Friday Job Announcements

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

  • Position title
  • Location (city, state)
  • Main duties
  • Closing date
  • Any other pertinent details, such as a link to the application
  • An attached PDF job announcement or link to the position description

University of Montana

Native American Student Support Specialist. Missoula, MT. This position will focus on the recruitment, retention, and overall success of Native American students in ABIII and Baucus Institute programs. The NASS Specialist will work closely with ABIII and Institute staff, Law and Department of Public Administration and Policy (DPAP) faculty, and will build relationships and facilitate collaboration with stakeholders and partners across campus and throughout the state. Closing date: Sunday, May 7, 2023.

Southern Ute Indian Tribe

Tribal Attorney. Ignacio, CO. The Southern Ute Indian Tribe is looking for a self-motivated, personable, disciplined, and compassionate attorney to join the in-house Legal Department on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation in sunny, mountainous, southwest Colorado. The Legal Department provides legal representation, advice, and support to the Tribal government.  The team of well-established tribal attorneys work together on a broad range of projects, including filing briefs in the U.S. Supreme Court, negotiating intergovernmental agreements, drafting comments on proposed legislation, and supporting tribal initiatives and services. The work is exciting, interesting, fulfilling, and challenging. Closing date – Open until filled.

Earthjustice

Legal Externs – Fall 2023. We are seeking 2L and 3L law students who share a passion for justice and a healthy environment, and who are eligible to receive academic credit or fulfill a graduation requirement through this externship. The successful candidate may work remotely or on a hybrid schedule from one of Earthjustice’s offices. The deadline to apply is May 14, 2023.

Alaska Public Defender Agency

Attorney 1-4. Alaska (Statewide): Anchorage, Bethel, Dillingham, Fairbanks, Juneau, Kenai, Ketchikan, Kodiak, Kotzebue, Nome, Palmer, Sitka, and Utqiagvik. The Agency’s mission is to provide constitutionally mandated legal representation to indigent clients appointed by the court. The Agency hires new lawyers and experienced attorneys to handle civil (Child in Need of Aid and commitment), appellate, and criminal matters. Effective February 27, 2023, the Uniform Bar Examination (UBE) score to pass the UBE for Alaska was reduced from 280 to 270, with a retroactive period of five years. Open until filled.

Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians

Assistant Attorney General. Alpine, CA. The Assistant Attorney General will work in the Office of the Attorney General under the direct supervision of the Attorney General for the Viejas Band. The Assistant Attorney General will work with the Attorney General and Deputy Attorneys General to render legal services to the Viejas Band, including its government departments, enterprises, and elected officials. Competitive salary depending on experience and comprehensive benefits. Open until filled.

Pueblo of Laguna

In-House Attorney. Laguna, NM – Full-time attorney to provide legal advice, draft codes and policies, and protect government interests performing general counsel legal work.  One of three In-house attorneys and works with Pueblo officials and management under supervision of Government Affairs Director.  Mostly transactional with some litigation.  Compensation DOE, open until filled. 

Public Defender. Laguna, NM – Full-time attorney to represent and advocate for adults in criminal cases and juveniles in delinquency cases before Laguna Pueblo Court when accused of violating Pueblo of Laguna law.  Advocates for Pueblo community members to achieve justice and rehabilitation.  One of two legal positions in Community Legal Services division and shares full-time assistant the Pueblo’s legal aid attorney, works under supervision of Government Affairs Director. Compensation DOE, open until filled.

Prosecutor. Laguna, NM – Full-time attorney to prosecute adult criminal defendants and juveniles in Laguna Pueblo Court for violating Laguna Pueblo law.  Advocates for the Pueblo to achieve justice and rehabilitation. Works in office having a full-time assistant and victim’s advocate, and is under supervision of the Pueblo Governor.  Compensation DOE, open until filled.

California Tribal Families Coalition

Post-Graduate Legal Fellowship. Sacramento, CA/REMOTE. California Tribal Families Coalition is honored to offer the inaugural San Manuel Tribal Advocacy Fellowship – a new post-graduation position for law students who have lived experience in tribal communities and a demonstrated interest in federal Indian/tribal law or child welfare. The Fellowship is a one-year position and will provide a competitive salary, student loan forgiveness as needed, and mentoring and training in Indian law, specifically in Indian child welfare work. Applicants must be willing to take the California Bar Exam and commit to the one-year position beginning in or around August 2023. Apply by sending a resume, cover letter, 2 letters of recommendation, law school transcripts, writing sample, and short answers to the following prompts: 1) Please describe your interest and experience related to tribal communities; 2) Please describe your interest and experience related to child welfare. The deadline for applications is 11:59 PM Pacific on April 10, 2023.

The Wilderness Society

Sr. Manager – Renewable Energy. Denver, CO or Washington, DC Preferred. As a member of the Climate and Energy team, the Senior Manager for Renewable Energy will support efforts to make public lands part of the climate solution, primarily ensuring needed new renewable energy infrastructure on public lands is developed responsibly in a manner that supports efforts to conserve biodiversity and enhance community resilience while advancing climate protection. Closing date: April 16, 2023.

Navajo Nation

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.

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.

Principal Attorney. Window Rock, AZ.  Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, represents the Navajo Nation government; Review documents, such as service contracts, sub-recipient and grant agreements, legislation, proposed policies, etc., for legal sufficiency. Participate in negotiations regarding legal documents/agreements with parties outside of the Navajo Nation. Respond to Request for Services and other legal inquiries from clients. Perform legal research and provide legal advice verbally and in writing. Legal advice and services will include: conducting initial eligibility determination reviews on proposed FRF expenditure plans; interpreting federal, state, and Navajo laws, regulation, policies, and procedures; and advising on legal compliance in the implementation of FRF programs and projects. This position is open until filled.

Attorney (Litigation Unit). Window Rock, AZ. Legal work related to federal, Navajo Nation, and state court and administrative tribunal representation of the Navajo Nation Government, as assigned by the Assistant Attorney General of the Litigation Unit or the Office of the Attorney General, and Deputy Attorney General, including legal research, pleading drafting, and settlement negotiation for Litigation Unit of the Department of Justice. Review of proposed disciplinary actions by Navajo Nation government programs for compliance with Navajo Nation Personnel Policies Manual and Navajo Preference in Employment Act. Drafting of proposed Navajo Nation legislation, regulations, and policies. Other duties as assigned.  This position is open until filled.

Attorney (Human Services and Government Unit). Window Rock, AZ.  Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, represents the Navajo Nation government in reviewing documents, such as services contracts, sub-recipient and grant agreements, legislation, proposed policies, etc., for legal sufficiency. Participates in negotiations regarding legal documents/agreements with parties outside of the Navajo Nation. Respond to Request for Services and other legal inquiries from clients. Perform legal research and provide legal advice verbally and in writing. Legal advice and services will include: conducting initial eligibility determination reviews on proposed FRF expenditure plans; interpreting federal, state, and Navajo laws, regulation, policies, and procedures; and advising on legal compliance in the implementation of FRF programs and projects.  This position is open until filled. 

Attorney Candidate. Window Rock, AZ.  Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General, the Attorney General, or the Deputy Attorney General, provides legal direction to Navajo Nation Divisions, Departments and offices, regarding a wide range of legal issues, including statutory and regulatory authority, contracts and procurement issues, and intergovernmental relations; Assists Attorneys; prepares and presents civil cases in tribal court and administrative bodies; confers and provides guidance, and prepares advisory opinions for assigned departments and branches of the government; prepares interpretations of new legislation and judicial decisions; reviews contracts, leases, permits and related documents; interviews witnesses, complainants, and others on a variety of legal matters; conducts legal research, prepares briefs, pleadings and other legal documents.  This position is open until filled.

Senior Attorney (Tax and Finance Unit). Window Rock, AZ.  Respond to Requests for Services and other legal inquiries from clients, particularly in the area of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and federal Fiscal Recovery Funds (FRF). Perform legal research and provide legal advice orally and in writing.  Legal advice and services will include: conducting initial eligibility determination reviews on proposed FRF expenditure plans; interpreting federal, state, and Navajo laws, regulations, policies, and procedures; as well as advising on legal compliance in the implementation of FRF programs and projects. Participate in Legislative Branch and Executive Branch meetings, including Standing Committee meetings and Council Sessions, regarding approval of FRF expenditure plans and the planning and implementation of FRF programs and projects, in order to respond to legal questions pertaining ARPA and the use of FRF.  This position is open until filled.

Principal Attorney (Human Services and Government Unit). Window Rock, AZ.  Under the general direction of the Assistant Attorney General, Attorney General or the Deputy Attorney General, the position is assigned to the “Humans Services & Government Unit” of the Office of the Attorney General; Provides legal direction to other attorneys and advocates in providing complex legal representation of Navajo Nation Divisions, Departments, and Programs regarding a wide range of legal issues, including the Divisions of Education, Health, Social Services, General Services, Human Resources, and Law Enforcement. Some legal issues may include statutory and regulatory review, contract disputes and procurement issues, and intergovernmental relations; performs professional legal work, research; presents cases in court and performs related duties as required; confers with, gives advice to and prepares opinions for various departments and branches of the Navajo Nation. This position is open until filled.

Attorney (Human Services and Government Unit). Window Rock, AZ.  Under general direction of Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General, and Deputy Attorney General, provides legal direction to Navajo Nation Division, Departments and Offices, regarding a wide range of legal issues, including statutory and regulatory authority, contract disputes and procurement issues; and intergovernmental relations; performs professional legal work in research, trial prep and other legal work; and performs related duties as required. Confers with, gives advice to, and prepares opinions for assigned departments and branches of the government; drafts legal and judicial processes; prepares interpretations of new legislation and judicial decisions; reviews contracts, leases, permits and related documents; interviews witnesses, complainants, and others on a variety of legal matters; conducts legal research, prepares briefs, pleadings and other legal documents.  This position is open until filled.

Attorney (Chapter Unit). Window Rock, AZ. Under the general supervision of the Assistant Attorney General within the DOJ/Chapter Unit, provides legal direction to the Division of Community Development regarding a wide range of legal issues related to Navajo Nation Chapters. Legal work related to representation of the Navajo Nation Government, as assigned by the Attorney General and the Assistant Attorney General, including legal research, negotiations, legal writing, pleadings, briefs, memoranda, resolutions and other documents for division, department, program assigned. Assist as needed in court appearances, research and writing, including drafting of appellate brief, for cases in Navajo Nation, State and Federal Courts. This position is open until April 17, 2023 by 5:00 p.m.

Attorney (Natural Resources Unit/FRF). Window Rock, AZ. Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General. Review documents, such as services contracts, sub-recipient and grant agreements, legislation, proposed policies, etc., for legal sufficiency. Participate in negotiations regarding legal documents/agreements with parties outside of the Navajo Nation. Respond to Request for Services and other legal inquiries from clients. Perform legal research and provide legal advice verbally and in writing. Legal advice and services will include: conducting initial eligibility determination reviews on proposed FRF expenditure plans; interpreting federal, state, and Navajo laws, regulation, policies, and procedures; and advising on legal compliance in the implementation of FRF programs and projects. This position is open until filled.

Legal Secretary (Litigation Unit). Window Rock, AZ. Provides customer service by greeting clients and answering phone calls. Provides general office support by distributing incoming/outgoing mail; schedule meetings, conferences, conference calls and travel arrangements for assigned professional staff. Maintains all case files for the Litigation Unit. Finalizes pleadings to be submitted for filing in a tribal, federal, state or administrative tribunal. Files documents in-person and via fax, email, and internet. Assists in maintaining office files in accordance with the Department of Justice filing system which includes but is not limited to: logging in documents for review and following up with professional staff on timely completion or review, securing all necessary signatures, scanning all documents, contacting the program to retrieve the reviewed documents. This position is open until filled.

Legal Secretary (Water Rights Unit). Window Rock, AZ. Under the direction of the Administrative Legal Secretary and the Assistant Attorney General, provides general office support by greeting clients, answering telephone calls, and screening and routing calls, requests and visitors to Unit staff. Records messages accurately left by clients, callers, visitors, etc. Understands and utilizes software and technology necessary to perform duties, i.e. Microsoft Office, Outlook, Windows, Excel, PowerPoint, etc. Operates a variety of office equipment, including transcribing machines, calculators, copiers, facsimile machines, scanners, binding machines, printers, paper shredders and other types of equipment as technology changes. Schedules meetings, conferences, conference calls and other types of appointments. Prepares agendas and meeting materials. Prepares and assists in the preparation of notices, petitions, pleadings, complaints, briefs, summons, orders, affidavits and other legal forms and documents. This position is open until April 17, 2023 by 5:00 p.m.

Law Clerk – Intern. Window Rock, AZ.  Under general supervision of the Attorney General, Deputy Attorney General or the Assistant Attorney General, will perform legal research on applicable legal and factual issues using computerized techniques and/or Westlaw library materials; will interpret and apply laws, court decisions and other legal authorities in the preparation of briefs, correspondence, and related documents; will ensure all written work is thoroughly reviewed by a supervising attorney; will contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of the unit’s service to its clients by offering suggestions and participating as an active member of a work team; will maintain accurate records and files; will prepare a variety of records and reports as assigned; will attend meetings to obtain information and to learn about the Navajo Nation and substantive subject areas.  This position is open until filled.

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.

Senior Prosecutor. Crownpoint, NM. Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code and present major and complex litigation in District and Family Courts. 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; collaborates with law enforcement agencies; and negotiates settlement with opposing parties. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor. This position is open until filled.

Prosecutor. Crownpoint, 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.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until filled.

Traditional Program Specialist. Crownpoint, NM, Shiprock, NM, Kayenta, AZ. Provide administrative support, recruit, orientate, train and mentor peacemakers;  Recommend and guide individuals and families with follow-up services;  Provide guidance in traditional Navajo healing approaches incorporating both Western, faith-based and Navajo traditional philosophies;  Implement the Peacemaking Program’s traditional curriculum to provide services to youth, adults, families to restore harmony;  Attend trainings and conferences pursuant to established training plans;  Randomly monitor and promote the effectiveness and efficiency of peacemakers;  Assist with written agreements and narratives;  Interview individuals to obtain and verify required case documents and other information; Performs intake process for individuals or as ordered by the court. Open Until Filled.

Judicial Hearing Officer. Window Rock, AZ/ Shiprock, NM. Under the administrative supervision of the Chief Justice or his/her designee, this position exercises authority to preside over hearings and dispositions involving the Domestic Abuse Protection Act and Alchinni Bi Beehazannii Act occurring within the respective jurisdictions of the District Courts of the Navajo Nation; performs related work as assigned. Open Until Filled.

Court Solicitor. Window Rock, AZ. Under the general direction of the Chief Justice or his/her designee, provides a variety of legal advice, counseling, research and related legal services in support of the overall judicial operation of the Navajo Nation Judicial Branch; develops and implements improved court processes and supports courts in their use; provides legal advice, research and drafting documents for court operations; performs related duties as assigned. Serves as attorney advisor for court operations, specifically on the development of court rules, forms and standards throughout the Judicial Branch; focuses on development of case management policies and procedures to effectively provide excellent services to court customers; performs analysis and assessment of court operations and case management process; develops procedures and policies to ensure consistent. Open Until Filled.

Staff Attorney. Aneth, UT, Chinle, AZ, Kayenta, AZ. Under general direction of the Judges of the assigned district, performs work of considerable difficulty in providing complex legal advice and guidance; conducts legal research and drafts legal documents in support of the judges, court solicitor and court administrators; undertakes special projects for the Judicial Branch; performs related duties as assigned. Open Until Filled.

Associate Justice. Window Rock, AZ. Under administrative direction of the Chief Justice, performs work of unusual difficulty, hears arguments, reads briefs and conducts research necessary to pass judgment and issue rulings on cases brought before the Navajo Nation Supreme Court; may serve as acting Chief Justice; performs related duties as assigned. Open Until Filled.

District Court Judges. Navajo Nation Wide. Under administrative direction of the Chief Justice, performs work of unusual difficulty in presiding over civil, criminal and family court cases; provides policy direction and guidance in the operation of Judicial Districts; performs related duties as assigned. Open Until Filled.

Click here for last week’s job announcements!

Job Announcements

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

  • Position title
  • Location (city, state)
  • Main duties
  • Closing date
  • Any other pertinent details, such as a link to the application
  • An attached PDF job announcement or link to the position description

Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation

Staff Attorney. Oakville, WA. Representing the Departments of the Tribe, the Tribe’s enterprises, and the Chehalis Tribe Housing Authority.  This work will focus on transactional work and providing other Indian Law and sovereignty services for the Tribe including litigation, research, and other tribal and state court related matters. Closing Date: April 30, 2023.

Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation

Traditional Program Specialist. Crownpoint, NM, Shiprock, NM, Kayenta, AZ. Provide administrative support, recruit, orientate, train and mentor peacemakers;  Recommend and guide individuals and families with follow-up services;  Provide guidance in traditional Navajo healing approaches incorporating both Western, faith-based and Navajo traditional philosophies;  Implement the Peacemaking Program’s traditional curriculum to provide services to youth, adults, families to restore harmony;  Attend trainings and conferences pursuant to established training plans;  Randomly monitor and promote the effectiveness and efficiency of peacemakers;  Assist with written agreements and narratives;  Interview individuals to obtain and verify required case documents and other information; Performs intake process for individuals or as ordered by the court. Open Until Filled.

Judicial Hearing Officer. Window Rock, AZ/ Shiprock, NM. Under the administrative supervision of the Chief Justice or his/her designee, this position exercises authority to preside over hearings and dispositions involving the Domestic Abuse Protection Act and Alchinni Bi Beehazannii Act occurring within the respective jurisdictions of the District Courts of the Navajo Nation; performs related work as assigned. Open Until Filled.

Court Solicitor. Window Rock, AZ. Under the general direction of the Chief Justice or his/her designee, provides a variety of legal advice, counseling, research and related legal services in support of the overall judicial operation of the Navajo Nation Judicial Branch; develops and implements improved court processes and supports courts in their use; provides legal advice, research and drafting documents for court operations; performs related duties as assigned. Serves as attorney advisor for court operations, specifically on the development of court rules, forms and standards throughout the Judicial Branch; focuses on development of case management policies and procedures to effectively provide excellent services to court customers; performs analysis and assessment of court operations and case management process; develops procedures and policies to ensure consistent. Open Until Filled.

Staff Attorney. Aneth, UT, Chinle, AZ, Kayenta, AZ. Under general direction of the Judges of the assigned district, performs work of considerable difficulty in providing complex legal advice and guidance; conducts legal research and drafts legal documents in support of the judges, court solicitor and court administrators; undertakes special projects for the Judicial Branch; performs related duties as assigned. Open Until Filled.

Associate Justice. Window Rock, AZ. Under administrative direction of the Chief Justice, performs work of unusual difficulty, hears arguments, reads briefs and conducts research necessary to pass judgment and issue rulings on cases brought before the Navajo Nation Supreme Court; may serve as acting Chief Justice; performs related duties as assigned. Open Until Filled.

District Court Judges. Navajo Nation Wide. Under administrative direction of the Chief Justice, performs work of unusual difficulty in presiding over civil, criminal and family court cases; provides policy direction and guidance in the operation of Judicial Districts; performs related duties as assigned. Open Until Filled.

The Hopi Tribe

Deputy General Counsel. Kykotsmovi AZ. This is a tribal inhouse counsel position for the Hopi Tribe.  The position processes requests for legal review by the Tribal Council and the Tribe’s Officers, Departments and Programs.  These requests can range from contract review to answering and analyzing complex questions of law dealing with natural resources to human resources. Closing Date – Open until filled.

Prosecutor. Keam Canyon, Arizona. The Chief Prosecutor administers the Hopi Tribe’s Office of the Tribal Prosecutor.  He or she is responsible for the prosecution of violations of the Hopi tribal code and pursues dependency matters pursuant to the Hopi Children’s’ Code.  This position works (and coordinates) with Hopi and BIA law enforcement, the FBI and US attorney’s office.  The position also works with the Tribal Council in reviewing the Code and law enforcement matters on the Hopi Reservation.  Importantly, the position prosecutes cases before the Hopi Tribal Courts. Closing Date – Open until filled.

Deputy Tribal Prosecutor.  Keam Canyon, AZ. The Deputy is responsible for the prosecution of violations of the Hopi tribal code and pursues dependency matters pursuant to the Hopi Children’s’ Code.  .  This position works (and coordinates) with Hopi and BIA law enforcement, the FBI and US attorney’s office.  The position also works with the Tribal Council in reviewing the Code and law enforcement matters on the Hopi Reservation.  Importantly, the position prosecutes cases before the Hopi Tribal Courts. Closing Date – Open until filled.

Hopi Board of Education

Banking Services for Hopi School System. Hopi Reservation, Kykotsmovi, AZ. The Hopi Board of Education is soliciting proposals from full service banking institutions for banking services to serve as the primary depository for the Hopi School System.  The Hopi School System is a unified school district of seven Tribally Controlled Schools on the Hopi Reservation with an average annual budget of $30,000,000. Closing date:  April 20, 2023, 5:00 p.m. (MST).

Elk River Law Office, PLLP

Associate Attorney. Billings, Montana. Provide legal services to new and existing clients. Applicants with three years of experience in civil legal work, including Federal Indian law is preferred. Judicial clerk experience will be considered. All applicants must have a Montana bar license and have strong research and writing skills. Competitive salary based upon experience. The position is open until filled.

National Congress of American Indians 

NCAI Policy Lead. Washington, DC. Under the direction of the NCAI’s Director of Policy & Legal and/or Designee carrying out the primary duties of the Policy Lead, include but are not limited to: Leading NCAI’s work with leaders, NCAI staff, and partners to develop and drive a national, consensus-based Indian Country policy agenda that supports and advances the portfolio area(s) assigned to the Policy Lead. Developing and maintaining relationships with Congressional and Administration contacts that are necessary to further the overall mission and responsibilities of NCAI and Indian Country’s national policy agenda in the portfolio area(s) assigned to the Policy Lead, including interaction with federal partners, national and regional organization partners, constituent inquiries, and correspondence. Developing and maintaining close working relationships with NCAI’s coalition partners to facilitate the advancement of Indian Country’s national policy agenda in the portfolio area(s) assigned to the Policy Lead. Closing Date: Open until filled. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning in early April.

NCAI Policy Associate. Washington, DC. Under the direction of the NCAI’s Director of Policy & Legal and/or Designee carrying out the primary duties of the Policy Associate include but are not limited to: Advancing NCAI’s work with tribal leaders, NCAI staff, and partners to develop and drive a national Indian Country policy agenda that supports and advances a broad, consensus-based approach to developing and advocating for priorities. Supporting Policy Director, Manager(s), and Lead(s) to help build and maintain relationships with Congressional and Administration contacts to further the overall mission and responsibilities of NCAI and Indian Country’s national policy agenda, including interaction with federal partners, national and regional organization partners, constituent inquiries, and correspondence. Closing Date: Open until filled. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning in early April.

Harvard Law School

Senior Staff Attorney. Cambridge, MA. EELP is seeking a Senior Staff Attorney (5+ years post-graduate experience) to develop legal and policy research on climate change and clean energy policy. The senior staff attorney will engage with private and public sector actors on federal and state climate rulemakings and convene diverse stakeholders and experts to develop legal analysis and policy proposals. Open until filled.

Staff Attorney. Cambridge, MA. EELP is seeking a Staff Attorney (3+ years post-graduate experience) to develop legal and policy research on climate change and clean energy policy. The staff attorney will engage with private and public sector actors on federal and state climate rulemakings and support the team’s convening of diverse stakeholders and experts to develop legal analysis and policy proposals. Open until filled.

Department of the Interior, Bureau Of Indian Affairs

Legal Fellow. Office of the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, Department of the Interior. Analyze Indian policy, legal and regulatory issues, address public requests, provide support for the AS-IA policy team in meetings with Tribes, federal agencies, external entities, and congressional engagement activities, as well as support Tribal consultations. May include limited travel. Unpaid position. Closing-date: 04/21/2023. Send a resume and writing-sample to: joaquin.gallegos@indianaffairs.gov.

Regional Director-Alaska, BIA, Department of the Interior. Anchorage, AK. Represents the Bureau on behalf of the Secretary, oversees the application and implementation of overall policies and programs at the region, agency, and field offices, provides technical advice and review, evaluates performance, and recommends revisions of policies, programs, procedures, and regulations. Closing Date: 04/24/2023.

Oglala Lakota Housing Authority

Court Clerk. Pine Ridge, SD. Performs various routine duties, including but not limited to: utilizes standard office equipment, taking and transmitting messages, maintaining databases and a variety of records, data entry and processing documents. Review legal documents for accuracy and completeness. Maintain calendars of hearings, trials, issuance of summons and subpoenas. Work with OLHA staff to ensure respondents are provided adequate notice of complaints and hearings. Attend scheduled hearings. Mark and maintaining exhibits. Recording court proceedings. Respond to complex inquiries from judges, attorneys, and the public. Issues orders and judgments. Calls court to order in the absence of the Bailiff; administering oath and processing of documents. Perform other duties as assigned. Open until filled.

Isleta Pueblo

Judge. Isleta Pueblo, NM. Works with the Chief Judge in achieving the Tribal Court’s goals and objectives by adjudicating all criminal and civil cases brought before the Isleta Tribal Court in accordance with the legal code of the Pueblo of Isleta.  Manages and oversees all Tribal Court staff. Closing Date: 04/07/2023.

San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

Director, Revenue Management- Hotel. Highland, CA. Under the general direction of the Vice President of Hotel Operations, the Director of Revenue Management is responsible for the development and implementation of revenue management strategies and processes in all client hotels in order for optimization and maximization of its revenues. The Director of Revenue Management identifies new revenue opportunities, provides daily, weekly and monthly reporting, optimizes and expands distribution partnerships, and acts as overall business development partner for the Office of the General Manager. Additionally, the Director of Revenue Management actively participates in the Revenue Management Committee and champions a revenue management culture.  Closing date: Open until filled.

Staff Attorney – Government. Highland, CA. Under the direction of the VP Associate General Counsel, the Staff Attorney provides legal advice to the Tribal government, Tribal government operations and the Tribal government’s business enterprises. This position assists in counseling all levels of leadership in diverse issues related to transactions and contracting for the Tribal government, Tribal government operations and the Tribal government’s business enterprises. The Staff Attorney provides recommendations to minimize legal and financial exposure. This position also assures best practices to address emerging legal and business issues related to the Tribal government, Tribal government operations and the Tribal government’s business enterprises. Closing date: Open until filled.

Staff Attorney – DEER. Highland, CA. Under the direction of the Managing Attorney, the Staff Attorney – DEER (Development, Environmental, Entitlements, and Real Estate) provides counsel to all levels of leadership on diverse issues related to government and business operations, contracting, land use entitlement, energy, environmental, health and safety matters, real estate development, management, and acquisition. This role utilizes best practices in providing legal advice to the Tribe and in addressing emerging legal and business issues related to the Tribe and it’s enterprises. The Staff Attorney – DEER provides recommendations on attaining enterprise goals while minimizing legal and financial exposure. Closing date: Open until filled.

Click here for last week’s job announcements!

Friday Job Announcements

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

  • Position title
  • Location (city, state)
  • Main duties
  • Closing date
  • Any other pertinent details, such as a link to the application
  • An attached PDF job announcement or link to the position description

House Natural Resources Committee

Staff Director for Indian Affairs. Washington D.C. The SD will work directly with the Counsel’s Office and Director of Legislative Operations to advance tribal legislation, prepare for Committee meetings, and create legislative memos and reference materials for staff and Members of Congress. The SD also supervises legislative employees, including interviewing, training, assigning work, and appraising performance. Closing Date: COB Monday, May 1, 2023.

Navajo Nation

Court Solicitor. Window Rock, AZ. Serves as attorney advisor for court operations, specifically on the development of court rules, forms and standards throughout the Judicial Branch; focuses on development of case management policies and procedures to effectively provide excellent services to court customers; performs analysis and assessment of court operations and case management process; develops procedures and policies to ensure consistent, best practices in the courts; prepares and transmits to the Judicial Conference and the Supreme Court statistical data and reports regarding case management and court operations; serves as the court attorney advisor in conjunction with staff attorneys to provide legal counsel and advice; develops processes for the public and Judicial Branch employees to raise complaints about court processes, court staff and judges; advances objectives to accomplish Administrative Offices of the Courts and judiciary-wide goals and objectives. Open until filled.

Associate Justice. Window Rock, AZ. Under administrative direction of the Chief Justice, performs work of unusual difficulty, hears arguments, reads briefs and conducts research necessary to pass judgment and issue rulings on cases brought before the Navajo Nation Supreme Court; may serve as acting Chief Justice; performs related duties as assigned. Open until filled.

Judicial Hearing Officer. Window Rock, AZ AND Shiprock, NM. Under the administrative supervision of the Chief Justice or his/her designee, this position exercises authority to preside over hearings and dispositions involving the Domestic Abuse Protection Act and Alchinni Bi Beehazannii Act occurring within the respective jurisdictions of the District Courts of the Navajo Nation; performs related work as assigned. Open until filled.

Staff Attorney. Aneth, UT AND Chinle, AZ AND Kayenta, AZ. Under general direction of the Judges of the assigned district, performs work of considerable difficulty in providing complex legal advice and guidance; conducts legal research and drafts legal documents in support of the judges, court solicitor and court administrators; undertakes special projects for the Judicial Branch; performs related duties as assigned. Open until filled.

District Court Judges. Navajo Nation Wide. Under administrative direction of the Chief Justice, performs work of unusual difficulty in presiding over civil, criminal and family court cases; provides policy direction and guidance in the operation of Judicial Districts; performs related duties as assigned. Open until filled.

Traditional Program Specialist. Crownpoint, NM AND Kayenta, AZ. Provide administrative support, recruit, orientate, train and mentor peacemakers;  Recommend and guide individuals and families with follow-up services;  Provide guidance in traditional Navajo healing approaches incorporating both Western, faith-based and Navajo traditional philosophies;  Implement the Peacemaking Program’s traditional curriculum to provide services to youth, adults, families to restore harmony;  Attend trainings and conferences pursuant to established training plans;  Randomly monitor and promote the effectiveness and efficiency of peacemakers;  Assist with written agreements and narratives;  Interview individuals to obtain and verify required case documents and other information;  Performs intake process for individuals or as ordered by the court;  Completes and/or serves notice of peacemaking sessions;  Maintains case management of case files, implements, updates and distributes progress reports;  Enters and retrieves case information using automated database or manual logs;  Schedules peacemaking sessions and records events as they occur;  Shall maintain confidentiality in regards to client information and records at all times.  Provide complex traditional cultural knowledge and teaching of fundamental law. Open until filled.

Environmental Law Institute

Director – Climate Judiciary Project. Washington D.C.  The Environmental Law Institute seeks a dynamic Director to lead its groundbreaking Climate Judiciary Project to educate judges on the science and impacts of climate change.  The Project enjoys widespread support of judges throughout the nation as well as the scientific, legal-scholarly, and philanthropic communities.  Application Deadline: 4/24/23.

Pueblo of Laguna

In-House Attorney. Laguna, NM. Full-time attorney to provide legal advice, draft codes and policies, and protect government interests performing general counsel legal work.  One of three In-house attorneys and works with Pueblo officials and management under supervision of Government Affairs Director.  Mostly transactional with some litigation.  Compensation DOE, open until filled. 

Public Defender. Laguna, NM. Full-time attorney to represent and advocate for adults in criminal cases and juveniles in delinquency cases before Laguna Pueblo Court when accused of violating Pueblo of Laguna law.  Advocates for Pueblo community members to achieve justice and rehabilitation.  One of two legal positions in Community Legal Services division and shares full-time assistant the Pueblo’s legal aid attorney, works under supervision of Government Affairs Director.  Compensation DOE, open until filled.  

Prosecutor. Laguna, NM. Full-time attorney to prosecute adult criminal defendants and juveniles in Laguna Pueblo Court for violating Laguna Pueblo law.  Advocates for the Pueblo to achieve justice and rehabilitation.  Works in office having a full-time assistant and victim’s advocate, and is under supervision of the Pueblo Governor.  Compensation DOE, open until filled. 

National Judicial College

Director. Reno, NV. The National Judicial College is seeking a collaborative and experienced leader to fulfill the position of Director of the National Tribal Judicial Center (NTJC). Under the direct supervision of the Chief Academic Officer, the Director of the NTJC is responsible for managing the education offerings and initiatives of the NTJC.  This position is responsible for ensuring that the financial goals for which you have direct oversight, as enumerated in the annual budget and approved by the board, are met each year. Open until filled.

Secretary Indian Water Rights Office

Program Analyst. Washington, D.C.  This position serves in the Secretary’s Indian Water Rights Office, Department of the Interior.  Responsibilities include: providing liaison services to water rights settlement implementation and negotiation teams nation-wide; briefing policy-level leaders within the Department; facilitating meetings focused on negotiations with various parties to settlements including Tribes, States, and other governmental and non-governmental organizations; conducting research and analyses on issues related to Indian water right and related legal and policy matters; and other duties as more fully described in the job posting.  This is a unique opportunity to work exclusively on water rights settlements nation-wide.  Law school graduates with a strong interest in water rights settlements are encouraged to apply.  The application for this position is open until April 6, 2023.

Puyallup Tribe of Indians

Assistant Prosecutor/Presenting Officer. Tacoma, WA. Responsible for planning, organizing, and directing assigned activities of the Prosecutor’s Office and serves as the Assistant Prosecutor/Presenting Officer for the Tribe. Closing Date: April 7, 2023.

Makah Tribe

Chief of Police. Neah Bay, WA. The Chief of Police is responsible for the direction of all operations of Neah Bay Public Safety. The Chief of Police will lead, plan, organize and direct the overall activities of Neah Bay Public Safety; and establish departmental goals and objectives while delivering efficient and effective public safety services to the community. Overall, responsible for the efficient and effective management of patrol, enforcement, investigation, adult probation, emergency medical services, fire protection and emergency management for optimum service to the Makah Tribe. Closing date: April 14, 2023.

Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Court

Judicial Clerk (2023 to end of July 2024). Mashantucket, CT. The ideal candidate is a law school student on target to obtain their J.D. before the opening date.  Bar membership is not required for this clerkship.  Duties include attendance at court proceedings, research and analysis of legal issues, drafting of orders and memoranda of decision, and other projects as assigned by the Judges. Deadline to apply is March 31, 2023 at 4:00 p.m.

Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians

RFP – Travel Agency Services. Dowagiac, MI. The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians is interested in securing the highest quality of corporate travel services through an intuitive and advanced travel booking and management software platform to assist it with maximizing service convince for its travelers, while minimizing travel cost and accurately tracking its travel expenditure patterns. To this end, the Pokagon Band is requesting proposals from travel agencies that can demonstrate knowledge of Federal travel regulations; be able to charge costs to multiple internal departments; and generate invoices and reports outlining costs by category. Furthermore, the Pokagon Band is seeking a travel agency that will honestly put forth its best effort in resolving any travel-related problems or emergencies that may arise while traveling, and an agency that can demonstrate the achievement of cost savings for clients in comparable size and complexity. Open until filled.

Fredrikson & Byron

Real Estate Staff Attorney. Minneapolis, MN. Fredrikson is seeking a staff attorney with wide-ranging transactional real estate experience to join our Real Estate Department. The staff attorney role is intended for an individual with outstanding legal skills who is seeking more predictable working hours and a role without client-marketing or new business generation expectations. The ideal candidate will have related experience including: preparing lease documents and documents for purchase and sale transactions; reviewing title and survey for sale and purchase transactions and for financing transactions; preparing documents to cure title defects; closing real estate sale and purchase and financing transactions; interfacing and negotiating with clients, other attorneys, and title companies; drafting conveyance and other standard real estate documents, such as easements; and managing due diligence for sale and purchase, finance, and lease transactions; preparing mechanic’s lien statements; and managing various types of Torrens proceedings. We are seeking professional individuals with at least five years of real estate legal experience. Outstanding candidates with less experience will be considered. Open until filled.

Indian Law Resource Center

Development Director. Helena MT. The Indian Law Resource Center, an American Indian non-profit organization providing legal assistance to indigenous peoples in the United States and throughout the Americas, is seeking a Development Director with at least six years of experience to develop and carry out our annual fundraising strategy; write, submit and track grant applications and reports; and manage relationships with individual, foundation and government funders, prospects and Center project directors. Open until filled.

New Mexico Legal Aid, Inc

Managing Attorney – Native American Program. Santa Ana Pueblo, NM. For this position, the Managing Attorney is responsible for overseeing the Native American Program including: The provisions of legal services. Supervising staff attorneys, paralegals, and other staff and volunteers. Performing administrative duties, and working in close collaboration with other members of NMLA’s management team. Organizing and participating in community education and outreach activities to the various Pueblo communities. Collaborating with tribal agencies and organizations. Being active in local bar and community activities. March 31, 2023 or until filled.

Tulalip Tribes

Attorney – Child Support. Tulalip, WA. Drafts and reviews various legal pleadings, motions, documents and correspondence necessary to litigate child support cases and meet all applicable time frames and deadlines. Represents the Tulalip Tribes in civil proceedings regarding the Tulalip Child Support Program. Provides legal advice and support to Tulalip Child Support Program staff members. Reviews child support recommendations and worksheets prepared by the Tulalip Child Support  Program. Works cooperatively with Tulalip Child Support Program to ensure timely flow of cases. Drafts and revises Tribal Codes, procedures, templates, and forms. Conducts legal research concerning Tribal, Federal, and State Law. Participates in planning, legal advice and strategy sessions with the Board of Directors and government departments. Open until filled.

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Friday Job Announcements

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

  • Position title
  • Location (city, state)
  • Main duties
  • Closing date
  • Any other pertinent details, such as a link to the application
  • An attached PDF job announcement or link to the position description

The Hopi Tribe

Deputy General Counsel. Kykotsmovi, AZ. This is a tribal inhouse counsel position for the Hopi Tribe.  The position processes requests for legal review by the Tribal Council and the Tribe’s Officers, Departments and Programs.  These requests can range from contract review to answering and analyzing complex questions of law dealing with natural resources to human resources.  Closing Date – Open until filled.

Chief Prosecutor. Keam Canyon, AZ. The Chief Prosecutor administers the Hopi Tribe’s Office of the Tribal Prosecutor.  He or she is responsible for the prosecution of violations of the Hopi tribal code and pursues dependency matters pursuant to the Hopi Children’s’ Code.  This position works (and coordinates) with Hopi and BIA law enforcement, the FBI and US attorney’s office.  The position also works with the Tribal Council in reviewing the Code and law enforcement matters on the Hopi Reservation.  Importantly, the position prosecutes cases before the Hopi Tribal Courts. Closing Date – Open until filled.

Deputy Tribal Prosecutor. Keam Canyon, AZ. The Deputy is responsible for the prosecution of violations of the Hopi tribal code and pursues dependency matters pursuant to the Hopi Children’s’ Code.  .  This position works (and coordinates) with Hopi and BIA law enforcement, the FBI and US attorney’s office.  The position also works with the Tribal Council in reviewing the Code and law enforcement matters on the Hopi Reservation.  Importantly, the position prosecutes cases before the Hopi Tribal Courts. Closing Date – Open until filled.

Tulalip Tribes

Attorney – Child Welfare. Tulalip, WA. Provides effective consultation and legal advice to Tribal government, including its governing body the Tulalip Tribal Board of Directors, departments, programs, and committees of Tribal governments. Appears in tribal court and state court on behalf of Tulalip Tribes. Provides orientation and training, who is Tulalip’s child welfare team and the tribal council on the application of Title 4.05 Juvenile and Family Code. Represents the Tribe in civil and administrative proceedings. Provides legal representation to the Tribe in intergovernmental relations with federal and state agencies on child welfare issues and related matters. Drafts and revises Tribal Codes. Reviews policies and agreements. Conducts legal research concerning Tribal, Federal, and State Law. Participates in planning and strategy sessions with the Board of Directors and government departments. Represents the Tulalip Tribes child welfare department in Court. Closing Date: April 7, 2023.

Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska

Child Welfare Attorney. Juneau, AK. Providing civil legal representation on child welfare cases and issues. Primary responsibility is to advise the Tribal Family & Youth Services department staff regarding application of the ICWA and other state and federal legislation that impacts Tribal families. Closing date: Open until filled.

Table Mountain Rancheria

Legal Counsel. Friant, CA. Serves as In-House Legal Counsel for Table Mountain Rancheria and its various enterprises. Capable of providing expert advise in Federal Indian Law and the Federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. Performs other duties assigned. Open until filled.

Department of the Interior, Office of the Solicitor, Southwest Region

Attorney-Adviser. Albuquerque, NM. The incumbent will provide legal support primarily to the Bureau of Reclamation, as well as to other bureaus within the Department of the Interior. The incumbent will provide oral and written legal advice and counsel, will be responsible for administrative litigation, and will assist the Department of Justice on judicial litigation on a variety of matters. The incumbent will focus on water rights matters, water quality regulation, the Reclamation Act, Indian water rights, realty and land title, the National Environmental Policy Act, the National Historic Preservation Act, the Endangered Species Act, and other federal and state laws. The incumbent should have a strong background in federal Indian law. The incumbent may also provide legal support on matters involving general law such as contracts, cooperative agreements, and FOIA; and other matters as assigned. Closing date: March 22, 2023.

Yurok Tribe

Legal Interns for Summer 2023. Klamath, CA or Remote. The Yurok Tribe has the largest membership base of all California tribes, and we are dedicated to protecting our natural resources and way of life. As an intern with Yurok Office of the Tribal Attorney (OTA), you will gain experience working directly with Tribal leadership in areas of environmental law, gaming law, policy development, appellate briefing, and more. Law clerks are a part of our community, and they are invited to cultural events and in-the-field experiences throughout their internship. Applications are currently being accepted on a rolling basis. Positions are open until filled.

University of California Los Angelas

Clinical Supervising Attorney &  Project Director for the Emmett Institute. Los Angeles, CA. The responsibilities of the director include contributing to legislative policy-oriented service and teaching programs and projects as well as the Institute’s research programs, working both within and outside the California Environmental Legislation and Policy Clinic. The attorney will manage legal and legislative policy work and supervise students in the California Environmental Legislation and Policy Clinic and other experiential learning contexts; develop and implement strategic research; supervise interns and volunteers; and perform other tasks in support of the Emmett Institute and the Legislation Clinic, as necessary. Applications will be accepted until March 30th.

The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi

Associate Justice. Fulton, MI. The Tribal Council is soliciting letters of interest from qualified individuals interested in being appointed to serve as Associate Justice Pro Tempore on the NHBP Supreme Court. The individual appointed to this position would be appointed to a six-year term of office expiring on April 31, 2025. Letters of interest must be submitted no later than April 7, 2023 to be considered.

The Office of Tribal Justice, U.S. Department of Justice

Attorney Advisors. Washington, DC. Provide advice on significant tribal justice matters and assist in policy and legislative development and review. Provide advice to OTJ leadership on Department components litigating, protecting or otherwise addressing Native American rights and/or related issues. Review proposed legal actions submitted by divisions that require OTJ approval or coordination. Perform legal research on assigned questions or law or policy and prepare reports and memoranda. Assist in coordinating with attorneys and officials of the Department, other government agencies, and interested parties to provide guidance and advice to ensure compliance with statutory, regulatory and policy requirements. Assist in maintaining liaison with federally recognized tribes, and work with the appropriate federal, tribal, state, and local officials, professional associations, and public interest groups. Develop, coordinate and execute special projects as assigned by the Director or the Deputy Director.  Application deadline: March 31, 2023.

Fredrikson & Byron

Energy Regulatory Associate. Minneapolis, MN. We are seeking an Energy Regulatory Associate to join our Energy Department in our Minneapolis office.  This associate will assist with research, drafting memos, motion practice, and due diligence on environmental matters in renewable energy, electric power, transmission, pipeline, advanced biofuels and emerging technology energy sectors.  The firm’s Energy department is seeking an associate who is interested in and committed to growing an energy regulatory practice. Open until filled.

Environmental Associate. Minneapolis, MN. We are seeking an associate with 1-5 years of experience to support our growing environmental practice. This associate will assist with research relating to environmental compliance and enforcement matters; drafting environmental provisions in purchase agreements, contracts, and leases; and the management due diligence on environmental matters in M&A and real property transactions for a wide array of commercial, real estate, industrial, and energy-sector clients. Preferred candidates will have environmental transactional experience and substantive familiarity with state and federal environmental laws. Open until filled.

Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP

Rodney B. Lewis Resident – American Indian Law and Policy. Washington D.C.

Under the general supervision and direction of assigned attorney(s), advisor(s) or practice management, and following prescribed department, office and firm procedures, the Rodney B. Lewis Resident assists with projects for the Public Law and Policy practice and the American Indian Law and Policy practice. The American Indian Law and Policy practice provides legal and strategic advice to American Indian tribal governments and other entities that share a commitment to tribal political empowerment, sovereignty and economic development. Our lawyers and consultants design legal strategies, defend tribal rights and formulate public policy recommendations that make it possible for our tribal clients to accomplish their business, legal and political goals. Closing date: May 1, 2023.

Pechanga Band of Indians

Deputy General Counsel. Temecula, CA. The Deputy General Counsel works under the direct supervision of the General Counsel.  The role of Deputy General Counsel provides legal opinions and assistance to the Tribal Council, all departments of the Pechanga Tribal Government, Gaming Commission and Pechanga Development Corporation; oversee work of outside counsel; and limited service to tribal members in matters relating to tribal status.  The Deputy General Counsel provides a broad range of legal services in all aspects of American Indian law, to include but not limited to; employment law, Intellectual Property, Land Use, Indian Child Welfare Act, gaming law, contracts and litigation. Open until filled.

California Tribal Families Coalition

Post-Graduate Legal Fellowship. Sacramento, CA/REMOTE. California Tribal Families Coalition is honored to offer the inaugural San Manuel Tribal Advocacy Fellowship – a new post-graduation position for law students who have lived experience in tribal communities and a demonstrated interest in federal Indian/tribal law or child welfare. The Fellowship is a one-year position and will provide a competitive salary, student loan forgiveness as needed, and mentoring and training in Indian law, specifically in Indian child welfare work. Applicants must be willing to take the California Bar Exam and commit to the one-year position beginning in or around August 2023. Apply by sending a resume, cover letter, 2 letters of recommendation, law school transcripts, writing sample, and short answers to the following prompts: 1) Please describe your interest and experience related to tribal communities; 2) Please describe your interest and experience related to child welfare. The deadline for applications is 11:59 PM Pacific on April 10, 2023.

RWE Offshore Wind GmbH

Tribal Relations Manager. San Francisco, Sacramento or a city in Humboldt County. Lead efforts to ensure timely response and consistency in Tribal Nation outreach and engagement as the key point of contact for all inquiries for Tribal Nations with an interest in RWE US Offshore projects in the State of California Develop relationships and build RWE’s network with regional, and national, Tribal-related organizations to strengthen RWE’s understanding of Tribal matters and seek opportunities for collaboration to enhance RWE’s work with Tribal Nations Work with team members and consultants to develop, implement, and maintain an annual project-specific Tribal Nation Engagement and Communication Plans Work in conjunction with the RWE US Offshore Development, Government Relations, and Communication teams to prepare, deliver and/or arrange for RWE presentations, and information exchanges with Tribal Nations and organizations Represent RWE at outreach events, including Tribal-related activities, and local, regional and national-level meetings. Open until filled.

Viejas Casino and Resort

Assistant Attorney General. Alpine, CA. The Assistant Attorney General will work in the Office of the Attorney General under the direct supervision of the Attorney General for the Viejas Band. The Assistant Attorney General will work with the Attorney General and Deputy Attorneys General to render legal services to the Viejas Band, including its government departments, enterprises, and elected officials.  Competitive salary depending on experience and comprehensive benefits. Open until filled.

Native Nation Partnerships

Staff Attorney. Madison, WI. Midwest Environmental Advocates (MEA) is hiring a Staff Attorney for Native Nation Partnerships to focus on providing environmental legal support to Native nations and other Indigenous partners within Wisconsin’s borders. The attorney’s work will be guided by the needs and requests of these partners. The attorney will assist Native nations to obtain recognition of their environmental standards by the Environmental Protection Agency and other non-Native governments. The positions will also provide legal support to Native nations when state and federal government agency decisions implicate Tribal environmental sovereignty or other environmental interests. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Forest County Potawatomi Government

Human Resources Director. Crandon, WI. Leads and manages a team of professionals to plan, design and initiate programs in the areas of talent acquisition, talent development, total rewards, HRIS, employee relations, Tribal member recruitment, policy implementation, and investigations. Prepares, reviews, interprets, and analyzes data that supports the creation and execution of the department master strategic plan, including but not limited to short and long-term goals, employee engagement, budgets and grant funding, key performance indicators, and other measurable outcomes. Enforces the Forest County Potawatomi preference system in all hiring, training, and decisions. Closing date: April 17, 2023.

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. Open until filled.

Yakama Nation

Assistant Tribal Prosecutor. Toppenish, WA. The Assistant Tribal Prosecutor provides professional legal prosecutorial work for the Yakama Nation to defend the Treaty of June 9, 1855 and the sovereignty of the Yakama Nation. Provides attorney services in tribal, state and federal courts for the Yakama Nation. Represents the Yakama Nation in criminal prosecutions, civil matters including the Indian Child Welfare Act and dependency matters, may serve as legal advisor to law enforcement. Coordinates with police jurisdictions and other agencies to ensure prosecution activities to serve the interests of the Yakama Nation in protecting the safety of the community. Maintains contact with attorneys and other jurisdictions regarding tribal, state, and federal court matters affecting the Yakama Nation. Closing date: March 30, 2023.

Montana Legal Services Association

Eviction Prevention Intake Specialist. Helena or Billings MT. Offers support, advocacy, information and referrals to families and individuals facing eviction, or with housing issues. This position will serve as the first point of contact for MLSA clients with housing issues. The Eviction Prevention Intake Specialist works with the MT Eviction Intervention Program Team to conduct client intakes and offer holistic, client-based support to prevent eviction and enhance the housing stability of MLSA clients. Open until filled.

Staff Attorney for Family Violence Survivors. Red Lodge or Livingston, MT. The position will provide poverty law services to domestic violence victims throughout the state of Montana, concentrating their work in Carbon, Stillwater, Sweet Grass, Park and Meagher counties. Poverty law services will primarily be in the area of family law and orders of protection, although other areas of law, such as housing, public benefits and consumer, will be addressed as appropriate to the client. Open until filled.

Keweenaw Bay Indian Community

Tribal Attorney. Baraga, MI. General knowledge of law with emphasis on applicable current case law, statutes and regulations relating to Indian tribes. Knowledge of and experience with the operation of court systems. Individuals with experience in Indian law and litigation desired. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Must work effectively with other people at a variety of ages and levels. Competency in various computer programs. Able to work independently to get a project completed. Open until filled.

Click here for last week’s job announcements!

Friday Job Announcements

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

  • Position title
  • Location (city, state)
  • Main duties
  • Closing date
  • Any other pertinent details, such as a link to the application
  • An attached PDF job announcement or link to the position description

The Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California

Chief Judge. Gardnerville, NV. The Chief Judge of the Tribal Court shall have the duty and power to conduct court proceedings, and issue all orders and papers incident thereto, in order to administer justice in all matters within the jurisdiction of the Tribal Court. If interested we ask that you submit a letter of intent, resume, copies of certifications, and other relevant documentation supporting your intent to become the Washoe Tribe’s Chief Judge. Letters of intent must be received (not postmarked) no later than 4:00 pm (PST) on Wednesday March 10, 2023.

Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation

Assistant General Counsel. El Cajon, CA. Serves as Assistant or Deputy legal representative to the Sycuan General Counsel, and as an advisor to the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation. Closing Date: Open Until Filled.

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians

Tribal Prosecutor II – Office of the Attorney General. Cherokee, NC. Prosecutes criminal and juvenile charges in Cherokee Court. Provides assistance and advice to investigators in the field at crime scenes and during investigations. Assists in training Cherokee Police Department in the investigation techniques and the development of criminal cases for successful prosecution. Engage in quality control measures to ensure criminal justice system is operating for successful prosecutions. Prosecutes criminal cases in Federal Court as a Special Assistant United States Attorney (SAUSA). Communicates and coordinates assistance on a regular basis with Federal and state officials who have concurrent jurisdiction over criminal and juvenile matters on Cherokee land. Closing date: Application is open until filled.

Office of Tribal Justice

Attorney. Washington, DC. As an Attorney Advisor GS-0905-13/14/15, your typical work assignments may include the following: Provide advice on significant tribal justice matters and assist in policy and legislative development and review. Provide advice to OTJ leadership on Department components litigating, protecting or otherwise addressing Native American rights and/or related issues. Review proposed legal actions submitted by divisions that require OTJ approval or coordination. Perform legal research on assigned questions or law or policy and prepare reports and memoranda. Assist in coordinating with attorneys and officials of the Department, other government agencies, and interested parties to provide guidance and advice to ensure compliance with statutory, regulatory and policy requirements. Assist in maintaining liaison with federally recognized tribes, and work with the appropriate federal, tribal, state, and local officials, professional associations, and public interest groups. Develop, coordinate and execute special projects as assigned by the Director or the Deputy Director. Closing date: March 17, 2023.

The Hopi Tribe

Deputy General Counsel. Kykotsmovi AZ. This is a tribal inhouse counsel position for the Hopi Tribe.  The position processes requests for legal review by the Tribal Council and the Tribe’s Officers, Departments and Programs.  These requests can range from contract review to answering and analyzing complex questions of law dealing with natural resources to human resources. Closing Date – Open until filled

Chief Prosecutor. Keam Canyon, AZ. The Chief Prosecutor administers the Hopi Tribe’s Office of the Tribal Prosecutor.  He or she is responsible for the prosecution of violations of the Hopi tribal code and pursues dependency matters pursuant to the Hopi Children’s’ Code.  This position works (and coordinates) with Hopi and BIA law enforcement, the FBI and US attorney’s office.  The position also works with the Tribal Council in reviewing the Code and law enforcement matters on the Hopi Reservation.  Importantly, the position prosecutes cases before the Hopi Tribal Courts. Closing Date – Open until filled.

Deputy Tribal Prosecutor. Keam Canyon, AZ. The Deputy is responsible for the prosecution of violations of the Hopi tribal code and pursues dependency matters pursuant to the Hopi Children’s’ Code. This position works (and coordinates) with Hopi and BIA law enforcement, the FBI and US attorney’s office.  The position also works with the Tribal Council in reviewing the Code and law enforcement matters on the Hopi Reservation.  Importantly, the position prosecutes cases before the Hopi Tribal Courts. Closing Date – Open until filled.

Pueblo of Pojoaque

General Counselv. Santa Fe, NM. Provide professional legal counsel in the areas of tribal government, federal-tribal relations, jurisdiction issues, environmental and natural resources law and policy, economic development, tribal business enterprise, and employment issues. Works to protect tribal assets and preserve tribal sovereignty. Closing date – Until Filled.

University of Minnesota

Department of Social Work – Assistant or Associate Professor for MSW and BSW Programs. Duluth, MN. Beginning August 21, 2023. Individuals who hold underrepresented and/or marginalized identities, especially American Indian and other Indigenous people, are strongly encouraged to apply. Job duties and responsibilities for this full time, tenure track position include teaching courses in a variety of areas in both BSW and MSW programs; advising students; conducting and publishing scholarly research; providing professional, community and university service; and mentoring and supervising students in social work field placements.

The Navajo Nation

District Court Judges. Navajo Nation Wide. Under administrative direction of the Chief Justice, performs work of unusual difficulty in presiding over civil, criminal and family court cases; provides policy direction and guidance in the operation of Judicial Districts; performs related duties as assigned. Open Until Filled.

Associate Justice. Window Rock, AZ. Under administrative direction of the Chief Justice, performs work of unusual difficulty, hears arguments, reads briefs and conducts research necessary to pass judgment and issue rulings on cases brought before the Navajo Nation Supreme Court; may serve as acting Chief Justice; performs related duties as assigned. Open Until Filled.

Judicial Hearing Officer. Window Rock, AZ. Shiprock, NM. Under the administrative supervision of the Chief Justice or his/her designee, this position exercises authority to preside over hearings and dispositions involving the Domestic Abuse Protection Act and Alchinni Bi Beehazannii Act occurring within the respective jurisdictions of the District Courts of the Navajo Nation; performs related work as assigned. Open Until Filled.

Supreme Court Law Clerk. Window Rock, AZ. Under general direction of the Chief Justice, performs work of moderate to extreme difficulty in analyzing supreme court cases. Conducts legal research, drafts opinions, and orders; and, provides legal advice related to appellate cases, petitions, notices and other documents filed with the Navajo Nation Supreme Court. Performs related duties as assigned. March 13, 2023.

Staff Attorney. Aneth, UT, Chinle, AZ, Kayenta, AZ. Under general direction of the Judges of the assigned district, performs work of considerable difficulty in providing complex legal advice and guidance; conducts legal research and drafts legal documents in support of the judges, court solicitor and court administrators; undertakes special projects for the Judicial Branch; performs related duties as assigned. Open Until Filled.

Request for Proposal – Special Counsel on Housing. Window Rock, AZ. Assist the Navajo Nation Office of the President and Vice President in housing   development strategy on Navajo Nation. Closing Date: March 17, 2023

Hobbs, Straus, Dean & Walker, LLP

Paralegal. Washington, DC.  Hobbs, Straus, Dean & Walker, LLP is seeking an experienced paralegal for its Washington, DC office.  Hobbs Straus is a national law firm dedicated to promoting and defending the interests of Indian tribal governments and organizations. This position is open until filled.

Grand Canyon Trust

Rising Leaders Manager. Flagstaff, AZ. We’re looking for a new team member to support and coordinate a variety of young-leader-centered programs at the Grand Canyon Trust, from internships, to environmental justice workshops, to Indigenous youth river trips, to service learning projects and more. At the Trust, we believe young leaders are the key to lasting environmental and social change. Our Rising Leaders Program is rooted in justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion and focuses on developing young Indigenous leaders. The rising leaders manager will work with the community engagement team and other programs at the Trust to give young people (ages 15 to 30) opportunities to dive into conservation and environmental justice advocacy, learn about climate change and its impacts on Native communities, and connect to the landscape and each other. Open until filled.

Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians

Legislative Services Attorney. Harbor Springs, MI. Provides professional legal services to Tribal Council and Tribal Council committees. Please submit your cover letter, resume, and LTBB application form to hr@ltbbodawa-nsn.gov or via fax, mail, or in person at our Human Resources office. Open until filled.

New Mexico Legal Aide

Managing Attorney – Native American Program. Santa Ana Pueblo, NM. For this position, the Managing Attorney is responsible for overseeing the Native American Program including: The provisions of legal services. Supervising staff attorneys, paralegals, and other staff and volunteers. Performing administrative duties, and working in close collaboration with other members of NMLA’s management team. Organizing and participating in community education and outreach activities to the various Pueblo communities. Collaborating with tribal agencies and organizations. Being active in local bar and community activities. Open until filled.

Ziontz Chestnut

Associate Attorney. Seattle, WA.  The firm’s practice is wide-ranging and involves cutting-edge work on impactful issues advancing tribal rights. The firm has also developed a significant environmental law practice representing conservation organizations. Applicants must have the skills, judgment and character to make an immediate contribution to the firm’s work in litigation, transactions and other matters. This position is open until filled.

Earthjustice

Summer 2023 Policy & Legislation Internship. Washington DC. Under the supervision of the Legislative Assistant: Assist with tracking bills, monitoring appropriate Senate and House Committees, and following executive branch actions on issues of interest to PAL staff. Conduct online research. Attend (virtually or in person) Congressional hearings, coalition meetings, weekly department meetings, educational presentations, and other meetings as requested. Prepare and disseminate information to PAL staff, and Congressional offices as requested. Make phone calls to Congressional offices as requested. Assist with outreach and preparation for events sponsored by PAL. Support advocacy efforts through drafting and editing fact sheets, policy documents, and other collateral. Under the guidance of the legislative assistant, spearhead one independent research project on an issue of the intern’s interest that will culminate in a presentation to PAL staff. Perform administrative tasks as requested. Deadline to apply: March 26, 2023.

Tlingit & Haida

Associate Justice. Juneau, AK. Central Council Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska (T&H) is seeking interested candidates to serve on its Supreme Court. T&H Supreme Court is comprised of a Chief Justice and two Associate Justices. An Associate Justice appointment is a two-year term. This year T&H Tribal Assembly will elect an Associate Justice for the 2023-2025 term. The T&H Supreme Court hears appeals from the trial court. Closing date: 4:00pm (AKST) on March 19, 2023.

Municipality of Anchorage

Assistant Municipal Prosecutor. Anchorage, AK. Assistant Municipal Prosecutor positions provide a unique opportunity to gain valuable courtroom experience in Alaska’s trial courts. Attorneys cover court hearings several days a week and handle all aspects of a misdemeanor caseload from screening cases to drafting and negotiating plea offers to taking the case to jury trial. We have a collegial work environment supportive of new attorneys and seasoned attorneys alike. Successful applicants will enjoy a fast-paced office, embrace multi-tasking, and become a valuable part of our collaborative team. We work closely with the Anchorage Police Department, the District Attorney’s Office, and members of the public who have been impacted by crime. One attorney in our office is cross-designated as a Special Assistant United States Attorney at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska. Applications are due by March 20, 2023.

Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians

Assistant Attorney General. Alpine, CA. The Assistant Attorney General will work in the Office of the Attorney General under the direct supervision of the Attorney General for the Viejas Band. The Assistant Attorney General will work with the Attorney General and Deputy Attorneys General to render legal services to the Viejas Band, including its government departments, enterprises, and elected officials.  Competitive salary depending on experience and comprehensive benefits. Open until filled.

Federal Trade Commission, Office of General Counsel, Litigation Division

Attorney. Washington, D.C. Represent the Commission in all phases of judicial proceedings, including review of the agency’s decisions in the federal courts of appeals, appellate cases in which the Commission participates as amicus curiae, and district court proceedings to defend the agency or to enforce agency investigative document demands; Work with the FTC’s Bureaus of Competition and Consumer Protection in developing and litigating Commission lawsuits for injunctive relief and consumer redress under the FTC Act, and represent the Commission in all appeals in such cases; Coordinate with and provide assistance to the Department of Justice in litigating suits challenging Commission action, preparing amicus briefs, and developing litigating positions in the Supreme Court; and Provide legal counsel to the Commission and its officers, including litigation assessments of proposed cases and advice on legal questions of all stripes. Closing date:  March 23, 2023.

Lumbee Holdings

Legal Intern. Pembroke, NC. Main Duties: research, contract reviews etc. Closing: Open Until Filled.

Click here for last week’s job announcements!

Friday Job Announcements

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

  • Position title
  • Location (city, state)
  • Main duties
  • Closing date
  • Any other pertinent details, such as a link to the application
  • An attached PDF job announcement or link to the position description

Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians

Assistant Attorney General. Alpine, CA. The Assistant Attorney General will work in the Office of the Attorney General under the direct supervision of the Attorney General for the Viejas Band. The Assistant Attorney General will work with the Attorney General and Deputy Attorneys General to render legal services to the Viejas Band, including its government departments, enterprises, and elected officials.  Competitive salary depending on experience and comprehensive benefits. Open until filled.

Navajo Nation Office of the Attorney

Request for Proposal – Contract Counsel to the Office of the President and Vice President. Window Rock, AZ.  Assist the Navajo Nation Office of the President and Vice President in providing day-to-day legal services. Closing Date: March 10, 2023.

Federal Public Defender – District of New Mexico

Assistant Computer Systems Administrator. Albuquerque, NM. The Federal Public Defender for the District of New Mexico is seeking a full-time Assistant Computer Systems Administrator specializing in Desktop Support for our Albuquerque office. The mission of our office is to provide high quality, effective, and ethical legal representation to our clients charged with federal crimes. We are an equal opportunity employer. We seek to hire individuals who will promote the diversity of the office and federal practice. Closing date for posting is 3/19/2023.

Spokane Tribe of Indians

Tribal Prosecutor. Wellpinit, Washington. The Tribal Prosecutor represents the Spokane Tribe of Indians in criminal prosecutions, youth in need of care (dependency) actions, exclusion proceedings, truancy filing and certain civil code violations. The Tribal Prosecutor also advises certain Tribal Departments, including Law Enforcement and the Department. Candidate must be licensed to practice law in Washington State or be licensed to practice law in another state and become licensed to practice law in Washington State within six months of hiring. Open until filled.

Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians

Staff Attorney. Choctaw, MS. Under the direction of the Tribe’s Attorney General, the Staff Attorney is responsible for providing general legal services to the tribal government. Please see position description for more information. This position is open until filled.

Department of the Interior, Office of the Solicitor, Southwest Region,

Attorney-Adviser. Albuquerque, NM. The incumbent will provide legal support primarily to the Bureau of Reclamation, as well as to other bureaus within the Department of the Interior. The incumbent will provide oral and written legal advice and counsel, will be responsible for administrative litigation, and will assist the Department of Justice on judicial litigation on a variety of matters. The incumbent will focus on water rights matters, water quality regulation, the Reclamation Act, Indian water rights, realty and land title, the National Environmental Policy Act, the National Historic Preservation Act, the Endangered Species Act, and other federal and state laws. The incumbent should have a strong background in federal Indian law. The incumbent may also provide legal support on matters involving general law such as contracts, cooperative agreements, and FOIA; and other matters as assigned. Closing date: March 15, 2023.

Hobbs, Straus, Dean & Walker, LLP

Legislative Policy Advisor. Washington, DC. Hobbs, Straus, Dean & Walker, LLP is looking for a motivated, energetic individual to join its legislative and health policy team in its Washington, DC office.  Hobbs Straus is a national law firm dedicated to promoting and defending the interests of Indian tribal governments and organizations.  This position is open until filled.

The Association of Village Council Presidents

RFP. Remote. Soliciting proposals from qualified companies to provide investment management services, investment advice services, and/or record keeping services related to its employee retirement plans: a 401(a) Plan with profit sharing and matching contributions and a 403(b) Plan (currently a group annuity contract). Retirement Plan Providers who submit proposals must be able to provide investment management services to ensure AVCP employees have available an appropriately diversified mix of justifiably priced investments. Deadline for receipt of intent to bid acknowledgment form: 3/31/2023.

Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis

Assistant Vice President – Community Development & Engagement. Minneapolis, MN. The Community Development and Engagement Department (CDE) at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis is looking for an assistant vice president (AVP) to lead a team of policy analysts and contribute to the overall strategic direction of the department, build external networks and partnerships, and inform senior Bank leadership on economic and community development issues and opportunities. Open until filled.

Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California

Chief Judge. Gardnerville, NV. The Chief Judge of the Tribal Court shall have the duty and power to conduct court proceedings, and issue all orders and papers incident thereto, in order to administer justice in all matters within the jurisdiction of the Tribal Court. If interested we ask that you submit a letter of intent, resume, copies of certifications, and other relevant documentation supporting your intent to become the Washoe Tribe’s Chief Judge. Letters of intent must be received (not postmarked) no later than 4:00 pm (PST) on Wednesday March 10, 2023.

Click here for last week’s job announcements!

Friday Job Announcements

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

  • Position title
  • Location (city, state)
  • Main duties
  • Closing date
  • Any other pertinent details, such as a link to the application
  • An attached PDF job announcement or link to the position description

California Indian Legal Services

Housing Staff Attorney. Bishop, CA. The position will be primarily dedicated to eviction defense and homelessness prevention for low-income clients. Our fast-paced Office provides legal services related to homelessness prevention through community education, advice and consultation, representation without litigation, direct representation of tenants in Unlawful Detainer (eviction) proceedings in state court, and affirmative litigation on behalf of tenants against unlawful housing actions by landlords. The Housing Staff Attorney will assume a varied caseload that will include all the above. Our Office’s eviction defense work covers a large service territory including Alpine, Mono, and Inyo Counties. The far reaches of Alpine and Inyo Counties are a 4-hour drive one way from the Bishop Office. As a Staff Attorney you will collaborate with other CILS Directing Attorneys and the Legal Director for the purpose of managing legal work, mentoring and supervision, assistance and administration of local case management systems, grant and special project development and implementation, as directed by the Bishop Office’s Directing Attorney, the Legal Director, or the Executive Director. Closing date: 2.28.23

CA ChangeLawyer Fellowship. Bishop, CA. With support from California ChangeLawyers, California Indian Legal Services is hiring a fulltime summer fellow (current law student), post-bar (fall) fellow, or recent law school graduate, for a 2023 summer or fall fellowship. Supervised by the Bishop field office Directing Attorney and at the direction of the Legal Director, who supervises all CILS advocate work, the fellow will work collaboratively with other staff to provide exceptional legal services in multiple areas of federal Indian law. The fellow will have the opportunity to assume a varied case load that may include: brief counsel and services to low income Indian individuals; state and federal court litigation; contract negotiation; advising tribal clients; developing and implementing constitutions, codes, and policies for tribal clients; making presentations; and ICWA related dependency cases. While the fellow will be exposed to a variety of federal Indian laws, the fellow’s focus will be primarily on Native American Indian Allotments. The fellow will focus on a project to help Indians with interests in allotments to create organizations and implement decision making structures for economic development. The fellow will research and prepare a self-help guide for allottee interest holders to organize themselves and develop the allotment by forming an organization or family trust (entity) to make decisions on behalf of a majority of the interest holders. Closing date: 2.28.23

Rothstein Donatelli LLP

Summer Associate 2023. Tempe, AZ.  This is a 40 hour/week in-office position with remote work flexibility, as needed and approved upon hire.  Applicants must have completed 1L or 2L year by Summer 2023.  Excellent research abilities.  Excellent written and oral communication skills.  Indian law coursework and work experience is preferred but not required.  Closing Date: February 10, 2023. 

Earthjustice

Associate Attorney, Fossil Fuels. New Orleans, Houston or Austin. Earthjustice is soliciting applications for an Associate Attorney to join the Fossil Fuels Program. We use the power of the law to challenge the onslaught of new oil and gas infrastructure development that threatens climate, communities and the environment. This position will focus on oil and gas infrastructure in the U.S. Gulf region (Texas and Louisiana) and will be based in one of three locations: (1) in the New Orleans’ satellite office space shared with other Fossil Fuel Program staff, (2) in the Earthjustice Houston office, or (3) remote from Austin, Texas. Application deadline of 2/26/2023.

Associate Attorney, Oceans. San Francisco, CA. Earthjustice’s Oceans Program seeks an Associate Attorney to assist with our international legal advocacy and litigation to protect our planet’s oceans. This position can start in April, June, or September 2023.  The position will be based preferably in our San Francisco, CA office. Application deadline of 2/26/2023.

Senior Attorney, Gulf Regional. Houston, TX. Earthjustice is seeking a senior attorney to join our new Gulf Regional office, located in Houston, Texas or remotely from Texas, Louisiana or Mississippi. Apply by date preferred: 3/5/2023.

Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Assistant Public Defender. Durant, OK. You will defend all indigent clients in felony, misdemeanor, and traffic cases that are punishable by incarceration in the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma District Court. You will report to the Public Defender Director and will be officed at the Public Defenders Office in Durant, Oklahoma. Closing Date: 3/08/2023.4

Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians

Assistant General Counsel. Peshawbestown, Michigan. Remote work possible after 90 day probationary period.  Provides legal representation for the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians Tribal Council (GTB). The candidate must be able to perform both legislative and executive services. The candidate must have also engaged in federal district court litigation at the trial and appellate level; published opinions preferred. Minimum 8 years’ experience in Indian law.  Brief writing sample is mandatory.  Indian preference applies. Open until filled.

Pueblo of Sandia in New Mexico:

Assistant General Counsel-Water. Albuquerque, NM. Under the general supervision of the In-house General Counsel, the Assistant General Counsel is a key member of the Pueblo’s legal team. The Assistant General Counsel’s responsibilities will cover a variety of legal matters that would typically confront a tribal general counsel’s office, including: providing a diverse range of legal advice to the Pueblo and its economic enterprises; performing high level legal research and analysis in various areas of law and policy; and serving as the primary legal contact for the Pueblo’s enterprises on contract matters, subject to the direction and oversight of the General Counsel. A background in Indian law is required, without exception. Open until filled.

The Hopi Tribe

Deputy General Counsel. Kykotsmovi AZ. This is a tribal inhouse counsel position for the Hopi Tribe.  The position processes requests for legal review by the Tribal Council and the Tribe’s Officers, Departments and Programs.  These requests can range from contract review to answering and analyzing complex questions of law dealing with natural resources to human resources. Open until filled.

Chief Prosecutor. Keam Canyon, AZ. The Chief Prosecutor administers the Hopi Tribe’s Office of the Tribal Prosecutor.  He or she is responsible for the prosecution of violations of the Hopi tribal code and pursues dependency matters pursuant to the Hopi Children’s’ Code.  This position works (and coordinates) with Hopi and BIA law enforcement, the FBI and US attorney’s office.  The position also works with the Tribal Council in reviewing the Code and law enforcement matters on the Hopi Reservation.  Importantly, the position prosecutes cases before the Hopi Tribal Courts. Open until filled

Deputy Tribal Prosecutor. Keam Canyon, AZ. The Deputy is responsible for the prosecution of violations of the Hopi tribal code and pursues dependency matters pursuant to the Hopi Children’s’ Code.  .  This position works (and coordinates) with Hopi and BIA law enforcement, the FBI and US attorney’s office.  The position also works with the Tribal Council in reviewing the Code and law enforcement matters on the Hopi Reservation.  Importantly, the position prosecutes cases before the Hopi Tribal Courts. Open until filled

Office of the Attorney General – Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians

Assistant Attorney General. Alpine, CA. The Assistant Attorney General will work in the Office of the Attorney General under the direct supervision of the Attorney General for the Viejas Band. The Assistant Attorney General will work with the Attorney General and Deputy Attorneys General to render legal services to the Viejas Band, including its government departments, enterprises, and elected officials.  Competitive salary depending on experience and comprehensive benefits. Open until filled.

Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe

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. Closing Date: February 18, 2023.

Tribal Deputy Prosecutor. Port Angeles, WA. The Tribal Prosecutor is a critical partner in advancing these goals while identifying and addressing associated threats to the political, social, and cultural integrity of the Tribe relating to tribal justice and victimization. Closing Date: February 18, 2023.

Tribal Defense Attorney. Port Angeles, WA. The Tribal Defense attorney is responsible for representing defendants in adult criminal cases, youth in delinquency and status offense cases, parents or other legal custodians in child dependency cases, and Elwha Tribal members in contested traffic, housing, and civil regulatory cases. Closing Date: February 18, 2023.

San Francisco State University

Tribal Government Relations Lead. San Francisco, CA. The Tribal Government Relations Lead is responsible for overseeing the San Francisco State University (SF State) NAGPRA Program, compliance with both NAGPRA and CalNAGPRA, and Tribal, local, state, and federal engagement. The candidate will help guide the actions of SF State in meeting the goals of the NAGPRA program to (1) continue ongoing NAGPRA and CalNAGPRA compliance (2) help SF State establish a proactive and sustainable NAGPRA consultation program with Native American Tribes. Closing date: Open until filled.

Bay Mills Indian Community

Attorney. Brimley, MI. The attorney works under the direct supervision of the President of the Bay Mills Indian Community and Bay Mills Community College, and provides strategic legal advice as counsel for and on behalf of the Bay Mills Indian Community, and all its governmental and commercial entities to advance compliance with applicable laws, to appear as such before all federal, state and tribal courts, tribunals, departments, agencies and committees of Congress and the State legislatures, including services in connection with tribal claims against the United States. Work directly in developing tribal legislation, public policy, regulations, and represent Bay Mills in cases related to federal Indian law, the Indian Child Welfare Act, Indian gaming, environmental law, or natural resource law. Closing Date: Open Until Filled.

CA Energy Commissions

Attorney I. Hybrid – CA. Do you want to work directly with the state’s principal energy policymakers? The California Energy Commission seeks an Attorney I in the Regulatory & Advisory Unit of the Chief Counsel’s Office. The Chief Counsel’s Office is a full-service law office involved in all phases of Commission activity. Final day to apply: 2/26/2023.

Office of the Attorney General – Navajo Nation Department of Justice

Request for Proposal – Arizona Legal and Litigation Services. Window Rock, AZ. Assist the Navajo Nation Department of Justice, Water Rights Unit in legal and litigation services related primarily to the Water Rights in the State of Arizona. Closing Date: February 17, 2023

Request for Proposal – Federal Lobbying and Legal Services. Window Rock, AZ.  Assist the Navajo Nation Department of Justice, Water Rights Unit to provide legislative, lobbying and/or legal services. Closing Date: February 17, 2023.

Request for Proposal – New Mexico Legal and Litigation Services. Window Rock, AZ. Assist the Navajo Nation Department of Justice, Water Rights Unit in legal and litigation services primarily to Water Rights in the State of New Mexico. Closing Date: February 17, 2023.

Request for Proposal – Utah Legal and Litigation Services. Window Rock, AZ.  Assist the Navajo Nation Department of Justice, Water Rights Unit in legal and litigation services primarily to Water Rights in the State of Utah. Closing Date: February 17, 2023.

Environmental Law Institute

Research & Policy Intern (Summer 2023). Washington D.C. ELI is seeking Research & Policy interns for the summer of 2023 to assist with our portfolio of uniquely positioned environmental law and policy projects addressing critical environmental and sustainable development challenges domestically and internationally. Application Deadline: 3/1/23.

Peebles Kidder

Associate Attorney. Rapid City, SD. Provide counsel and legal services to new and existing clients in a professional and expedient manner. Interact in person with clients – travel in the region is required for this position. Apply knowledge of legal procedures and previous cases to effectively counsel clients. Conduct legal research by preparing legal memoranda and drafting pleadings required in all aspects of tribal, federal, and state litigation matters. Represent clients in tribal, federal, and occasionally in state courts. Draft contracts and agreements and analyze legal documents. Conduct legal research and gather evidence; interpret laws, rulings and regulations. Apply knowledge of legal procedures and previous cases to effectively counsel clients. Comply with all court, state bar and inter-office policies and procedures. Achieve firm’s monthly and annual billable hours requirement.

Click here for last week’s job announcements!

Friday Job Announcements

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

  • Position title
  • Location (city, state)
  • Main duties
  • Closing date
  • Any other pertinent details, such as a link to the application
  • An attached PDF job announcement or link to the position description

Hobbs, Straus, Dean & Walker, LLP

Legislative Policy Advisor. Washington, DC. Hobbs, Straus, Dean & Walker, LLP, a national law firm dedicated to promoting and defending the interests of Indian tribal governments and organizations, seeks a Legislative Policy Advisor to work in its Washington, DC office. This position is open until filled. Please see the Job Announcement for more information and how to apply.

Rothstein Donatelli

Summer Associate 2023. Tempe, AZ. This is a 40 hour/week in-office position with remote work flexibility, as needed and approved upon hire. Applicants must have completed 1L or 2L year by Summer 2023. Excellent research abilities. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Indian law coursework and work experience is preferred but not required. Closing Date: February 10, 2023.

Bay Mills Indian Community

Attorney. Brimley, MI. The attorney works under the direct supervision of the President of the Bay Mills Indian Community and Bay Mills Community College, and provides strategic legal advice as counsel for and on behalf of the Bay Mills Indian Community, and all its governmental and commercial entities to advance compliance with applicable laws, to appear as such before all federal, state and tribal courts, tribunals, departments, agencies and committees of Congress and the State legislatures, including services in connection with tribal claims against the United States. Work directly in developing tribal legislation, public policy, regulations, and represent Bay Mills in cases related to federal Indian law, the Indian Child Welfare Act, Indian gaming, environmental law, or natural resource law. For more information please see the position description. Closing Date: Open Until Filled.

The Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan

Senior Associate General Counsel. Mt. Pleasant, MI. Under the supervision of General Counsel, represent the tribe in all judicial and administrative forums and in the tribe’s governmental and business relations with all persons, organizations and entities, public and private, excluding representation performed by the General Counsel. Open Until Filled.

Colorado River Indian Tribes

Legal Aid Director. Parker, AZ. The Legal Aid Department only serves C.R.I.T. enrolled community members in civil matters. Persons who are eligible for enrollment with C.R.I.T. are also eligible for services. Open until filled.

Public Defender. Parker, AZ. The Public Defender will also be responsible for management of the Public Defender’s Office and staff including administrative and budgeting duties and supervision of staff in representing and counseling eligible Tribal Members. Open until filled.

Chief Judge. Parker, AZ. The Chief Judge is responsible for fairly and impartially hearing and deciding judicial matters within the jurisdiction of the Colorado River Indian Tribes pursuant to the Colorado River Indian Tribal Laws, ordinances and regulations, or applicable state laws.  The Chief Judge is responsible for protecting the administrative operations of the Colorado River Indian Tribal court and supervises the Tribal Court and its employees. This position is Open Until Filled.

Cultural Heritage Partners

Professional Executive Assistant. Richmond, VA or remote (Eastern Time Zone preferred). Cultural Heritage Partners, a law and policy firm focused on cultural heritage law, seeks a professional Executive Assistant with a four-year college degree and at least five years of applicable experience to support a busy partner and our tribal practice. Primary responsibilities will include managing an extremely active calendar of appointments, participating in meetings with clients and the executive, taking and distributing notes, and project/task management. Open until filled.

Native Organizers Alliance

Director of Policy. Remote. Reporting to the Managing Director, the Director of Policy will provide leadership for our public policy work, working directly with the Executive Director and Native Organizers Alliance ecosystem of organizations and Tribal leadership. The candidate should also have a familiarity with the history and current situation in Indian Country. Prior experience in working with Tribal and Native communities and organizations is desirable. Closing date: Open until filled.

Alaska Public Defender Agency

Attorney 1-4. AK (Anchorage, Bethel, Dillingham, Fairbanks, Juneau, Kenai, Ketchikan, Kodiak, Kotzebue, Nome, Palmer, Sitka, and Utqiagvik). The Agency’s mission is to provide constitutionally mandated legal representation to indigent clients appointed by the court. The Agency hires new lawyers and experienced attorneys to handle civil (Child in Need of Aid and commitment), appellate, and criminal matters. Open until filled.

Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe

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. Closing date: Open until filled.

Tribal Deputy Prosecutor. Port Angeles, WA. The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe is dedicated to fully exercising its sovereignty to prevent and reduce criminal activity and victimization on the Reservation through vigorous and effective investigation and prosecution of crimes combined with effective use of traditional healing and cultural services provided to victims and appropriate corrective action for offenders. The Tribal Prosecutor is a critical partner in advancing these goals while identifying and addressing associated threats to the political, social, and cultural integrity of the Tribe relating to tribal justice and victimization. Closing date: Open until filled.

Tribal Defense Attorney. Port Angeles, WA. The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe is dedicated to fully exercising its sovereignty to prevent and reduce criminal activity and victimization on the Reservation. At the same time, pursuant to the Lower Elwha Constitution, Article VII, Bill of Rights, the Lower Elwha Judicial Code §§ 1.2, 6.11(3)(c), and the Indian Civil Rights Act of 1968, 25 U.S.C. § 1302(a)(8), the Tribe is dedicated to affording due process to all persons subject to the Tribe’s authority. In order to facilitate due process, the Tribe employs the Tribal Defense Attorney to represent defendants/respondents in proceedings initiated by the Tribe in the Lower Elwha Tribal Court. Closing date: Open until filled.

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.

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.

Principal Attorney. Window Rock, AZ.  Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, represents the Navajo Nation government; Review documents, such as service contracts, sub-recipient and grant agreements, legislation, proposed policies, etc., for legal sufficiency. Participate in negotiations regarding legal documents/agreements with parties outside of the Navajo Nation. Respond to Request for Services and other legal inquiries from clients. Perform legal research and provide legal advice verbally and in writing. Legal advice and services will include: conducting initial eligibility determination reviews on proposed FRF expenditure plans; interpreting federal, state, and Navajo laws, regulation, policies, and procedures; and advising on legal compliance in the implementation of FRF programs and projects.  This position is open until filled.

Attorney, (Litigation Unit). Window Rock, AZ.  Legal work related to federal, Navajo Nation, and state court and administrative tribunal representation of the Navajo Nation Government, as assigned by the Assistant Attorney General of the Litigation Unit or the Office of the Attorney General, and Deputy Attorney General, including legal research, pleading drafting, and settlement negotiation for Litigation Unit of the Department of Justice. Review of proposed disciplinary actions by Navajo Nation government programs for compliance with Navajo Nation Personnel Policies Manual and Navajo Preference in Employment Act. Drafting of proposed Navajo Nation legislation, regulations, and policies. Other duties as assigned.  This position is open until filled.

Attorney, (Human Services and Government Unit). Window Rock, AZ.  Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, represents the Navajo Nation government in reviewing documents, such as services contracts, sub-recipient and grant agreements, legislation, proposed policies, etc., for legal sufficiency. Participates in negotiations regarding legal documents/agreements with parties outside of the Navajo Nation. Respond to Request for Services and other legal inquiries from clients. Perform legal research and provide legal advice verbally and in writing. Legal advice and services will include: conducting initial eligibility determination reviews on proposed FRF expenditure plans; interpreting federal, state, and Navajo laws, regulation, policies, and procedures; and advising on legal compliance in the implementation of FRF programs and projects.  This position is open until filled.

Attorney Candidate. Window Rock, AZ.  Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General, the Attorney General, or the Deputy Attorney General, provides legal direction to Navajo Nation Divisions, Departments and offices, regarding a wide range of legal issues, including statutory and regulatory authority, contracts and procurement issues, and intergovernmental relations; Assists Attorneys; prepares and presents civil cases in tribal court and administrative bodies; confers and provides guidance, and prepares advisory opinions for assigned departments and branches of the government; prepares interpretations of new legislation and judicial decisions; reviews contracts, leases, permits and related documents; interviews witnesses, complainants, and others on a variety of legal matters; conducts legal research, prepares briefs, pleadings and other legal documents.  This position is open until filled.

Senior Attorney, (Tax and Finance Unit). Window Rock, AZ.  Respond to Requests for Services and other legal inquiries from clients, particularly in the area of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and federal Fiscal Recovery Funds (FRF). Perform legal research and provide legal advice orally and in writing.  Legal advice and services will include: conducting initial eligibility determination reviews on proposed FRF expenditure plans; interpreting federal, state, and Navajo laws, regulations, policies, and procedures; as well as advising on legal compliance in the implementation of FRF programs and projects. Participate in Legislative Branch and Executive Branch meetings, including Standing Committee meetings and Council Sessions, regarding approval of FRF expenditure plans and the planning and implementation of FRF programs and projects, in order to respond to legal questions pertaining ARPA and the use of FRF.  This position is open until filled.

Principal Attorney (Human Services and Government Unit). Window Rock, AZ.  Under the general direction of the Assistant Attorney General, Attorney General or the Deputy Attorney General, the position is assigned to the “Humans Services & Government Unit” of the Office of the Attorney General; Provides legal direction to other attorneys and advocates in providing complex legal representation of Navajo Nation Divisions, Departments, and Programs regarding a wide range of legal issues. Performs professional legal work, research; presents cases in court and performs related duties as required; confers with, gives advice to and prepares opinions for various departments and branches of the Navajo Nation; drafts legal and judicial processes; prepares interpretations of new legislation and judicial decisions; reviews contracts, mortgages, leases, permits and related documents; conducts interviews on a variety of legal matters; conducts legal research, prepares briefs, pleadings and other legal documents. Assist in routine operation of the Department of Justice. This position is open until filled.

Attorney (Human Services and Government Unit). Window Rock, AZ.  Under general direction of Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General, and Deputy Attorney General, provides legal direction to Navajo Nation Division, Departments and Offices, regarding a wide range of legal issues, including statutory and regulatory authority, contract disputes and procurement issues; and intergovernmental relations; performs professional legal work in research, trial prep and other legal work; and performs related duties as required. Confers with, gives advice to, and prepares opinions for assigned departments and branches of the government; drafts legal and judicial processes; prepares interpretations of new legislation and judicial decisions; reviews contracts, leases, permits and related documents; interviews witnesses, complainants, and others on a variety of legal matters; conducts legal research, prepares briefs, pleadings and other legal documents.  This position is open until filled.

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.

Senior Prosecutor. Crownpoint, NM. Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code and present major and complex litigation in District and Family Courts. 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; collaborates with law enforcement agencies; and negotiates settlement with opposing parties. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until filled.

Prosecutor. Crownpoint, 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.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until filled.

Click here for last week’s job announcements!

Friday Job Announcements

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

  • Position title
  • Location (city, state)
  • Main duties
  • Closing date
  • Any other pertinent details, such as a link to the application
  • An attached PDF job announcement or link to the position description

American Civil Liberties Union of Idaho

Legal Director. Boise, ID. The Legal Director is a thought leader who will work collaboratively to develop and manage impact litigation challenging laws and policies that impact vulnerable Idahoans. The Legal Director works with our policy, organizing, and communications staff in addition to our Executive Director and many other partners to develop a strategic, smart, and innovative docket and advance advocacy efforts. The Legal Director will work with the ACLU of Idaho Legal Panel and assist with recruiting and working successfully with cooperating attorneys. Review of applications will begin January 31, 2023 but the position is open until filled.

Rothstein Donatelli LLP

Summer Associate. Tempe, AZ. This is a 40 hour/week in-office position with remote work flexibility, as needed and approved upon hire.  Applicants must have completed 1L or 2L year by Summer 2023.  Excellent research abilities.  Excellent written and oral communication skills.  Indian law coursework and work experience is preferred but not required.  Closing Date: February 10, 2023.

Quinault Tribal Court

RFQ – Evaluation Services. Taholah, WA. Evaluator will work with Wellness Court staff to identify and review program progress. Evaluator will lead the organization in information gathering, assessment, review, and reporting. The end product will be a complete data driven report. Performance metrics must be included within agency reports. Closing Date: 2/15/23.

Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation

RFB – CTUIR Legal Aid Program. Northeast OR. Attorneys bids should identify any or all of matters in which they are interested, indicate availability for in person or remote advising, and availability for court representation. The practice areas include benefits (social security, veterans, Medicare/Medicaid, assistance for food, general needs and tribal assistance), tribal child dependency, DV protection orders, unemployment compensation, housing, employment disputes, child custody and visitation, consumer rights, probate, civil rights, family law, personal injury, community education and torts.  The attorney should be admitted to the jurisdiction applicable to the matter at hand. Eligible clients for these services reside in NE Oregon in one of the following counties: Umatilla, Gilliam, Morrow, Wallowa or Union.

Maricopa County Superior Court

Judicial Vacancies. Maricopa County, AZ. The Maricopa County Commission on Trial Court Appointments will review applications, interview selected applicants, and recommend at least three nominees for each vacancy to Gov. Katie Hobbs, who will appoint the new judges. Closing date: 02/03/2023.

Pinal County Superior Court

Judicial Vacancies. Pinal County, AZ. Main duties: The Pinal County Commission on Trial Court Appointments will review applications, interview selected applicants, and recommend at least three nominees for each vacancy to Governor Katie Hobbs, who will appoint the new judges. Closing date: 02/09/2023.

American Civil Liberties Union of Montana

Executive Director. Missoula, MT. The ACLU of MT seeks an Executive Director (ED) to be the next leader of the ACLU of MT with responsibility for managing the day-to-day activities and operations of the organization, leading fundraising efforts, motivating and coordinating the work of a professional staff in an open and collaborative workplace, and serving as the primary spokesperson for the organization. The ED will ensure that the organization is fiscally sound and that its litigation, advocacy, fundraising, and communications programs are meeting the current and emergent needs and interests of its constituents. Closing date: May 10, 2023.

U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan

Attorney – Affirmative Civil Enforcement. Grand Rapids, MI. This attorney will be responsible for the investigation and prosecution of a variety of civil cases. These may include actions in which there have been false or fraudulent claims or false statements made to the United States, violations of the Controlled Substances Act, violations of federal civil rights or environmental laws, and other types of cases. The application deadline is January 20, 2023.

Attorney – Civil Defensive. Grand Rapids, MI. This attorney will join eight other civil AUSAs who handle a wide variety of defensive and affirmative litigation. Responsibilities may include any of the following types of cases: tort, employment, Administrative Procedure Act, Bivens, immigration, fraud, Controlled Substances Act, environmental, bankruptcy, commercial litigation, and others. The application deadline is January 20, 2023.

Department of the Attorney General of Michigan

Word Processing Assistant – Corporate Oversight Division. Lansing, MI. If you are interested in being considered for this position, please apply in NeoGov to job number 1101-23-004. Closing date: 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 23, 2023.

Staff Attorney – Revenue and Tax Division. Lansing, MI. If you are interested in being considered for this position, please apply in NeoGov to job number 1101-22-018. Closing date: 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 23, 2023.

Staff Attorney – Licensing and Regulation Division. Lansing, MI. If you are interested in being considered for this position, please apply in NeoGov to job number 1101-22-050. Closing date: 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 23, 2023.

Info Tech Programmer/Analyst – Criminal Investigations Division. Detroit, MI. If you are interested in being considered for this position, please apply in NeoGov to job number 1101-23-006. Closing date: 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 16, 2023.

Nevada Legal Services

Legal Secretary. Reno, Las Vegas, Carson City, Elko and Yerington, NV. Perform outreach and communicate with community partners as needed. Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of and experience with Native American community, tradition, and culture. Applicants must have an interest and passion for helping low-income Nevadans, tribal members, seniors and veterans. Capability to work with low-income clients from diverse backgrounds, including clients with physical and mental disabilities and clients with limited English proficiency. Closing date: Open until filled.

New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department

Mining and Minerals Division Director. Santa Fe, NM. The Mining and Minerals Division Director directs and oversees the Division’s statewide statutory and regulatory responsibilities with respect to mining and mineral extraction including assuring the responsible utilization, reclamation and safeguarding of New Mexico’s lands affected by mining and is a leader in responsible mine operation and reclamation, as well as supervising 33 current staff, both technical and administrative, within the Division’s programs. Additionally, the Director serves as New Mexico’s representative to the Interstate Mining Compact Commission and is the designee for the Cabinet Secretary on the Mine Safety Board. The position reports to the Cabinet Secretary of Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources and is appointed by the Governor. This position is open until filled

Oil Conservation Division Director. Santa Fe, NM. The Oil Conservation Division Director directs and oversees the Division’s statewide statutory and regulatory responsibilities with respect to oil and gas production. The Division gathers oil and gas well production data, permits new oil, gas, and injection wells, enforces the Division’s rules, develops administrative orders to which operators are subject, enforces the State’s oil and gas statutes, ensures abandoned wells are properly plugged and that the land is responsibly restored once production activities are completed. The OCD’s goals are to promote balanced, consistent, fair, and transparent regulation of the oil and gas industry, to prevent the waste of oil and gas resources within the state, to protect the correlative rights of resource owners, to foster efficient development, and to protect human health and the environment. The Division Director supervises 87 full time equivalent employees, both technical and administrative, within the Division’s programs. Additionally, the Director serves as the Chair of the Oil Conservation Commission. The position reports to the Cabinet Secretary of Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources and is appointed by the Governor. This position is open until filled.

Tribal Nations Service Group

1L Summer Associate Program. Portland, ME. Over the course of 10 weeks, summer associates gain experience with the practice of law at Drummond Woodsum and with our group of lawyers and staff by working on substantive client matters. Summer associates do not work in isolation- receiving assignments from and sending completed work back to a Summer Associate Coordinator.  Summer associates get a true sense for associate life at Drummond Woodsum.  Summer associates meet with the assigning attorney at the beginning of each project to discuss what is expected and again at the completion of the assignment to receive feedback on their work.  Summer associates are also invited to attend our monthly Firm Lunch meetings where various groups highlight what they’re working on, as well as smaller practice group meetings to get a better understanding of the type of work Drummond Woodsum takes on and how we approach such work. Application Closes: January 27, 2023.

1L Summer Associate Program. Flagstaff, AZ. Over the course of 10 weeks, summer associates gain experience with the practice of law at Drummond Woodsum and with our group of lawyers and staff by working on substantive client matters. Summer associates do not work in isolation- receiving assignments from and sending completed work back to a Summer Associate Coordinator.  Summer associates get a true sense for associate life at Drummond Woodsum.  Summer associates meet with the assigning attorney at the beginning of each project to discuss what is expected and again at the completion of the assignment to receive feedback on their work.  Summer associates are also invited to attend our monthly Firm Lunch meetings where various groups highlight what they’re working on, as well as smaller practice group meetings to get a better understanding of the type of work Drummond Woodsum takes on and how we approach such work. Application Closes: January 27, 2023.

Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

Senior Associate General Counsel. Mount Pleasant, MI.  Under the supervision of General Counsel, represent the tribe in all judicial and administrative forums and in the tribe’s governmental and business relations with all persons, organizations and entities, public and private, excluding representation performed by the General Counsel. This position is open until filled.

Indigenous Justice Circle

Communications, Marketing, Design Intern. Remote work and/or Greater New York City Metro Area. The intern will work with a Native-female-non-profit leadership team in our New York City office on Communications, Marketing, and Design projects for the Indigenous Adolescent Girls’ Empowerment Network (IMAGEN) (www.imagen-network.org) project. IMAGEN combats MMIWG and strengthens the protection, safety, and resilience of girls in Native American communities by reclaiming neighborhood spaces in which to rekindle sacred matrilineal traditions through Girl Societies (group-based mentoring and leadership development). Renewable based on performance and project funding. Open until filled.

The Environmental Law Institute

Education Intern. Washington D.C. This internship is in environmental event planning and professional education. The Educational Programming Intern will conduct research, assist with planning and facilitating professional programming (conferences (including Western Boot Camp), seminars, webinars), write blog articles, assist with the preparation and day-of coordination of programs, perform some administrative tasks, among other responsibilities. ELI integrates interns into the day-to-day operations of the Institute, and while the main intern for this department, he or she will be part of a larger intern cohort. Lastly, the intern will conduct research on a topic of the intern’s choice and present research towards the end of the internship. Closing date: 1/23/2023.

Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas

Protective Services Attorney. Remote. Provide support in Child Welfare, Juvenile and Adult in Need of Care litigation on behalf of and representing the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas and the Kickapoo Indian Child Welfare Services Department (ICWS). Open until filled.

Muckleshoot Tribal Court

Chief Judge. Auburn, WA. The Chief Judge will supervise, assign court calendars or cases, and evaluate Associate Judges, hear court cases at the Muckleshoot Tribal Court, using the Tribe’s applicable Codes and Ordinances, adjudicating matters and entering decisions on the record and/or in writing. Assist the Tribal Court staff with suggestions on how to improve the functions of the Tribal Court. Engage in tribal or community events on behalf of the Tribal Court with the goal of building relationships. Abide by all applicable Tribal codes in addition to WA State Rules of Professional Conduct (RPCs). Closing date: Ongoing/when filled.

Alaska Legal Services Corporation

Native Law Staff Attorney. Fairbanks, AK. This position primarily involves representing tribal clients in proceedings related to the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), as well as litigating other Native law and civil matters on behalf of TCC Tribes and tribal members. The attorney will be expected to manage a caseload of state court child in need of aid cases, in addition to other civil and Native law matters. The attorney will also have the opportunity to participate in strategic coordination with statewide teams, and participate in appellate and impact litigation. This position will remain open until filled.

Native Law Staff Attorney. Anchorage, AK (negotiable within state). This position primarily involves representation of tribal clients in state child welfare proceedings and enforcing the Indian Child Welfare Act, and may also involve litigating other matters on behalf of AVCP Tribes and tribal members. The AVCP ICWA attorney will serve clients in cases primarily heard in Anchorage, Alaska courts, serving clients in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, but will also be expected to manage cases arising elsewhere in the state as needed. The AVCP ICWA attorney will be required to manage a caseload limited to 50 families’ state court child in need of aid cases. In addition, the AVCP ICWA attorney will also have the opportunity to participate in appellate and impact litigation. For this position, the attorney will be based in Anchorage, Alaska, though other locations in Alaska may be negotiable. This position will remain open until filled.

The Native American Heritage Commission

Chief Counsel, CEA Level B. Sacramento, CA. The Chief Counsel serves as the principal legal adviser to the Executive Secretary and the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) providing advice and counsel to ensure internal compliance with control agency laws, regulations, and policies. The Chief Counsel plans, directs, organizes, and manages NAHC’s Legal Department staff in enforcing state laws that protect Native American cultural resources on public and private lands; approves high-level policy decisions for the rule making process; responsible for overseeing administrative hearings required under CalNAGPRA and enacting policy and regulations implementing those administrative hearings; and oversees outside litigation counsel regarding any NAHC litigation matters. Closing Date: 1/27/2023.

Department of Agriculture, Office of the General Counsel

Assistant General Counsel. Washington D.C. Provides legal advice and overall legal support to the Under Secretaries, agency administrators, and other senior officials who are responsible for the programs and activities of the Department. Manages the development and application of legal policies, and supervises a staff of attorneys who draft, review, and approve, for legal sufficiency regulations, legislation, cooperative agreements, memoranda of understanding, and other agreements. Prepares legal memoranda and opinions on questions of law; prepares litigation reports, pleadings, statements of fact, declarations, briefs, and other documents in connection with lawsuits filed by or against the United States. Works with the Department of Justice in the trial of cases in the Federal courts; and prepare and present cases before Administrative Law Judges, the Judicial Officer, and other hearing officers appointed for particular proceedings. Participates, as counsel for the Department, in conferences and meetings with leading representatives of industry, business, and agriculture, and interested and affected members of the public. Responsible for developing and recommending procedures for handling the work of the division; overseeing the training and development of the legal and support staff; assigning work and evaluating the performance of the legal and support staff. Closing date: 2/3/2023.

Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians

Legislative Services Attorney. Harbor Springs, MI. The primary function of the Legislative Services Attorney is to serve the Tribal Council and provide legal advice in order to promote and protect Tribal Sovereignty, Tribal Self-sufficiency, and Tribal Self-determination. The Legislative Services Attorney shall interact and communicate with Tribal Council and Tribal Council committees, representatives from other tribes, local, state, and federal units of government when necessary; and in some cases, the Tribal citizens, while maintaining effective cooperative relationships. The Legislative Services Attorney will provide representation of Tribal Council; provide advice and analysis of the Tribal Constitution, Tribal Codes, state and federal laws and regulations; negotiate and draft legal, business and State/Tribal documents; and draft Resolutions, Statutes, Certified Motions, policies, procedures, Legislative Directives, Declarations, Special Tributes, agreements, proposals, legal memorandums, Memorandums of Understandings (MOU), Leases and contracts for the Tribe and Tribal Council. Open until filled.

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.

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.

Principal Attorney. Window Rock, AZ.  Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, represents the Navajo Nation government; Review documents, such as service contracts, sub-recipient and grant agreements, legislation, proposed policies, etc., for legal sufficiency. Participate in negotiations regarding legal documents/agreements with parties outside of the Navajo Nation. Respond to Request for Services and other legal inquiries from clients. Perform legal research and provide legal advice verbally and in writing. Legal advice and services will include: conducting initial eligibility determination reviews on proposed FRF expenditure plans; interpreting federal, state, and Navajo laws, regulation, policies, and procedures; and advising on legal compliance in the implementation of FRF programs and projects. This position is open until filled.

Attorney (Litigation Unit). Window Rock, AZ.  Legal work related to federal, Navajo Nation, and state court and administrative tribunal representation of the Navajo Nation Government, as assigned by the Assistant Attorney General of the Litigation Unit or the Office of the Attorney General, and Deputy Attorney General, including legal research, pleading drafting, and settlement negotiation for Litigation Unit of the Department of Justice. Review of proposed disciplinary actions by Navajo Nation government programs for compliance with Navajo Nation Personnel Policies Manual and Navajo Preference in Employment Act. Drafting of proposed Navajo Nation legislation, regulations, and policies. Other duties as assigned.  This position is open until filled.

Attorney (Human Services and Government Unit). Window Rock, AZ.  Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, represents the Navajo Nation government in reviewing documents, such as services contracts, sub-recipient and grant agreements, legislation, proposed policies, etc., for legal sufficiency. Participates in negotiations regarding legal documents/agreements with parties outside of the Navajo Nation. Respond to Request for Services and other legal inquiries from clients. Perform legal research and provide legal advice verbally and in writing. Legal advice and services will include: conducting initial eligibility determination reviews on proposed FRF expenditure plans; interpreting federal, state, and Navajo laws, regulation, policies, and procedures; and advising on legal compliance in the implementation of FRF programs and projects.  This position is open until filled.

Attorney Candidate. Window Rock, AZ.  Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General, the Attorney General, or the Deputy Attorney General, provides legal direction to Navajo Nation Divisions, Departments and offices, regarding a wide range of legal issues, including statutory and regulatory authority, contracts and procurement issues, and intergovernmental relations; Assists Attorneys; prepares and presents civil cases in tribal court and administrative bodies; confers and provides guidance, and prepares advisory opinions for assigned departments and branches of the government; prepares interpretations of new legislation and judicial decisions; reviews contracts, leases, permits and related documents; interviews witnesses, complainants, and others on a variety of legal matters; conducts legal research, prepares briefs, pleadings and other legal documents.  This position is open until filled.

Senior Attorney (Tax and Finance Unit). Window Rock, AZ.  Respond to Requests for Services and other legal inquiries from clients, particularly in the area of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and federal Fiscal Recovery Funds (FRF). Perform legal research and provide legal advice orally and in writing.  Legal advice and services will include: conducting initial eligibility determination reviews on proposed FRF expenditure plans; interpreting federal, state, and Navajo laws, regulations, policies, and procedures; as well as advising on legal compliance in the implementation of FRF programs and projects. Participate in Legislative Branch and Executive Branch meetings, including Standing Committee meetings and Council Sessions, regarding approval of FRF expenditure plans and the planning and implementation of FRF programs and projects, in order to respond to legal questions pertaining ARPA and the use of FRF.  This position is open until filled.

Principal Attorney (Human Services and Government Unit). Window Rock, AZ. Provides legal direction to other attorneys and advocates in providing complex legal representation of Navajo Nation Divisions, Departments, and Programs regarding a wide range of legal issues. Some legal issues may include statutory and regulatory review, contract disputes and procurement issues, and intergovernmental relations; performs professional legal work, research; presents cases in court and performs related duties as required; confers with, gives advice to and prepares opinions for various departments and branches of the Navajo Nation; drafts legal and judicial processes; prepares interpretations of new legislation and judicial decisions; reviews contracts, mortgages, leases, permits and related documents; conducts interviews on a variety of legal matters; conducts legal research, prepares briefs, pleadings and other legal documents. Advises clients and members of the various oversight committees of the Navajo Nation Council, as is required, on legal questions. Provides opinions on Navajo Nation law and policies and/or legislations/resolutions that may impact the Navajo Nation. Assist in routine operation of the Department of Justice. This position is open until filled.

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 is open until filled.

Senior Prosecutor. Crownpoint, NM. Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code and present major and complex litigation in District and Family Courts. 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; collaborates with law enforcement agencies; and negotiates settlement with opposing parties. This position is open until filled.

Prosecutor. Crownpoint, 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. This position is open until filled.

Click here for last week’s job announcements!

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.

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