals. This will entail working with, co-leading, and leading, college and university interdisciplinary teams to develop funding opportunities and enhance the co-production of knowledge in tribal economic development. See the description for more information and to apply.

The Indigenous Peoples Law & Policy Program at the University of Arizona James E. College of Law

Professor. IPLP is seeking a faculty colleague to lead the IPLP into its next phase. In its 20th year, the IPLP is unique in our approach to legal education in the fields of federal Indian law, tribal law and policy, and Indigenous peoples human rights. The IPLP hosts 7 full-time tenured faculty, 3 clinics, 6 degree programs, and nearly $2m in annual grants and contract funding. Students and alumni in the IPLP program are leaders in their communities, on campus, nationally and internationally.  Please visit the IPLP website for more information about the program.  The individual who is hired will take on the administrative role of running this global, multi-faceted program including recruiting students, developing educational programming, and seeking internal and external grant funding. The individual will also have the opportunity to teach in areas of interest and pursue their scholarly research agenda. Please feel free to contact the chair of the search committee, Teresa Miguel-Stearns (tmiguelstearns@arizona.edu), for additional information.

California Indian Legal Services

Staff Attorney. Escondido Office. California Indian Legal Services is a statewide, tribally controlled, non-profit corporation that provides legal services to Indian tribes, Indian organizations and low income individual Indians on issues involving Federal Indian Law. CILS provides a variety of legal services including brief counsel and advice and extended representation on core legal issues affecting Native Americans and Indian tribes. CILS is involved in litigation, policy analysis and advocacy, and also provides transactional services to tribes involving economic development and tribal infrastructure. Submit a resume, cover letter, and writing sample to Escondido Directing Attorney Mark Vezzola via e-mail at mvezzola@calindian.org.

Legal/Administrative Assistant. Eureka Field Office. Under the supervision of the Directing Attorney, this is a full-time position devoted to enhancing attorney effectiveness by providing information-management support; administrative and clerical support in a legal office environment. The work is specialized and requires knowledge of the preparation and processing requirements of legal documents, legal terminology, civil procedures and discovery, sources of law and the court system. For more information, please see the position description.

Columbia Riverkeeper

Staff Attorney. Portland or Hood River, Oregon. Depending on experience and qualifications, it may be possible to work remotely in Oregon or Washington, but periodic travel to Portland or Hood River would be necessary. Work is currently remote due to the pandemic, with the option to work from the office if preferred. The Staff Attorney is responsible for working with Riverkeeper’s team of community organizers, communications specialists, and attorneys to develop and execute campaigns, including representing Riverkeeper in litigation, administrative proceedings, rulemaking committees, and state legislatures. See the position description for more information and to apply. Application Deadline: April 18, 2022. Consider applying early; the Hiring Team will review applications on a rolling basis. 

Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation

Chief Executive Officer. South Dakota. CHMF is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to honor and accomplish the mission and vision of the organization. The CEO will manage and lead all aspects of the organization, including day-to-day operations, public relations, financial management, and oversight and implementation of the Board-approved strategic plan. Specific responsibilities and qualifications are listed below. For best chance of consideration, please submit your application by April 22, 2022. Apply here and see the description for more information.

Crime Victims Legal Assistance Project

Supervising Attorney. Northern Michigan, this position will be fully remote. The Supervising Attorney will provide case supervision for the CVLAP attorneys housed at Legal Services of Northern Michigan and the CVLAP Tribal Attorney, and work closely with the Managing Attorney and other CVLAP Supervising Attorneys in coordinating the activities of the CVLAP program. Responsibilities will include managing a caseload representing survivors of domestic violence and elder abuse (33-50%), working with the Managing Attorney to train/supervise 3 to 6 CVLAP staff attorneys, meet grant requirements including reporting, and coordinate intake and case assignment, and other administrative tasks as required. Complete this application form. Send your resume and cover letter as attachment(s) with “CVLAP Supervising Attorney” in the subject line to jobs@lsscm.org(link sends e-mail). For more information, see the description.

Earthjustice

Senior Attorney. Northern Rockies Office. Bozeman, MT, or Remote from  ID, MT, WY. Earthjustice is hiring an Associate Attorney to join our Fossil Fuels Program and fight. We use the power of the law to challenge the onslaught of new oil and gas infrastructure development that threatens climate, communities and our environment. This role will work cross-regionally with a focus on the Ohio River Valley, based in Chicago, Illinois. See the description for more information.

Supervisory Litigation Paralegal, Fossil Fuels Program. San Francisco | Chicago | New Orleans | Houston. Earthjustice is hiring a Supervisory Litigation Paralegal to join our Fossil Fuels Program. This role may be based from San Francisco, Chicago, New Orleans or Houston. See the description for more information.

Litigation Assistant. New York City. Earthjustice seeks a full-time Litigation Assistant to join the Northeast regional office, based in New York City.  The successful applicant will provide both substantive and administrative support to our team of attorneys, who litigate in federal and state courts and conduct administrative advocacy to defend the right of all people to a healthy environment and to speed our transition away from fossil fuels to clean and renewable energy. See the description for more information. 

Policy Advocate, Northwest Regional. Seattle, WA or Remote from Western Washington State. We are looking to add a Policy Advocate to our team. The Northwest Policy Advocate will be responsible for developing and implementing both legislative and administrative strategies in Washington, focusing at first on clean energy and transportation issues through an equity lens. The Policy Advocate’s docket could eventually expand to include a broader array of environmental issues impacting the Pacific Northwest region. The Policy Advocate will be a member of Earthjustice’s Northwest Regional Office, based in Seattle. Travel to Olympia, WA will be expected, and hybrid/remote work from the Olympia area will be considered. Applicants should submit via Jobvite by April 17, 2022. We are looking to onboard this role between June and August 2022.

Associate Attorney, Toxic Exposure & Health. This position will begin in September 2022 in New York, NY. Litigation Style Earthjustice seeks an Associate Attorney to join the Toxic Exposure & Health Program. Preference will be given to applicants who apply by April 18, 2022.

Environmental Law Institute

Development & Board Associate. As a part of ELI’s Development team, your primary objective will be to help raise funds and support the Board of Directors in order to contribute to ELI’s overall mission to foster innovative, just, and practical law and policy solutions to enable leaders across borders and sectors to make environmental, economic, and social progress. ELI will accept applications for this position until 11:59 pm EST Friday, April 22, 2022. However, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the post may be filled prior to the closing deadline. Please see the description for more information.

National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center (NIWRC)

ARP Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence Technical Assistance and Training Specialist, full-time (remote). This position will help strengthen NIWRC’s culturally-based COVID-19 technical assistance and resources for Native survivors of domestic violence and sexual violence. To apply, please complete and submit an employment application, a resume, cover letter, three professional references, two writing samples, and two examples of training slide decks to Brenda Hill, Director of Technical Assistance and Training, at careers@niwrc.org by April 15, 2022. 

ARP Technical Assistance and Training Specialist, full-time (remote). This position will help ensure NIWRC’s technical assistance and resource development in response to COVID-19 is culturally, historically, and legally relevant and supports the immediate crisis needs of Native survivors of violence. To apply, please complete and submit an employment application, a resume, cover letter, three professional references, two writing samples, and two examples of training slide decks to Brenda Hill, Director of Technical Assistance and Training, at careers@niwrc.org by April 15, 2022.

Data Specialist, full-time (remote). This position will provide technology and data support for NIWRC’s internal team projects and maintain an external ARP focused databases of resources for grantees. To apply, please complete and submit an employment application, a resume, cover letter, three professional references, and a portfolio demonstrating previous work to Tang Cheam, IT Director, at careers@niwrc.org by April 15, 2022.

IT Assistant, full-time (remote). This position will help provide NIWRC with technical support, tech support for virtual and onsite trainings, and assist with information requests. To apply, please complete and submit an employment application, a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to Tang Cheam, IT Director, at careers@niwrc.org by April 15, 2022.

Navajo Tribal Utility Authority

Associate Attorney (2 Positions). Fort Defiance, AZ. Provides legal guidance and advice involving various areas of law, such as contracts, proposals, leases, and employment. Reviews, researches, interprets, and prepares both written and oral opinions on a wide variety of legal issues, pleadings, motions, discovery and stipulations. Drafts, reviews, and approves policies and procedures, regulations, bylaws, and other legal documents. Writes, develops and recommends company policy, and more. Position is Open Until Filled. Interested candidates can apply here.

Public Rights Project

2022 Affirmative Leaders Fellows. We are looking for attorneys working in state, local, and tribal governments that are interested in bolstering their office’s affirmative litigation practice. Fellows must be current employees of a state, local, or tribal government law office with an active bar membership in the jurisdiction where their office is located. At least part of their job description should include affirmative litigation. Applications are due on May 6.  Apply by April 15 for a discount on the program fee. you can find our application online. You can also nominate someone to apply here. 

Save the Pine Barrens 

Attorney: environmental, Native American Indian law. Remote and in person, travel required, Based in Plymouth, MA (minimum 2 days a week in the office as COVID allows).STPB is a volunteer-led non-profit working to protect land and water in Southeastern Massachusetts from industrial sand mining and utility scale energy projects causing deforestation and threatening the groundwater aquifer, rivers, wetlands, environmental justice communities and Indigenous culture. STPB is part of a regional network of groups working to raise awareness about the role of forests, wetlands, and water and biodiversity protection in climate change mitigation and the impacts on Indigenous rights and land sovereignty from sand mining and deforestation. See the position description for more information and to apply.

The Friends Committee on National Legislation

Advocacy Corps organizers. FCNL a nonpartisan organization that lobbies Congress and the administration to advance peace and justice. This is a program that trains young adults ages 19-30 to work in their own communities to organize peers to lobby Congress to support and ultimately pass just policy. The 2022-23 Advocacy Corps cohort will work with the Native American Policy portfolio on passing the Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies in the United States Act. They will urge Congress to formally investigate the historic trauma of the boarding school era and develop recommendations for the government to take further action on this for the first time. Applications are due April 12th. Apply here.


Firms

Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein, LLP

Antitrust Associate. San Francisco, CA. Our diverse team of antitrust attorneys have successfully challenged cartels and monopolies in the pharmaceutical, high technology, electronic component, and medical industries on behalf of consumers, hospitals, local governments, and small businesses.  Associates have lead roles in cases, investigating cases, consulting closely with clients, taking and defending depositions, writing and arguing motions and appeals, working with experts, participating in trials and mediations. Resumes in confidence to: Lin Chan, Hiring Partner, Lieff, Cabraser, Heimann & Bernstein, LLP, 275 Battery St., 29th Fl, SF, CA 4111.  Email: jobs@lchb.com. Please apply here or send resumes in confidence to the attention of Michelle Reardon, Recruiting Coordinator, at mreardon@lchb.com.

Miller Nash LLP

Midlevel Transactional Indian Law Associate. Miller Nash’s lawyers are proud to provide legal counsel and guidance to tribal governments, organizations, and enterprises in many areas, including cannabis, gaming, tax, liquor, real estate, construction, intellectual property, labor and employment, data privacy, and other economic development matters. We are looking to expand our experienced Tribal team by adding an associate attorney with 2-4 years of experience with, and a passion for, addressing the complex transactional needs of tribes and tribal enterprises, as well as non-tribal clients in transactions with tribes and tribal enterprises. For more information, please see the job description.

Sonosky, Chambers, Sachse, Endreson & Perry LLP

Attorney. Albuquerque, NM. We are seeking an experienced attorney with 5 or more years of experience in litigation, transactional, water, natural resource, or Indian law matters.  Interested applicants should have strong credentials and a commitment to representing Native American interests.  More details about the firm are available at http://www.sonosky.com. To apply, candidates should send a cover letter, resume, law school transcript, and a writing sample to Susan Jones at susan@abqsonosky.com.  This position is open until filled.  Applicants should be licensed to practice or eligible to become licensed to practice law in New Mexico.


Federal Government

Department of the Interior

Attorney-Adviser. Albuquerque, NM. As an Attorney-Adviser with the Department of the Interior, Office of the Solicitor, Southwest Regional Office, your specific duties will include: Primary focus of this position will be on Federal Indian law, Federal water law, and other issues for BIA Navajo, including land and environmental law issues, National Environmental Policy Act and permitting matters, contracting issues (primarily under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act), leasing and right-of-way issues, trespass issues, forestry issues, and grazing issues, and more. For more information see the full description above and apply here.  Closing Date: 4-18-22.

Library of Congress

Specialist in Natural Resources Policy (Native American Issues). The Congressional Research Service (CRS), Resources, Science and Industry Division (RSI), seeks a Specialist in Natural Resources. The analyst will address natural resources policy with an emphasis on lands, natural resources, and energy and mineral issues in a tribal, American Indian, or Alaska Native context. Closing Date: April 21, 2022. For more information, see the description.

See previous post.

Job Announcements

Thank you for your patience with Friday Job Announcements as the ILPC undergoes staff changes! Below, find announcements from Tribes (3/18/22-current).

To post an open Indian law or leadership job to Turtle Talk, send all of the following information to indigenous@law.msu.edu: 

In the email body: 

  • A typed brief description of the position which includes: 
    1. Position title 
    2. Location (city, state) 
    3. Main duties 
    4. Closing date 
    5. Any other pertinent details such as links to the application 
  • An attached PDF job announcement. 

Job Announcements from Tribes

Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians

Tribal Prosecutor. Remote or hybrid (Petoskey, MI). Responsible for independently prosecuting criminal, juvenile, and other cases in tribal court and handling Indian child welfare cases in state court. Provides advice and prepares formal legal documents on a wide range of problems dealing with complaints and citations filed in Tribal Court. Responsibilities range from interviewing conservation enforcement officers, law enforcement officers, and individuals; to gathering and analyzing evidence in cases; to preparing and presenting evidence in Court. Open until filled. Please see the description for more information.  Please contact the Tribal Chairperson’s Office at (231) 242-1418 or tribalchair@ltbbodawa-nsn.gov with any questions.

Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi

(Staff Attorney – Full Time Exempt. NHBP Tribal Government Center, Fulton, MI. Attend meetings of the Tribal Council, Committees, regulatory board/commissions and Membership meetings as requested. Researches and drafts resolutions, Tribal laws, regulations, and policies for Tribal Council approval. Provide timely legal advice/counsel to, and draft legal opinions for, the Tribal Council and other subdivisions and instrumentalities of the Tribal government on a broad range of legal issues. For a full description see the job description and apply here. Application closes 05/05/2022 at 9:30 AM ET.

Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

Prosecutor. Mt Pleasant, MI. Under the supervision of Tribal Council, work closely with tribal law enforcement and judicial officials to effectively administer justice on the Isabella Indian Reservation on behalf of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan.  Prosecute crimes under the jurisdiction of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe within the exterior boundaries of the Isabella Reservation.  Act as Tribal Presenter in Child Abuse and Neglect cases.  All staff in Prosecutor’s office must adhere to mandated reporting laws. Please apply at www.sagchip.org click on employment at the top then click apply now.

Chief Judge. Mt. Pleasant, MI. This position will be open until filled. Oversees the administration of the Tribal Court, the control and management of the court budget and the supervision and oversight of all court personnel. Improve staff effectiveness by coaching, counseling, training and recommending disciplinary action for employees; planning, delegating, monitoring, appraising job tasks and results in a timely manner, and approving time sheets. For a full description, please see the job description and apply here.

The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Legal Department

Associate Tribal Attorney. Cass Lake, Minnesota office.  The Associate Tribal Attorney assists the Legal Director with analysis of ongoing cases and legal issues in a broad range of subject areas central to the needs of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe.  The tribal attorney is responsible for preparing and analyzing contracts, legal documents, Tribal Codes, ordinances and Resolutions.  The attorney will represent the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe in tribal, State and Federal Court.  The position is open until filled and the application materials can be found on the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe website at https://www.llojibwe.org/jobs/llbojobs.html.

Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe

Deputy Solicitor General. Onamia, MN. The Deputy Solicitor General performs legal work involving interpreting laws and regulations; preparing legal opinions, briefs, and other legal documents; rendering legal advice and counsel; consulting with trial attorneys; assisting in preparing cases for trial; drafting bills for legislative consideration, and assisting the Solicitor General in managing the affairs and duties of the function of Solicitor General. Closing Date: Until Filled. For more information see the description and apply here.

Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Legal Department

Associate Judge. Agency, SD. The Associate Judge is responsible for fairly and impartially hearing and deciding judicial cases and matters at the Tribal Court level within the jurisdiction of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate pursuant to tribal laws, codes, rules, and regulations. Extensive background in Indian law as it applies to Indian country. Closing Date: April 22, 2022. For more information and to apply, contact terrahaug@swo-nsn.gov.

Oglala Sioux Tribe

Marijuana Commission (2 positions: Commissioner and Alternate). The Commission is the regulatory entity responsible for carrying out the licensing and managing the possession, cultivation, transportation, laboratory testing and use of marijuana and marijuana products withing the territory of the Tribe pursuant to OST Ordinance No. 20-66, as amended. Duties include Seeking out and obtaining the latest training on marijuana laws and scientific and commercial developments involving marijuana cultivation and use, as well as the latest information on the accepted scientific methods utilized to test marijuana and marijuana-related items, and more. See the description for more information and to apply.

Lower Elwha Tribal Court

Chief Judge. Port Angeles, WA. The Chief Judge is chief judicial officer of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribal Court, the trial court of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe. The Chief Judge is appointed to a four-year term by the Lower Elwha Business Committee, the elected governing body of the Tribe. This position is responsible for fairly and impartially hearing and deciding judicial matters within the jurisdiction of the Lower Elwha Tribal Court pursuant to the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribal Judicial Code, ordinances, regulations, and applicable Federal and local laws. The Chief Judge conducts hearings and trials and performs other judicial duties. The Chief Judge is also the administrative supervisor of all Tribal Court staff and as such is responsible for the efficient and effective operation of all aspects of the Lower Elwha Tribe’s trial-court-level judicial system and for proper administration of justice. The Chief Judge has no direct authority over the Lower Elwha Court of Appeals, which consists of Justices appointed by the Business Committee under contract. To apply: Send resume, cover letter, legal writing sample (preferably a judicial writing sample), and three references via email to Sandra Johnson, Human Resources Director: sandra.johnson@elwha.org. Please also fill out an employment application.

Omaha Tribe of Nebraska

Attorney General. Omaha Tribal Court Macy, Nebraska Omaha Tribe of Nebraska. The position of Attorney General shall be responsible for protecting all Tribal assets, defending the integrity of the Tribe, assisting and advising all Tribal entities in their pursuit of progress on behalf of Tribal members, and managing and providing legal services and representation to the Tribe, the Tribal Council, the Tribal Government, and its Tribal Entities. The Attorney General is prohibited from offering legal advice or representing private individual members, but instead serves to protect the rights of all members of the Omaha Tribe administering fair and impartial justice. Open Until Filled.

Tribal Prosecutor. Omaha Tribal Court – Macy, Nebraska Omaha Tribe of Nebraska. Shall prosecute all criminal matters in the name of the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska, making independent decisions on whether to file formal charges, the nature of those charges, whether to recommend plea bargains and trying both jury and non-jury cases. Performs other duties as assigned by the supervisor. Open until filled.

Tohono O’odham Legislative Branch

Assistant Legislative Attorney (Level II – IV). Under the direction of the Legislative Attorney, provides legal advice and representation to the Legislative council and standing committees on a wide range of issues affecting the Tohono O’odham Nation; works with tribal, federal and state officials as well as national- and state-level tribal advocacy groups, other tribes, private individuals and entities; maintains confidentiality of all privileged information. For more information, please read the description.

Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs

Chief Judge. Warm Springs, OR. Protect all individual rights as guaranteed by the Constitution, By-laws, and the Law and Order Code of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs and the United States of America. Interact with Tribal Council, other judges and Tribal employees, prisoners, and the public. Work closely with police department, prosecutor’s office, parole & probation, Human Services, county, state and federal agencies. Closing date – 04/15/2022. For more information, please see the description.

Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians

Government Affairs Coordinator. Palm Springs, CA. The Government Affairs Coordinator will: (1) act as a liaison for the ACBCI Government and Legislative Affairs Department, serving as the primary contact between local, state, and federal jurisdictions and ACBCI; (2) coordinate administration of all political contributions; and (3) perform necessary administrative/clerical support for the Department as needed.  The successful applicant will be highly motivated and be able to independently provide to Tribal Council: (1) recommendations regarding strategic direction in government and legislative affairs working in collaboration with the Tribal Council, General Counsel, and existing state and federal lobbyists, (2) local, state, and federal policy analysis as it relates to short and long-term Tribal policy objectives. Apply to Brian Estenson,  bestenson@aguacaliente.net or apply online.

Navajo Nation Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General

Principal Tribal Court Advocate, Window Rock, AZ.  Performs legal work related to representation of the Navajo Nation government, as assigned by the Assistant Attorney General, including legal research, negotiations, legal writing, drafting pleadings, briefs, memoranda, resolutions and other documents for the divisions, departments, or programs assigned. Child Support Enforcement: Present child support enforcement cases before the Office of Hearings and Appeals. Participate in case staffing with Child Support Enforcement officers; provide legal advice and case strategy.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Principal Attorney (Water Right Unit), Window Rock, AZ.  Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, professionally represents the Nation in multiple water rights adjudications pending in state and federal courts, in state administrative water rights matters and in any settlement negotiations concerning the Nation’s water rights. The Principal Attorney works closely with technical staff within the Water Rights Unit Staff, Department of Water Resources and other programs within the Navajo Nation, and with consultants retained to provide technical support to the Nation or to serve as expert witnesses. The Principal Attorney provides legal advice on all water rights matters to the Office of the President and Vice President, the Office of the Speaker, the Navajo Nation council, and its committees and subcommittees and the Navajo Nation Water Rights commission (NNWRC) to ensure that the water rights of the Navajo Nation are effectively pursued and protected.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Senior Programmer Analyst, Window Rock, AZ.  Under general direction of the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, performs a variety of complex duties such as installing, programming, maintaining, and saving of organization’s digital information within the Office of the Attorney General. Responsibilities: Serves as a resource person with regard to matters relating to information systems, development and implementation of security controls, efficient use and maintenance of system and equipment; Facilitates implementation management information systems; Installs and maintains servers on local area networks; performs network device configurations, workstation set ups and assigns nodes or network address definitions; installs and monitors performance of servers on local area networks; coordinates system and LAN changes in users; performs diagnostic and problem resolution with staff; participates in formulation of integrated support plans for multiple local are network; Maintains knowledge of current trends in hardware and software technology relating to the practice of law, selecting the most feasible and economic methods to operate existing system.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Navajo Nation Office of the Prosecutor

Prosecutor, Kayenta, AZ.  Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in juvenile adjudications, dependencies, Children in Need of Supervision (CHNS); research and study of litigation of juvenile proceedings and child neglect cases including appellate cases, reviews police, social service, and related reports/complaints, and other law enforcement documents and reports; prepares oral arguments, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; attends juvenile related hearings in Navajo Nation Courts; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case, prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; performs extensive legal research. Makes decisions in sensitive case and seeks assistance as needed in the juvenile matter.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Senior Prosecutor, Shiprock, NM.  Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code; reviews citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; interviews witnesses, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; gathers and compiles evidence; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case. Prepares and presents criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; performs extensive legal research. Attends staff meetings, training, law seminars and workshops; provides training to Prosecutors and Juvenile Presenting Officers and on request to law enforcement personnel; collaborates with law enforcement agencies; negotiates settlement with opposing parties. Present major and complex litigation in District and Family Courts; perform extensive legal research; and perform other work-related tasks/assignments as assigned. This position is sedentary with a potential for high levels of stress. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Attorney (2 positions), Window Rock, AZ.  Under supervision of the Chief Prosecutor/Deputy Chief Prosecutor represents the interest of the Navajo Nation government. Provides and assists several district prosecutor offices in prosecution of criminal and civil cases representing the interests of the Navajo Nation government. Will attend arraignments, as needed; trials, adjudications, child dependency adjudications, motion hearings, sentencing/disposition hearings, pretrial conferences, preliminary hearings, and other related issues to court attendance; prepares all required legal documents; reviews investigative reports, legal pleadings from defense counsel, law enforcement reports and related documents; determines nature of the criminal offense; establishes case plan with law enforcement personnel from various governmental agencies on most serious criminal offenses such as vehicular homicide, sexual assault, aggravated batteries, child neglect or spousal abuse, etc.; assigns case plans; provides legal guidance and advice to law enforcement personnel in proceeding with investigation; prepares and obtains search warrants as necessary, conducts follow ups on cases and elements of cases, conducts legal research, review criminal complaints, interview witnesses, included but not limited to other legal matters.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until April 29, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Prosecutor, Window Rock, AZ.  Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code; reviews citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; interviews witnesses, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; gathers and compiles evidence; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case. Prepares and presents criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; performs extensive legal research.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until May 4, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Registration Open for NAICJA Annual Conference

Click here to register for the upcoming Tribal Judicial and Court Personnel Conference, hosted October 19-21, 2021 by the National American Indian Court Judges Association (NAICJA).

Scholarships are available on a first come, first serve basis for eligible applications.

18th Annual Indigenous Law Conference Will Be Virtual

We’ve chosen to go virtual again this year! There will be no in-person option for the 2021 Indigenous Law Conference. Register to join us on Zoom for two days of CLEs, a virtual reception, and of course, conference swag mailed right to you! Find up to date information at www.indigenouslawconference.com, including the tentative agenda. If you’d like to be a sponsor, click here to learn more.

NAICJA Conference and Awards

National American Indian Court Judges Association (NAICJA) is excited to announce the 52nd National Tribal Judicial and Court Personnel Virtual Conference to hosted October 19-21, 2021. Registration is coming soon and you can visit naicja.org for updates.

The NAICJA Board of Directors is soliciting nominations for four (4) NAICJA awards: the Lifetime Achievement Award, the Court Support Excellence Award the Judicial Excellence Award, and the Outstanding Service Award. The award criteria are detailed in the announcement below.

2021 NAICJA Award Nomination link here or PDF version here.

PDF save the date here.

18th Annual Indigenous Law Conference Tentative Agenda

Head to indigenouslawconference.com/2021-agenda for the tentative agenda!

Bay Mills to Host Third Annual VAWA and ICWA Training

Bay Mills Indian Community

3rd annual Noojimo’iwewin: A VAWA and ICWA Training

Aug. 4-6, in-person and online 

Imange: In 2019, attendees gathered for the training at the Bay Mills Resort & Casino. While 2020 brought us a year of online trainings, this year, the event will be hosted as a hybrid. Attendees can join in-person or online.

BRIMLEY, Mich. — Picking up where last year’s training left off, Bay Mills Indian Community sets out to host its third annual Noojimo’iwewin: A VAWA and ICWA Training, Aug. 4-6. The event is hosted both in-person at the Bay Mills Horizon Center and online via Zoom. Once again, this timely training focuses on issues of child welfare, domestic violence, and community healing. Registration is free and still open!

Those who will attend in-person must book their room by at the Bay Mills Resort & Casino by Tuesday, July 27 using the training room block information. If you have any questions, please contact Neoshia Roemer at neoshia@whitenergroup.biz. This training is made possible by the Office of Tribal Justice’s TJS funding and organized by The Whitener Group.

This course is approved for 9.25 (including 1.25 Elimination of Bias) Minnesota Continuing Legal Education credits and this course is approved by the NASW-Michigan Social Work Continuing Education Collaborative for 9 credits.

Full press release here.

SAIGE National Training Program September 14-16, 2021

Grounded in Tradition, Resilient in Spirit
SAIGE 17th Annual National Training Program
September 14-16, 2021
Hosted on Zoom

register today // PDF flyer here

The Society of American Indian Government Employees (SAIGE) is the first national non-profit organization representing American Indian and Alaska Native (Al/AN) Federal, Tribal, State and local government employees.

The 17th Annual National Training Program, open to all, provides professional training sessions related to Federal Indian Law/Indian Country, EEO/HR and Diversity issues, Professional Development, and Cultural and Natural Resource. These sessions are offered on the first two days of the event, September 14-15, while the final day is the Warrior Society program.

visit www.saigetraining.org for more information

Friday Job Announcements

____________________________________________________________________________

To post an open Indian law or leadership job to Turtle Talk, send the following information to indigenous@law.msu.edu:

In the email body:

  1. A typed brief description of the position which includes:
  2. Position title
  3. Location (city, state)
  4. Main duties
  5. Closing date
  6. Any other pertinent details such as links to the application
  7. An attached PDF job announcement.

____________________________________________________________________________

Tohono O’odham Nation

Attorney Prosecutor, Sells, AZ. The Attorney Prosecutor will: (1) Present criminal complaints and prosecutes individuals accused of violating the laws or ordinances of the Tohono O’odham Nation. (2) Protect the interests of both the nation and the victims of crime. (3) Prepares legal briefs; develops strategy, arguments and testimony in preparation for presentation of the case. Please see the position description for more information. Apply through the Human Resources Department here. Position is open until filled.

Udall Center for Studies in Public Policy at the University of Arizona

Director of the Udall Center, Tucson, AZ. The Director will: (1) Further enhance the Center’s visibility and impact. (2) Develop relationships and leverage the full capacity of the University of Arizona campus. (3) Foster a strong sense of community, equity, and inclusion. (4) Expand and diversify financial resources. (5) Strengthen bonds between the Udall Center and local, tribal, national, and international partners. For more details, including the full position profile and to submit inquiries, nominations, and referrals, visit here. Please submit CV’s with cover letters, a statement on diversity, and a list of five professional references directly to the University of Arizona here by August 15, 2021.

Native American Disability Law Center

Attorney, Farmington, NM. Serve Native Americans with disabilities living on or near the Navajo & Hopi reservations. Attorneys will: (1) Represent clients in administrative hearings, tribal, state, and federal court actions with a focus on systemic change. (2) Work with tribal governments on legislation & policies affecting individuals with disabilities. (3) Have a demonstrable interest in issues facing individuals with disabilities & a willingness to work with the community & non-attorney staff.  Please submit a cover letter, resume, and writing sample to tyanan@nativedisabilitylaw.org. Position is open until filled. 

Wisconsin Judicare, Inc.

Director of Indian Law Office (ILO), Wausau, WI. The Indian Law Office Director will: (1) Oversee the overall operation of the Indian Law Office (2) Supervise 2-3 Indian Law Office attorneys (3) Represent individual Native American clients and Tribes. Submit resume, references, and writing sample by July 30, 2021 to info@judicare.org. Please see the position description for more information.

The Yakama Nation Public Defender-Legal Aid Services Program

Washington Attorney, Toppenish, WA. Duties include representing Tribal members in criminal and civil Tribal Court and State court matters. The position is open until filled. Please contact Bevra Jacobson, Program Manager, at (509) 865-5121 ext. 4870 or bevra_jacobson@yakama.com for more information.

New Mexico Legal Aid

Staff Attorney for Native American Program, Santa Ana Pueblo, NM. Duties include: (1) Representing Native Americans as part of our Native American Program. (2) Handling cases and matters in several jurisdictions involving federal Indian law and tribal law issues, including representation of low-income individuals in Pueblo and tribal courts and other forums, which may include family law, consumer law, and criminal law matters. (3) Conducting outreach to tribal and Pueblo communities. (4) Handle poverty law issues involving consumer and family law matters in forums other than tribal courts. Priority Deadline: July 30, 2021, or until filled. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. 

Indian and Gaming Law Section

Deputy Attorney General III, Sacramento, CA. Duties include: (1) Handling both Indian law and gambling issues. (2) Advise and represent the State and the Governor in negotiation, interpretation, enforcement, and litigation in state and federal court concerning tribal gaming compacts. (3) Counsel the State and the Governor regarding various Indian law issues including environmental impacts resulting from projects occurring on tribal land; and more. Link to apply here. Please see the position description for more information. 

The Tulalip Office of Civil Legal Aid (TOCLA)

Domestic Violence Advocate Attorney, Tulalip, WA. (1) Provide civil legal services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, or stalking. (2) Ensure the rights of all individuals to a safe and secure environment, and to empower those who are oppressed by reducing trauma and ending re-victimization resulting in the protection of future generations. Please see the enclosed job description for more information. Please send a resume, cover letter, and writing sample to both: Tulalip Tribal Court Director Alicia Horne: Ahorne@tulaliptribes-nsn.gov, and TOCLA Program Manager Mika Jira at Mjira@tulaliptribes-nsn.gov. 

The Nez Perce Tribe

Law & Order Executive Officer (Manager-V), Lapwai, ID. Duties include (1) Providing executive level management for the Law and Order operations of the Nez Perce Tribe; specifically the divisions of Judicial Services (court), Law Enforcement, Prosecutor, Probation, Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO), Victim’s Assistance, and Child Support Program (CSP). (2) Facilitating intra-departmental, intertribal, and interagency coordination. Position open until filled. Link to Nez Perce Tribal Employment Application here. See position description for further information.

See previous posts.

Job Announcements

To post an open Indian law or leadership job to Turtle Talk, send the following information to indigenous@law.msu.edu:

  1. In the email body, a typed brief description of the position which includes
    1. position title,
    1. location (city, state),
    1. main duties,
    1. closing date,
    1. and any other pertinent details such as links to application;
  2. An attached PDF job announcement.


The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

Director, Office of Public Participation, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.  The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is currently seeking to hire a Director to lead OPP.  The Director is the principal advisor to the Chairman and Commissioners charged with coordinating and providing assistance to the public with respect to authorities exercised by the Commission.  In carrying out these functions, OPP will work closely with the Commission’s Office of External Affairs intergovernmental advisor, the Office of General Counsel including the Senior Counsel for Environmental Justice and Equity, and the Office of Energy Projects, amongst others.   This collaboration will better ensure that the concerns of Tribal members, environmental justice communities, and other historically marginalized communities are fully and fairly considered in Commission proceedings.  The incumbent is also responsible for coordinating assistance available to persons intervening or participating or proposing to intervene or participate in proceedings before the Commission.  This position is open until July 15, 2021.  Interested candidates should apply through USA Jobs

Navajo Nation Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General:

Principal Tribal Court Advocate, Window Rock, AZ.  Performs legal work related to representation of the Navajo Nation government, as assigned by the Assistant Attorney General, including legal research, negotiations, legal writing, drafting pleadings, briefs, memoranda, resolutions and other documents for the divisions, departments, or programs assigned. Child Support Enforcement: Present child support enforcement cases before the Office of Hearings and Appeals. Participate in case staffing with Child Support Enforcement officers; provide legal advice and case strategy.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Principal Attorney (Water Right Unit), Window Rock, AZ.  Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, professionally represents the Nation in multiple water rights adjudications pending in state and federal courts, in state administrative water rights matters and in any settlement negotiations concerning the Nation’s water rights. The Principal Attorney works closely with technical staff within the Water Rights Unit Staff, Department of Water Resources and other programs within the Navajo Nation, and with consultants retained to provide technical support to the Nation or to serve as expert witnesses. The Principal Attorney provides legal advice on all water rights matters to the Office of the President and Vice President, the Office of the Speaker, the Navajo Nation council, and its committees and subcommittees and the Navajo Nation Water Rights commission (NNWRC) to ensure that the water rights of the Navajo Nation are effectively pursued and protected.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Office of the Chief Prosecutor:

Chief Prosecutor, Window Rock, AZ.  The Chief Prosecutor performs administrative, managerial, and prosecution work in directing the Office of the Chief Prosecutor and component districts including the Juvenile Justice and White Collar Crime programs.  Administers short and long range planning, organizing, directing, strategic planning for annual, external, and supplemental budgets, and related activities of the Office of the Chief Prosecutor.  Coordinates and evaluates the overall effectiveness of the assigned program offices and districts.  Responsible for adhering to the Plan of Operation and establishing annual goals and objectives, and making necessary amendments.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Attorney General.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Office of the Prosecutor:

Attorney, Ramah, NM.  Under supervision of the Chief Prosecutor/Deputy Chief Prosecutor represents the interest of the Navajo Nation government. Provides and assists several district prosecutor offices in prosecution of criminal and civil cases representing the interests of the Navajo Nation government. Will attend arraignments, as needed; trials, adjudications, child dependency adjudications, motion hearings, sentencing/disposition hearings, pretrial conferences, preliminary hearings, and other related issues to court attendance; prepares all required legal documents; reviews investigative reports, legal pleadings from defense counsel, law enforcement reports and related documents; determines nature of the criminal offense; establishes case plan with law enforcement personnel from various governmental agencies on most serious criminal offenses such as vehicular homicide, sexual assault, aggravated batteries, child neglect or spousal abuse, etc.; assigns case plans; provides legal guidance and advice to law enforcement personnel in proceeding with investigation; prepares and obtains search warrants as necessary, conducts follow ups on cases and elements of cases, conducts legal research, review criminal complaints, interview witnesses, included but not limited to other legal matters.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Senior Prosecutor, Chinle, AZ.  Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code; reviews citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; interviews witnesses, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; gathers and compiles evidence; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case. Prepares and presents criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; performs extensive legal research.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Prosecutor, Crownpoint, NM.   Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in juvenile adjudications, dependencies, Children in Need of Supervision (CHNS); research and study of litigation of juvenile proceedings and child neglect cases including appellate cases, reviews police, social service, and related reports/complaints, and other law enforcement documents and reports; prepares oral arguments, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; attends juvenile related hearings in Navajo Nation Courts; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case, prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; performs extensive legal research. Makes decisions in sensitive case and seeks assistance as needed in the juvenile matter.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until July 8, 2021 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.


Humboldt County California, Department of Health and Human Services

Social Worker IV A-D: Humboldt County California. This position is an ICWA specific position with Child Welfare Services. Responsible for Native American children and family casework of advanced nature in the most complex social services areas.  Casework requires experience with Native families, experience and understanding of active and reasonable efforts, and the application of high level and sophisticated social service expertise and techniques. Incumbents at the Social Worker IV, C/D ranges additionally may perform professional level assessment, diagnosis, group, family and individual therapy and consultation with Native American families. Closing date: July 12, 2021. For details on how to apply, please click the job description.

Oneida Judiciary (WI)

Family Court Judge, Oneida, WI.  The Family Court Judge is responsible for presiding over the Oneida Nation’s family law and child welfare cases; oversees proper management of the Family Court’s calendar and business, including recruiting and training guardians ad litem; supervises the Clerks of Family Court; and assists in developing the annual budget for the Family Court.  The Family Court Judge must (1) have a juris doctor from an accredited law school, (2) have at least 5 years of experience practicing in the area of family law; and (3) be licensed to practice law in the State of Wisconsin or gain admission to the State Bar of Wisconsin within one year of taking office.  For more information, please see the position description or apply at https://oneida-nsn.gov/divisions/hr-employment/job-employment/.  The position is open until filled.

Mark Echo Hawk
Paralegal, Remote. The position involves assisting Tribal attorney Mark Echo Hawk on diverse legal matters associated with federal Indian law and representing Tribal government and Tribal businesses. Applicants must demonstrate excellent communication skills, attention to detail, superior proofreading capacity and organizational ability, and be proficient in MS Word, Excel, Outlook and legal practice management programs. Administrative duties will include calendaring, client and agency/court communications, and assigned office management tasks. Five years of paralegal experience and a paralegal certificate are preferred. We provide benefits including health insurance, 401K, and competitive compensation DOE. Please send your resume, a writing sample, and cover letter to mark@echohawk.com. Closing Date: Friday, July 16, 2021 For more information, please see the position description.

Western Environmental Law Center (WELC)

Staff Attorney, Wildlands & Wildlife Program (Pacific Northwest). This full-time position will be located in Portland or Eugene, Oregon, or in Seattle, Washington (remote locations in the Pacific Northwest will also be considered). The three areas of focus for this position’s responsibilities include: 1) Engage in strategic, legal, and policy advocacy, including litigation, on behalf of WELC clients and partners on Western U.S. federal public lands and wildlife management issues; 2) Develop and maintain relationships with historically under-represented communities, with a particular emphasis on Pacific Northwest Indigenous Nations and communities; and 3) Work with WELC leadership to expand and deepen the organization’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and justice in the Pacific Northwest. Please see the full PDF job description accessible from this posting and on the WELC website for complete details. To apply, please send requested application materials to jobs@westernlaw.org by August 1, 2021. This position will remain open until filled.

Staff Attorney, Climate & Energy Program (Helena, MT). This is a full-time position to join our team in Helena, Montana, but other WELC offices and remote locations will be considered. The central focus of this position is strategic, legal, and policy advocacy centered on the confluence of the climate crisis with the federal public lands fossil fuels program. The three areas of focus for this position’s responsibilities include: 1) Litigation and administrative engagement pertaining to federal public lands fossil fuel planning, leasing, infrastructure, and drilling approvals; 2) Engagement in federal climate, fossil fuels, public lands, and energy transition legislation, rulemaking, and policymaking; and 3) Advocacy to link and amplify federal fossil fuels advocacy with Tribal, state, and community-based climate, fossil fuels, and energy transition action. Please see the full PDF job description accessible from this posting and on the WELC website for complete details. To apply, please send requested application materials to jobs@westernlaw.org by August 15, 2021. This position will remain open until filled.

The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe

Associate Tribal Attorney, Cass Lake, Minnesota.  The Associate Tribal Attorney assists the Legal Director with analysis of ongoing cases and legal issues in a broad range of subject areas central to the needs of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe.  The tribal attorney is responsible for preparing and analyzing contracts, legal documents, Tribal Codes, ordinances and Resolutions.  The attorney will represent the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe in tribal, State and Federal Court.  The position is open until filled and the application materials can be found on the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe website at https://www.llojibwe.org/jobs/llbojobs.html.

Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe

Associate Tribal Attorney.  The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe seeks a full-time Associate Tribal Attorney for its on-reservation Office of Tribal Attorney (“OTA”). The Lower Elwha Reservation is located five miles west of Port Angeles, WA, near Olympic National Park. OTA was established in 2008 and handles most of the Tribe’s legal workload while also supervising outside counsel. This is a new position and will be the third Attorney in OTA. Associate will have a significant caseload spanning the full spectrum of tribal legal work. Open until filled, but desire to fill ASAP. For details on how to apply, please click on position title to see attached Announcement.

Earthjustice

Associate Attorney, Northeast Regional Office, New York City.  The Associate Attorney will support and collaborate with our team of lawyers and scientists working to support healthy communities and speed the transition from dirty fossil fuels to clean energy solutions in the Northeast region. Candidates interested in Associate Attorney, Northeast role should submit a resume, cover letter, three professional references and a writing sample. Link to apply here. Please see the position description for more information.

See previous posts.