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

Environmental Law Institute

Beveridge & Diamond Diversity Law Clerk (Summer 2023). Washington, D.C. With generous support from Beveridge & Diamond PC, our summer law clerk program includes a funded position dedicated to students from traditionally underrepresented perspectives, including students from historically marginalized racial groups and/or economically disadvantaged communities. ELI summer law clerks, including the Beveridge & Diamond Diversity Law Clerk, work closely with ELI experts on domestic and international research projects spanning ELI’s full range of program areas. Law clerks also may assist in the editing and production of ELI publications, such as the Environmental Law Reporter. Law clerks provide crucial support for ELI projects and publications by conducting legal and policy research, analyzing environmental laws, drafting memoranda and other products, and otherwise assisting in the preparation of published materials. Application Deadline: 1/23/2023.

Attorney – Water & Oceans. Washington D.C.  ELI is seeking an experienced Attorney to work on our portfolio of uniquely positioned environmental law and policy projects addressing critical environment and sustainable development challenges domestically and internationally. It is expected that this Attorney would focus particularly (but not exclusively) on ELI’s water and ocean programs. Application Deadline: 11/21/2022.

Human Resources Director, People & Equity. Washington D.C. ELI is committed to continuously building an anti-racist culture that promotes diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in our work life. The Human Resources Director, People & Equity will center these values when implementing Human Resources (HR) systems, executing day-to-day tasks and responsibilities, and leading cultural change within the Institute. More specifically, this role will focus on talent recruitment and management and organizational culture. Application Deadline: 11/28/2022.

The Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Prosecutor Services

RFP – Special Prosecutor. Eagle Butte, SD. The CRST Prosecutor Services is seeking a Special Prosecutor to provide the following services: Serve as an administrator of justice, a zealous advocate, and an officer of the Tribal Court, and exercise sound discretion and independent judgment in the performance of this function. Seek justice within the bounds of the law, not merely to convict; serves the public interest and should act with integrity and balanced judgment to increase public safety both by pursuing appropriate criminal charges of appropriate severity, and by exercising discretion to not pursue criminal charges in appropriate circumstances. CLOSING DATE: November 30, 2022 @ 5:00 p.m. M.S.T.

The Ute Mountain Ute Tribe

Associate General Counsel. Towaoc, CO. Qualified Candidates must have at least two years of experience in the field oflndian Law and must be licensed in good standing in at least one state. The Tribe’s Associate General Counsels provide a wide range of representation in every aspect of Indian Law. Salary is competitive for the area and benefits include numerous holidays and a generous health insurance package. Submissions will be accepted until December 18, 2022.

Catawba Nation

Deputy Tribal Attorney. Rock Hill, SC. Works with other attorneys in the Nation’s Legal Department to provide legal counsel and representation to the General Council, Executive Committee, the Nation’s departments, commissions, boards, and other entities as required to carry out the business of the Tribal Government and achieve the Nation’s overall objectives. A strong command of Federal Indian Law, Tribal Law, and Gaming Law is essential. Position closes November 11, 2022 at 5:00 pm.

Shoshone Bannock Tribes

Assistant Prosecutor. Fort Hall, ID. This position will mainly handle a criminal caseload, but will cover other matters when needed. The Tribes offer a fantastic benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision. A Tribal Job application, with associated documentation, must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on November 18, 2022.

The Mohegan Tribe

Attorney. Uncasville, CT. This position reports to the Deputy Attorney General and provides legal advice to the Mohegan Tribe, its departments, agencies, and enterprises on a wide range of legal matters, including corporate finance and business issues affecting the Mohegan Tribe and its business enterprises. The closing date is Wednesday, November 16, 2022.

Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes

Entry Level Prosecuting Attorney. Pablo, MT. The primary responsibility for the Entry Level Prosecuting Attorney will be reviewing reports and drafting complaints. This position also includes communicating with federal, state, and local government agencies in regards to Tribal Court matters. The attorney will present cases before Tribal Court, and, if required, may present cases in front of other jurisdictions. This position is to be advertised until it is filled.

Rothstein Donatelli

Associate Attorney. Santa Fe, NM & Tempe, AZ. The Santa Fe, New Mexico and Tempe, Arizona offices of Rothstein Donatelli, LLP are each seeking a litigation associate for their Indian law practice.  Rothstein Donatelli has offices in Santa Fe and Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Tempe, Arizona. The Indian law practice in Santa Fe specializes in federal Indian law, including gaming, economic development, water rights, land rights, civil litigation, and transactional matters. Tempe specializes in federal Indian law, including gaming, economic development, Indian Child Welfare Act, Indian health law, labor and employment law, and transactional matters. Rothstein Donatelli is committed to advancing the sovereign rights of Native American tribes. Open until filled.

California Tribal Families Coalition 

2023 Summer Law Clerk. Sacramento, CA/Remote. The California Tribal Families Coalition (CTFC) is a nonprofit social welfare membership organization that is led by a Board of Directors comprised of elected tribal leaders. The mission of CTFC is to promote the health, safety and welfare of tribal children and families, which are inherent tribal governmental functions and are at the core of tribal sovereignty and tribal governance. CTFC provides an opportunity for summer law clerks with demonstrated interest in Indian law and/or social welfare law and policy. Clerkships will be primarily remote but may include an opportunity to meet in-person in Northern California with the CTFC team. The application deadline is November 6, 2022.

Colorado Legal Services

Executive Director. Boston, MA. Lead and advance the mission of this renowned statewide nonprofit civil legal aid organization. The mission of CLS is to provide meaningful access to high quality, civil legal services in the pursuit of justice for as many low-income persons and members of vulnerable populations throughout Colorado as possible. With an annual budget of approximately $13 million, CLS provides excellent legal service to as many as possible of the almost 1.4 million Coloradans who qualify financially for its services.  Priority is given to those in greatest social and economic need. CLS serves the entirety of the 104,000-square-mile State of Colorado (the eighth largest state geographically in the country) through 13 regional offices. CLS currently has a staff of 150, including 80 attorneys and 55 paralegals, who are supported by administrative, financial, grant management and technology personnel. Apply by November 18.

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.

Administrative Legal Secretary (Water Rights Unit). Window Rock, AZ.  Under general supervision of the AAG of the Water Rights Unit, this position serves as the Office Manager of the Water Rights Unit and performs and/or oversees highly specialized day to day operations and administrative office duties, to include: budget, other financial and contract responsibilities; filing and maintenance of court documents and legal files; management and distribution of legal publications; maintaining office equipment and the assigned Tribal vehicle.  Duties also include: receive and distribute incoming mail; maintain internal calendar of attorney related meetings/appointments; prepare travel authorizations and accommodations; assist with the preparation of required reports for submission to the OAG, WRC, NNC, or OPVP; participate in the development of the annual WRU/WRC specific budget and monitors expenditures; schedules meetings, conferences, conference calls and other appointments; and prepare agendas and meeting materials.  This position is open until November 7, 2022 by 5:00 p.m.

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. Transcribes hearings, depositions, and minutes for use by attorneys. Develops and maintains case files for the Water Rights Unit. Prepares and/or assists with travel arrangements and required and related travel documents for Unit staff. Assists with administrative duties of other NNDOJ Units when assigned. Participates in general building maintenance in partnership with other NNDOJ Units. This position is open until December 01, 2022 by 5:00 p.m.

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.

Prosecutor. Window Rock, 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

Department of Agriculture Office of the General Counsel

GS-11 Attorney Advisor. Washington D.C. The incumbent serves as an attorney providing legal advice, research, analysis and interpretation of federal, state and local laws, as well as oral and written opinions, memoranda, pleadings, briefs and legal support of all USDA programs and litigation and performs other legal services as assigned. Closing date: 11/07/2022.

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians

Law Clerk. Cherokee, NC. Law school graduate who assists the Tribal Court in researching issues and drafting court and administrative documents, and ordinances and regulations.  The Law Clerk performs others duties as assigned by the Chief Justice, Chief Judge, or Associate Judge(s). Position is open until filled.

Lower Brule Sioux Tribal Court

Prosecutor.  Lower Brule, SD. The prosecutor is responsible for the prosecution of crimes that occur with the jurisdiction of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe, including juvenile delinquency cases, child abuse/neglect and status offenses.

Colville Tribal Federal Corporation

Corporate Counsel. Omak, WA. The Corporate Counsel reports to the CTFC Board of Directors with day-to-day supervision from the CTFC Chief Executive Officer (CEO).  The Corporate Counsel works with the CTFC CEO and Executive team providing legal services, representation and advice on legal issues confronting the corporation within the scope established by law. Open until filled with first review on November 1, 2022.

Environmental Law Institute

Senior Manager, Attorney Training. Washington D.C. As a part of ELI’s Education team, the Senior Manager of Attorney Training’s primary objective is to help develop and deliver programs for members consistent with ELI’s mission, with a focus on developing ELI’s Annual Boot Camps and CLE events. Associated tasks involve tracking current events and legal policies relevant to environmental law and policy, as well as developing concepts and write-ups for trainings, master classes, programs, major conferences, and cosponsored conferences. Application Deadline: 11/6/2022.

Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Sex Crimes Assistant Prosecuting Attorney. Durant, OK. Responsible for prosecuting criminal, juvenile, quasi-civil, wildlife, traffic and deprived actions on behalf of the Choctaw Nation as assigned by the Lead Tribal Prosecutor. Closing Date: 11/10/2022.

Southern Ute Indian Tribe

Tribal Attorney – Legislative Specialist. Ignacio, CO. The primary responsibility of the Tribal Attorney – Legislative Specialist is to review, revise, and draft the Tribe’s codes and ordinances.  This attorney will develop a plan for regular review of all tribal codes and will develop and establish a process for code prioritization and revision. The Legislative Specialist will also be responsible for maintaining the Tribe’s official code. The person in this position will work with the other attorneys in the Tribe’s growing in-house Legal Department. Requires a minimum of three years of full-time experience practicing law, including significant experience drafting codes, statutes, or ordinances. Position closes December 1, 2022, 5:00 pm MST.

Tribal Attorney. Ignacio, CO. This position works with other attorneys in the Tribe’s in-house Legal Department to provide legal representation, advice, and support to Tribal Council, Tribal officials, and Tribal Departments on a broad range of subjects. A strong command of Federal Indian law and understanding of tribal sovereignty in this position is essential, as is an ability to provide legal advice on a variety of topics in a fast-paced environment. A Tribal Attorney’s primary responsibilities include: (1) Advising on questions that require understanding of, or ability to efficiently research, a broad array of subjects. (2) Drafting Tribal policies, procedures, and resolutions; comment letters on legislation impacting the Tribe; intergovernmental agreements; letters to government officials; and testimony for federal and state governmental hearings. (3) Reviewing routine legal documents.

Alaska Legal Services Corporation

Native Law Staff Attorney. Fairbanks, AK. The Fairbanks attorney will be expected to manage a caseload of state court child in need of aid cases, in addition to some civil and Native law matters. The attorney will also have the opportunity to participate in strategic coordination with state-wide teams, and participate in appellate and impact litigation. A successful applicant will have a background in communicating and interacting effectively in cross-cultural situa­tions, and a commitment to race equity work. Open untiled filled.

Native Law Staff Attorney. Anchorage, AK. 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. Open until filled.

Native American Rights Fund

Technical Services Librarian. Boulder CO. The Technical Services Librarian is responsible for providing general library and technical services functions that support the mission of the National Indian Law Library (NILL), which supports the legal work of the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) and the Indian law information needs of the general public. Open until filled.

Cowlitz Tribe

Tribal Court Judge. Ridgefield, WA. Appointed by the Cowlitz Tribal Council, serves as the chief judicial officer for the Cowlitz Tribal Court system. Hears and decides judicial matters within the jurisdiction of the Cowlitz Tribal Court system in a fair and impartial manner and pursuant to the laws of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. Accomplishes the Court’s strategic objectives by overseeing Tribal Court staff and all operations of the Tribal Court system. Honors and represents the mission, vision, values of CIT and Tribal Courts. Open until filled.

Fort Lewis College

Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science, School of Culture and Environment. Durango, CO/ The teaching load will include undergraduate and graduate courses in public affairs, including courses such as institutions, policy making, justice, and data management and analysis. This position builds on the strengths of a growing area of interest and importance at Fort Lewis College. Application materials received by October 23, 2022, will receive full consideration. The position will remain open until filled.

California Tribal Families Coalition 

2023 Summer Law Clerk. Sacramento, CA/Remote. The 2023 Summer Clerkships are paid positions dependent on resources and experience. Clerkships are flexible but must be no less than 10 weeks between May 15, 2023, and September 8, 2023. Law clerks work 32 hours per week. CTFC may also support clerks seeking class credit for externships. Candidates are preferably rising 3Ls, however, rising 2Ls with relevant experience prior to or while in law school will be considered. The application deadline is November 6, 2022.

California Indian Legal Services

Staff Attorney. Sacramento, CA. Assist in taking on a variety of federal Indian law and Tribal law matters including but not limited to estate planning for trust lands, dependency and conservatorship matters, code drafting, conducting Tribal government elections, community education, and more. Position open until filled.

Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation

Supreme Court Law Clerk. Supreme Court of the Navajo Nation. Window Rock, AZ. This position analyzes 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.  This position closes October 31, 2022.

Court Solicitor. Administrative Office of the Courts. 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. This position closed October 31, 2022.

Judicial Hearing Officer, Shiprock Judicial District. Shiprock, N.M. Under supervision of the Chief Justice, exercises authority to preside over hearings and dispositions involving the Domestic Abuse Protection Act and Álchíní Bi Beehaz’áannii Act occurring within the respective jurisdiction of the District Courts of the Navajo Nation; performs related work as assigned. The JHO will engage in legal research and writing in child welfare, domestic abuse, temporary minor or adult guardianship, child custody and other family matters. One Year Grant Funded with Benefits. This position is open until filled.

Staff Attorney, Aneth Judicial District, Aneth, UT. This position provides complex legal advice and guidance, conducts legal research, and drafts legal documents in support of judges and other court staff. This position is open until filled.

Staff Attorney, Chinle Judicial District. Chinle, AZ. This position provides complex legal advice and guidance, conducts legal research, and drafts legal documents in support of judges and other court staff. This position is open until filled.

Staff Attorney, Kayenta Judicial District. Kayenta, AZ. This position provides complex legal advice and guidance, conducts legal research, and drafts legal documents in support of judges and other court staff. This position is open until filled.

District Court Judge, Judicial District Court. Navajo Nation Wide. The District Court Judge is responsible in presiding over civil, criminal and family court cases; provides policy direction and guidance in the operation of the Judicial District.  This position is open until filled. 

Anishinabe Legal Services

Staff Attorney. Cass Lake and Ogema, MN. Provide civil legal assistance and court representation to program clients before area Tribal Courts, State Courts, and Administrative Forums.  One position will be housed out of our Leech Lake Reservation office in Cass Lake, and the other out of our White Earth Reservation office in Ogema.  This position will be open until filled.

Office of Legal Counsel

RFB – Legal Aid Services Attorney. NE Oregon in one of the following counties: Umatilla, Gilliam, Morrow, Wallowa or Union. 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. Bids are accepted on a routine basis.

Judicare Legal Aid

Staff Attorney. Wausau, WI.: (1) Maintain caseload on behalf of Native American clients in both civil and criminal matters in tribal court or arising under federal or tribal law. Civil case areas include Indian Child Welfare (ICW), custody/placement, guardian ad litem (GAL), divorce, estate planning; (2) Educate and serve Native Americans statewide on areas of civil and criminal law; (3) Participate in tribal court development, code drafting and community education projects; and (4) Carry out training and back-up assistance to private attorneys. Open until filled.

The Capacity Building Center for Tribes

Tribal Child Welfare and Permanency Planning Specialist. Remote. This position is a full time, exempt position responsible for a range of duties involving the delivery of capacity building services for Tribal child welfare systems. The responsibilities of the Tribal Child Welfare and Permanency Planning Specialist includes working with federal partners and CBCT teams to build supports and improvements for tribes receiving Title IV- b and Title IV-e funding. This position is collaborative in nature, and work is provided as a part of the Tailored Service Area of the CBCT. This position will remain open until filled.

Berkey Williams LLP

Indian Law Fellowship 2023. Davis, CA. Fellows typically engage in legal research and writing, historical research, communication with the firm’s clients, litigation, and legislative advocacy, depending on client needs and the Fellow’s interests. Closing date: October 28, 2022.

Michigan State University College of Law

Assistant/Associate Professor Tenure System. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law invites applications for full-time, entry-level, tenure-track faculty positions. Curricular needs include contracts and commercial law, family law, health care law and policy with an emphasis on inequities in public and private health care systems, race and the law, criminal law, trusts and estates, international law, and constitutional law. Open until filled.

Associate Professor – Tenure System. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law invites applications from entry-level or lateral candidates for the inaugural 1855 Professorship in the Law of Democracy. This full-time, tenure-system position will focus on legal inequities in the democratic process. Open until filled.

Assistant/Associate/Full Professor Tenure System. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law seeks entry-level and lateral candidates with research and teaching interests related to Federal Indian Law, Tribal Law, or the International Human Rights of Indigenous Peoples who will also affiliate with the Law College’s Indigenous Law and Policy Center. Open until filled.

Specialist – Teacher-Fixed Term. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law Special Projects Coordinator will teach in the Global Food Law Program, develop new areas of curricular needs, recruit instructors and an advisory board, develop a web blog and social media outreach plan, assist Advancement with fund-raising efforts as needed, and oversee the application for a partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. 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.

Senior Programs and Projects Specialist. Window Rock, AZ.  Under the supervision of the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General will provide high level assistance to the Office of the Attorney General/Department of Justice (DOJ) with program/project management related to DOJ’s work with Fiscal Recovery Funds (FRF) matters. Assists in analyzing, developing, and achieving short and long term goals and objectives; establishes performance criteria; and plans, evaluates and improves program delivery; Attends a variety of meetings related to FRF/ARPA; assists OAG with preparation for meetings and events; coordinates program activities and communications with other Navajo Nation offices and the general public. Administers FRF funding for DOJ in compliance with FRF and American Rescue Plan Act requirements, policies and procedures under federal and Navajo Nation law. Assists in development of budget. Assists with procurement of goods and services pertaining to DOJ’s FRF-related work; reviews contracts; troubleshoots issues with procurement and vendors; monitors expenditures; prepares funding reports.  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.

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 October 21,2022 at 5:00 p.m.

Legal Secretary (Water Rights Unit). Window Rock, AZ. 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. Transcribes hearings, depositions, and minutes for use by attorneys. Develops and maintains case files for the Water Rights Unit. Prepares and/or assists with travel arrangements and required and related travel documents for Unit staff. Assists with administrative duties of other NNDOJ Units when assigned. Participates in general building maintenance in partnership with other NNDOJ Units. Other duties as assigned. This position is open until October 21,2022 at 5:00 p.m.

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.

Attorney, (Human Services and Government Unit). Window Rock, AZ. 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 October 28, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.

Attorney, (Human Services and Government Unit). Window Rock, AZ. 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 October 28, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.

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.

Prosecutor. Window Rock, 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.

Prosecutor. Window Rock, AZ.  Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code; reviews citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; interviews witnesses, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; gathers and compiles evidence; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case. Prepares and presents criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; performs extensive legal research.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until 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 Hopi Tribe

Deputy General Counsel. Kykotsmovi, AZ. The Deputy provides legal advice to the Hopi Tribal Council, its Committees, Officials and Programs and Departments. The position requires the ability to analyze legal issues and provide that analysis to decision makers.  It will also involve the development of tribal codes on a wide variety of subject matter areas. Further, the position may have litigation requirements within tribal, state and federal courts. The position is open until filled.

Chief Prosecutor. Keams Canyon, AZ. The position includes administrative responsibilities and staff supervision.  The position interacts with law enforcement, the tribal court, the tribal council, and federal and state authorities. The position is open until filled.

Deputy Prosecutor. Keams Canyon, AZ. This position is a prosecutorial position that include acting as the tribe’s attorney in child welfare matters before the tribal courts.  The position interacts with law enforcement, the tribal court, the tribal council, and federal and state authorities. The position is open until filled.

University of Arizona College of Law

Administrative Associate. Tucson, Arizona. This position will assist with recruiting prospective students and program partners, arranging and preparing logistics for meetings, conferences, and appointments for IPLP faculty and staff and IPLP sponsored events. Other duties include providing guidance on policies, practices, and procedures regarding enrollment management and course registration, assisting with website development and maintenance, and creating and distributing IPLP promotional materials through social media platforms. Applicants are accepted on a rolling basis.

The Evergreen State College

Master of Public Administration, Tribal Governance Concentration. Olympia, WA.  The primary responsibility for this position is teaching courses in Evergreen’s MPA program’s tribal governance cohort which include core courses in the MPA curriculum (Context of Public Administration; Doing Democratic Public Administration; Policy, Finance, and Budgeting for Public Administration; Analytical Techniques for Public Service; and Capstone) and teach concentration courses (Path to Sovereignty, Intergovernmental Relations, Tribal Organizations, Tribal Economics, and Tribal Policy). We seek a candidate with broad knowledge of and professional experience in public administration and tribal governance. Review of applications begins October 17, 2022.

Rosette, LLP.

Associate Attorney. Tempe AZ.  Strong research and writing skills required.  Experience in Federal Indian Law is preferred but not required.  Juris Doctor and an Arizona bar license are required. Open until filled.

Law Clerk. Washington, DC.  Strong research and writing skills are required   Remote working options for this position will be considered. Open until filled.

The University of Montana

Dean of the Alexander Blewett III School of Law. Missoula, MT. Reporting directly to the Provost and Executive Vice President, the dean is the chief academic and administrative officer for the Blewett School of Law. The dean is responsible for administering the school’s departments and programs, including maintaining accreditation by the American Bar Association (ABA) and the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA), developing and implementing strategies to enhance academic innovation and quality, recruiting students and members of the faculty and staff, and managing organizational and financial structures that promote excellence in teaching, research, and service.  The dean will maintain and build upon relationships with the legal and public administration and policy communities in the state of Montana and greater region. Closing Date: October 28, 2022.

Colin Bradley Law, PLLC

Paralegal. Phoenix, AZ. The Paralegal will assist with client contact, communication with other law firms, scheduling, reviewing, writing, preparing exhibits, organizing files, filing documents, and preparing correspondence. Closing date: Until filled.

Earthjustice

Executive Assistant, Litigation Programs. Washington, DC. The position provides a broad range of administrative support to two Vice Presidents of Litigation – the Vice President of Healthy Communities and the Vice President of Litigation Practice – through communications, facilitation of workflow, schedule and travel management, budget tracking, and meeting planning.  The primary responsibilities of this role are to act as a seamless extension of the VPs by providing effective executive support to each individually and by working collectively to provide program support to their teams. Interested applicants should submit via Jobvite by October 23.

Litigation/Legal Practice Assistant, Gulf Regional Office. Houston, TX. The Litigation / Legal Practice Assistant is an exciting opportunity for a creative administrator to use their skills, the power of law, and the strength of partnership to help deliver meaningful results for the Gulf region. This position is located in Houston but supports the litigation and administrative work throughout the Gulf region. Interested applicants should submit via Jobvite by October 30.

Rothstein Donatelli, LLP

Associate Attorney. Santa Fe, NM & Tempe, AZ. Indian law practice in Santa Fe specializes in federal Indian law, including gaming, economic development, water rights, land rights, civil litigation, and transactional matters. Tempe specializes in federal Indian law, including gaming, economic development, Indian Child Welfare Act, Indian health law, labor and employment law, and transactional matters. Open until filled.

The Puyallup Tribe

RFP. Tacoma, WA. Seeking proposals for two (2) additional attorneys to provide civil legal aid services to its members. Representation may include those pertaining to general family law, guardianship, orders of protection, landlord tenant issues, and advocacy or assistance in fee to trust property or probate and more. Proposals to be submitted by Thursday, December 15, 2022, but may fill earlier with the right candidates.

The Circle Law Group, P.C.

Attorney. Sacramento, CA. The Circle Law Group is a leading majority-Indian owned law firm representing tribal governments and tribal businesses located in Sacramento, California. Our dynamic approach and practice area diversity is unparalleled for a firm our size.  We specialize in the field of tribal, state and federal law and its application to tribes, tribal businesses, government negotiations, financial transactions, tribal housing, land use and planning, human resource management, tribal energy development and representation related to internal tribal governance matters.  We represent tribes and tribal businesses across the state of California and western states. A qualified attorney candidate may work in the Sacramento office or in a hybrid mode. Open until filled.

Washington State University

Assistant Professor. Pullman, WA. Developing and maintaining a productive program of scholarship (which may be multi-disciplinary, appear in non-traditional or specialized venues, share authorship with non-academic or community partners, or speak to teaching), seeking appropriate grant funding, mentoring graduate student research, teaching graduate and undergraduate courses on topics in the law, policy and Native American/Indigenous studies, collaborating with members of other departments and programs (e.g., WSU’s Center for Native American Research and Collaboration (CNRC); https://native.wsu.edu/cnrc/), and participating in meaningful community engagement.

Michigan State University College of Law

Assistant/Associate Professor Tenure System. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law invites applications for full-time, entry-level, tenure-track faculty positions. Curricular needs include contracts and commercial law, family law, health care law and policy with an emphasis on inequities in public and private health care systems, race and the law, criminal law, trusts and estates, international law, and constitutional law. Open until filled.

Associate Professor – Tenure System. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law invites applications from entry-level or lateral candidates for the inaugural 1855 Professorship in the Law of Democracy. This full-time, tenure-system position will focus on legal inequities in the democratic process. Open until filled.

Assistant/Associate/Full Professor Tenure System. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law seeks entry-level and lateral candidates with research and teaching interests related to Federal Indian Law, Tribal Law, or the International Human Rights of Indigenous Peoples who will also affiliate with the Law College’s Indigenous Law and Policy Center. Open until filled.

Specialist – Teacher-Fixed Term. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law Special Projects Coordinator will teach in the Global Food Law Program, develop new areas of curricular needs, recruit instructors and an advisory board, develop a web blog and social media outreach plan, assist Advancement with fund-raising efforts as needed, and oversee the application for a partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Open until filled.

Senior Director of Development / Development Officer III/S. East Lansing, MI. Michigan State University College of Law seeks an accomplished, strategically minded, results-oriented development professional to serve as Senior Director of Development. In partnership with a dynamic dean, the Senior Director will plan, implement, lead, and provide strategic direction to a program that includes major gift fundraising, leadership annual giving and alumni engagement. The deadline to apply is Sunday, October 9, 2022.

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.

Senior Programs and Projects Specialist. Window Rock, AZ.  Under the supervision of the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General will provide high level assistance to the Office of the Attorney General/Department of Justice (DOJ) with program/project management related to DOJ’s work with Fiscal Recovery Funds (FRF) matters. Assists in analyzing, developing, and achieving short and long term goals and objectives; establishes performance criteria; and plans, evaluates and improves program delivery; Attends a variety of meetings related to FRF/ARPA; assists OAG with preparation for meetings and events; coordinates program activities and communications with other Navajo Nation offices and the general public. Administers FRF funding for DOJ in compliance with FRF and American Rescue Plan Act requirements, policies and procedures under federal and Navajo Nation law. Assists in development of budget. Assists with procurement of goods and services pertaining to DOJ’s FRF-related work; reviews contracts; troubleshoots issues with procurement and vendors; monitors expenditures; prepares funding reports.  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.

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.

Prosecutor. Window Rock, 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.

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

Nevada Legal Services

Legal Secretary. Statewide, offices in Reno, Las Vegas, Carson City, Elko and Yerington, Nevada. Ability to file legal documents in court and converse with court personnel. Perform outreach and communicate with community partners as needed. Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team. Ability to work independently, handle changes or unexpected events, and establish cordial working relationships with courts and administrative personnel, coworkers, service providers, and clients. 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.

Big Fire Law & Policy Group LLP

Employment Law Attorney. Omaha, NE.  Seeking candidates with at least 5 years of Employment Law experience to join our Firm. The right candidate will have the opportunity to work on cases in a variety of areas including wrongful termination, discrimination and wage and hour matters, workers compensation, contracts, harassment claims, advising on HR policies, and compliance with the law relating to the formation and cessation of employee relationships. Open until filled.

Navajo Tribal Unity Authority

Associate Attorney. Fort Defiance, AZ. Provides legal guidance and advice involving various areas of law. 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 legal documents. Writes, develops and recommends company policy. Negotiates, prepares, and manages contracts related to construction projects, purchase power, finance, joint ventures and related utility service agreements. Performs other duties as assigned. Position is Open Until Filled.

Judicial Legal Aid

Staff Attorney. Wausau, WI. Maintain caseload on behalf of Native American clients in both civil and criminal matters in tribal court or arising under federal or tribal law. Civil case areas include Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), custody/placement, guardian ad litem (GAL), divorce, and estate planning; Educate and serve Native Americans statewide on areas of civil and criminal law; Participate in tribal court development, code drafting, and community education projects; and carry out training and back-up assistance to private attorneys. Open until filled.

Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Trust Services

Directorate of Environmental and Natural Resources Management. Lakewood, CO; Boise, ID; Albuquerque, NM. The Directorate ensures that appropriate measures and compliance are designed and implemented to improve land, wildlife, fire management, climate resilience, environmental, cultural and natural resources with proper relation between policy and operational activities. Closing Date: 10/23/2022.

Columbia Riverkeeper

Policy Director. Portland, OR, or Hood River, OR. This is a leadership position at an inclusive, effective, place-based organization. The right person would ideally have some legislative experience, a familiarity with clean water and clean energy issues in the Northwest, and experience working with or for Tribes. Closing date: October 20, 2022.

Berkey Williams LLP

Of Counsel. Davis, CA. Advocate for clients in a variety of practice areas, including ICWA, employment, healthcare, natural and cultural resource protection, land rights and acquisitions, water rights, and governance.  Includes drafting tribal codes, policies, and ordinances; litigation in state, federal and tribal courts; advocacy before administrative and legislative bodies; and conducting trainings on various topics for tribal leadership. Closing date October 14, 2022.

The Department of the Treasury’s Office of Tax Policy

Attorney-Advisor. Washington D.C. TLC attorney-advisors enjoy the privilege of shaping domestic tax matters (other than employee benefits, employment tax, and pension matters) with their experiences and perspectives as they consult with colleagues in the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to develop regulations and other administrative guidance under the Internal Revenue Code and offer their technical expertise to Congressional staff drafting tax legislation. Closing Date: October 3, 2022.

United States District Court, Western District of Washington

Social Security Law Clerk. Seattle, WA or Tacoma, WA. The law clerk in this position will work for the court on Social Security appeals and will perform legal research, draft reports and recommendations, proposed orders, and orders in consent cases. Open until filled.

Fort Lewis College

Assistant Professor of Political Science (tenure-track). Durango, CO. The primary responsibility for this position is teaching courses on constitutional law and criminal justice, and we strongly prefer candidates with experience and expertise regarding tribal law, tribal sovereignty, federal Indian law, and related topics. All applications received by October 16, 2022.

American Civil Liberties Union

Staff Attorney – Indigenous Justice, Racial Justice Program. New York, NY. Responsible for advancing multi-pronged strategies using litigation, legislative and policy advocacy, and public education to further RJP’s Indigenous Justice work, as well as the other programmatic priority areas described above. We welcome applications from both seasoned lawyers and junior attorneys who are seeking to develop and establish an expertise and leadership role in the field of Indigenous Justice. Open until filled.

The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians

RFP – Native American Graphic Designer. Remote. The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians is soliciting RFPs for proposals from qualified individuals to provide Native American Graphic Design for the Front-Page of Citizen and Legislative Newsletters. Closing time for receipt: October 14, 2022.

Michigan State University College of Law

Assistant/Associate Professor Tenure System. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law invites applications for full-time, entry-level, tenure-track faculty positions. Curricular needs include contracts and commercial law, family law, health care law and policy with an emphasis on inequities in public and private health care systems, race and the law, criminal law, trusts and estates, international law, and constitutional law. Open until filled.

Associate Professor – Tenure System. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law invites applications from entry-level or lateral candidates for the inaugural 1855 Professorship in the Law of Democracy. This full-time, tenure-system position will focus on legal inequities in the democratic process. Open until filled.

Assistant/Associate/Full Professor Tenure System. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law seeks entry-level and lateral candidates with research and teaching interests related to Federal Indian Law, Tribal Law, or the International Human Rights of Indigenous Peoples who will also affiliate with the Law College’s Indigenous Law and Policy Center. Open until filled.

Specialist – Teacher-Fixed Term. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law Special Projects Coordinator will teach in the Global Food Law Program, develop new areas of curricular needs, recruit instructors and an advisory board, develop a web blog and social media outreach plan, assist Advancement with fund-raising efforts as needed, and oversee the application for a partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Open until filled.

Senior Director of Development / Development Officer III/S. East Lansing, MI. Michigan State University College of Law seeks an accomplished, strategically minded, results-oriented development professional to serve as Senior Director of Development. In partnership with a dynamic dean, the Senior Director will plan, implement, lead, and provide strategic direction to a program that includes major gift fundraising, leadership annual giving and alumni engagement. The deadline to apply is Sunday, October 9, 2022.

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.

Senior Programs and Projects Specialist. Window Rock, AZ.  Under the supervision of the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General will provide high level assistance to the Office of the Attorney General/Department of Justice (DOJ) with program/project management related to DOJ’s work with Fiscal Recovery Funds (FRF) matters. Assists in analyzing, developing, and achieving short and long term goals and objectives; establishes performance criteria; and plans, evaluates and improves program delivery; Attends a variety of meetings related to FRF/ARPA; assists OAG with preparation for meetings and events; coordinates program activities and communications with other Navajo Nation offices and the general public. Administers FRF funding for DOJ in compliance with FRF and American Rescue Plan Act requirements, policies and procedures under federal and Navajo Nation law. Assists in development of budget. Assists with procurement of goods and services pertaining to DOJ’s FRF-related work; reviews contracts; troubleshoots issues with procurement and vendors; monitors expenditures; prepares funding reports.  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.

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.

Prosecutor. Window Rock, 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.

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

Environmental Law Institute

Administrative Associate, Research & Policy. Washington D.C. Help fulfill our mission of fostering innovative and practical law and policy solutions to enable leaders across borders and sectors to make environmental, economic, and social progress. Application Deadline: 10/21/2022.

Tohono O’odham Judicial Court

Judge. Sells, AZ. A judge of the Tohono O’odham Nation shall have the duties and powers of the office in accordance with Article VIII of the Constitution of the Tohono O’odham Nation, including but not limited to (1) Hearing and determining, when assigned by the chief judge or the deputy chief judge, any matter arising under the laws and Constitution of the Tohono O’odham Nation and entering an order or judgment in favor of a party and (2) Presiding over criminal cases, including jury or bench trials. Closing Date: Open Until Filled.

National Congress of American Indians and NCAI Fund

General Counsel. Washington, DC. NCAI is a leader in policy surrounding issues that impact tribal governments and individual Indians. The organization provides essential information and education on key policy initiatives, enhances coordination and consultation with tribal governments, and leads efforts to unite tribal advocates to promote progressive, proactive Indian policy. This role includes providing legal counsel to the executive director, board of directors, and other senior management. This position is open until filled.

Department of the Interior, Office of the Secretary of the Interior

Program Manager (Senior BSI Project Manager). Remote. Serves as the expert staff authority, principal coordinator, and primary contact for the Boarding School Initiative (BSI) Management. While not a supervisor, provides general oversight of personnel assigned to support the project and coordinates functional leads on all project-related tasks and deliverables to meet timelines and ensure accuracy. Closing date: October 9, 2022.

Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation

Lead Attorney. Pendleton, OR. The position requires a mix of litigation, advising, negotiation, government-to-government consultation, legislative, and executive-level acuity and experience. The CTUIR is a self-governance tribe directly carrying out BIA and IHS functions pursuant to ISDEAA compacts. Open until filled.

The Federal Public Defender for the District of New Mexico

Assistant Federal Public Defender. Las Cruces, NM. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: managing an extensive caseload, developing litigation strategies, preparing pleadings, appearing in court at all stages of litigation, and meeting with clients, experts, witnesses, family members and others. Applicants must possess strong oral and written advocacy skills, have the ability to build and maintain meaningful attorney-client relationships, be team oriented but function independently in a large, busy office setting, and communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, colleagues, staff, the court and other agency personnel. Applications must be received by November 14, 2022.

Office of the Attorney General for the 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 closes 09/26/2022.

Yurok Tribe Office of the Tribal Attorney

Justice Policy Lead. Klamath, CA. Under the general supervision of the Prosecutor, the Justice Policy Lead will provide advocacy, legislative analysis, coalition-building and policy research around issues related to ending violence against Indigenous persons in Tribal communities, the ongoing Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons crisis, assertion of Special Domestic Violence Criminal Jurisdiction, sovereignty issues related to Public Law 280 and/or the need to access systems to protect tribal sovereignty/members, and will serve as a liaison between the Office of the Tribal Prosecutor and elected member(s) of county, state or federal governmental agencies/bodies, advocacy organizations, and relevant departments of the Yurok Tribe. Applications closing October 21, 2022.

The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians

RFP – Healthcare Compliance Consultation. Remote. Closing time for receipt: October 7th, 2022.

Homer Law Chartered

Associate Attorney. Washington, DC. Legal research and writing; Assisting with administrative hearings; Drafting regulations, policies, and procedures; Assisting with development of fee-to-trust applications; Advising on matters of compliance with federal and tribal laws and regulations; Reviewing contracts related to economic development matters; Tracking developments in case law, proposed rulemaking, and administrative policy related to tribal governments and/or federal Indian law and policy; and Responding to proposed rulemakings via the formal commenting process. Closing Date: Until filled.

Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation Tribal Court

Chief Judge. Fountain Hills, AZ. Presides over criminal, civil and juvenile cases. Performs duties require the individual to exercise considerable independent judgement in managing the docket, ruling on motions and adjudicatory cases, conduct hearing and decide cases in a fair and impartial manner to the end of administering justice and maintaining the order of law. The Chief Judge is responsible for fairly and impartially hearing and deciding judicial matters within the jurisdiction of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation Tribal Court pursuant the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation Constitution, laws, ordinances and regulations, and applicable federal laws. Closing date: October 3, 2022.

Greater Yellowstone Coalition

Wind River Conservation Organizer. Ft. Washakie, WY. Greater Yellowstone Coalition (GYC) seeks a Wind River Conservation Organizer to play a key role in major campaigns to protect the lands, waters, and wildlife of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE). The GYE is a remarkable natural landscape: home to a complete array of native wildlife, the headwaters of the west, an important place in the history of conservation, and of deep importance to Native Americans who have made this place home since time immemorial. The Wind River Conservation Organizer will work to build local capacity and to conserve the lands, waters, and wildlife on and around the Wind River Indian Reservation (WRIR) within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Closing date open until filled, applicants will be reviewed beginning October 3, 2022.

Michigan State University College of Law

Professional Aide. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law seeks a temporary, full-time professional aide to work in the Dean’s Suite. This position will provide support for special projects related to our accrediting agency as well as special projects from the Dean’s Office. Deadline to apply is October 7, 2022.

Assistant/Associate Professor Tenure System. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law invites applications for full-time, entry-level, tenure-track faculty positions. Curricular needs include contracts and commercial law, family law, health care law and policy with an emphasis on inequities in public and private health care systems, race and the law, criminal law, trusts and estates, international law, and constitutional law. Open until filled.

Associate Professor – Tenure System. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law invites applications from entry-level or lateral candidates for the inaugural 1855 Professorship in the Law of Democracy. This full-time, tenure-system position will focus on legal inequities in the democratic process. Open until filled.

Assistant/Associate/Full Professor Tenure System. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law seeks entry-level and lateral candidates with research and teaching interests related to Federal Indian Law, Tribal Law, or the International Human Rights of Indigenous Peoples who will also affiliate with the Law College’s Indigenous Law and Policy Center. Open until filled.

Specialist – Teacher-Fixed Term. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law Special Projects Coordinator will teach in the Global Food Law Program, develop new areas of curricular needs, recruit instructors and an advisory board, develop a web blog and social media outreach plan, assist Advancement with fund-raising efforts as needed, and oversee the application for a partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. 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.

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.

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.

Senior Programs and Projects Specialist. Window Rock, AZ.  Under the supervision of the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General will provide high level assistance to the Office of the Attorney General/Department of Justice (DOJ) with program/project management related to DOJ’s work with Fiscal Recovery Funds (FRF) matters. Assists in analyzing, developing, and achieving short and long term goals and objectives; establishes performance criteria; and plans, evaluates and improves program delivery; Attends a variety of meetings related to FRF/ARPA; assists OAG with preparation for meetings and events; coordinates program activities and communications with other Navajo Nation offices and the general public. Administers FRF funding for DOJ in compliance with FRF and American Rescue Plan Act requirements, policies and procedures under federal and Navajo Nation law. Assists in development of budget. Assists with procurement of goods and services pertaining to DOJ’s FRF-related work; reviews contracts; troubleshoots issues with procurement and vendors; monitors expenditures; prepares funding reports.  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.

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.

Prosecutor. Window Rock, 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.

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

Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians

Probation Officer/Specialty Court Coordinator. Harbor Springs, MI. The LTBB Tribal Court is looking for a person with a probation officer background who wants to do more than compliance, but who instead wants to help people change their lives for the better. The Specialty Court Coordinator does this by running the Tribal Court’s Specialty Court programs and probation program. Open until filled.

Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate-Tribal Court

Tribal Prosecutor. Agency Village, SD. It is the duty of the Prosecutor, among others, to administer justice, and catTies the responsibility that defendants are accorded procedural justice and that guilt is decided upon the basis of sufficient evidence as required by the Law and Order Code of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate. The Prosecutor is responsible for the prosecution of all crimes that occur within the jurisdiction of the Lake Traverse Reservation, prosecute all juvenile cases including but not limited to child abuse, neglect, dependency, unruly and delinquent cases. Open until filled.

University of Oklahoma College of Law

Eugene Kuntz Chair in Oil, Gas, and Natural Resources. Norman, OK. The Eugene Kuntz Chair is named after an OU professor who achieved legendary status in the field of oil and gas law. Funding for the Kuntz Chair is provided by gifts from former students, friends, and the family of Eugene Kuntz. OU, with support from the Kuntz Chair endowment, offers a competitive salary plus significant support for research and travel. Open until filled.

Menominee Indian Tribe

Assistant Tribal Attorney. Keshena, WI. The Assistant Tribal Attorney (ATA) shall work under and at the direction of the Director of Legal Division-Tribal Attorney (DLD-TA). The ATA will represent the interests of the Menominee Tribal Government, the Menominee Tribal Administration, the Menominee Tribal programs and other Menominee Tribal government/programmatic interests as directed by the DLD-TA. Closing date: October 28, 2022.

Children’s Code Prosecutor. Keshena, WI. Under the direction and supervision of the Legal Division Director, the purpose of the position is to manage the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin’s Chapter 278 Children’s Code caseload and provide senior level leadership in the development of Title IV-E program in relation to Tribal Government practices. Closing date: September 30, 2022.

Big Fire Law and Policy Group

Tribal Government Attorney. Winnebago, NE.  Seeking candidates with at least 5 years of tribal government experience to join our Firm. The right candidate will provide guidance to Tribes and tribal entities on a variety of matters including agreements and contracts, advising on impact of pending legislation, drafting ordinances, advising on policies and procedures, guidance on land management, and provide in-person support as needed during Tribal Council, committee, and other meetings.  

Associate Attorney – Economic Development and Cannabis. Omaha, NE.  Seeking candidates with a minimum of 3 years of economic development and cannabis experience to join our Firm. The right candidate will have the opportunity to work on cases in a variety of areas including entity formation, governance, tax exemption and compliance, formation of commercial agreements, loan documents, and development of programs to assist community economic opportunities. This position also includes navigating legal processes, regulations, and compliance within the cannabis industry.

Litigation Attorney. Omaha, NE.  Seeking candidates with 5-10 years of litigation experience to join our metropolitan Omaha, Nebraska office (remote possible). The right candidate will have the opportunity to work on cases in a variety of areas including constitutional law, environmental law, real estate, employment, tax issues, corporate/business matters, and complex federal, state and tribal court litigation at both trial and appellate levels.

Policy Attorney/Lobbyist. Washington D.C.  Seeking candidates with 3-5 years of policy and advocacy experience with tribal governments to join our Washington D.C. office.  The right candidate will have a significant history working with tribal communities, Capitol Hill, or regulatory agency experience and demonstrate excellent communications skills. This position is responsible to track and monitor key developments at the White House, in Congress and at federal agencies; attend and summarize Congressional hearings and press events; schedule and attend Congressional meetings and coordinate and prepare materials for those meetings. 

The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Tribe

Chief Judge. Palm Springs, CA. Under direction of Tribal Council, the Chief Judge is responsible for presiding over and adjudicating a variety of judicial matters within the jurisdiction of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians (ACBCI/Tribe), while protecting and enhancing the Tribe’s sovereignty. In addition, the Chief Judge is responsible for the overall development, management and success of the ACBCI Tribal Court. Closing date: 10/31/2022 or until filled.

Office of the Federal Defender – District of New Mexico

CJA Administrative Assistant. Las Cruces, NM. Works closely with the Courts, the Federal Public Defender and the Defender Services Office to improve the quality of representation and the efficient management of the CJA Panel. In this position, the assistant will work closely with the CJA Resource Counsel primarily in managing panel appointments and processing payment vouchers. Applications must be received by September 26, 2022.

Judicare Legal Aid

Staff attorney – Indian Law Office. Wausau, WI. Maintain caseload on behalf of Native American clients in both civil and criminal matters in tribal court or arising under federal or tribal law. Civil case areas include Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), custody/placement, guardian ad litem (GAL), divorce, and estate planning. Educate and serve Native Americans statewide on areas of civil and criminal law. Participate in tribal court development, code drafting, and community education projects. Carry out training and back-up assistance to private attorneys. Closing Date: Until Position is Filled.

Maier Pfeffer Kim Geary & Cohen LLP

Summer Law Clerk. Oakland, CA. Applicants must be enrolled in an ABA accredited law school.  Experience or coursework in tribal and Federal Indian Law is strongly preferred.  Applicants must also possess excellent analytical, research and communication skills, and the ability to work independently and as a team member in a fast-paced and fun environment. Applications due: November 4, 2022.

California Indian Legal Services

Staff Attorney. Sacramento, CA. Supervised by the Directing Attorney, the Staff Attorney will work collaboratively with other staff to provide exceptional legal services in all areas of federal Indian law. The Staff Attorney will assume a varied case load. Staff Attorney client development responsibilities include developing and maintaining effective relationships with tribes and Indian organizations in the service territory, including all funding sources, and ensuring that the office pursues and secures meaningful opportunities to work with tribes, Indian organizations, and Indian individuals throughout the service territory. Open until filled.

Squaxin Island Tribe

Legal Director. Shelton/Olympia, WA. Provides day to day administration of the department including policy development, facilitation, and implementation of programs assigned to the department on an on-going or temporary basis. Open until filled.

Southern Ute Indian Tribe

Tribal Attorney. Ignacio, CO. A strong command of Federal Indian law and understanding of tribal sovereignty in this position is essential, as is an ability to provide legal advice on a variety of topics in a fast-paced environment. This position requires a minimum of three years of full-time experience practicing law, including significant Indian law experience. The deadline for applications is 5:00 MDT on October 3, 2022.

Department of Agriculture Office of the General Counsel

Supervisory General Attorney. Any OGC location. Provide legal counsel on a broad range of tribal and Native American law issues across all mission areas for the Department. Coordinate with client agency leadership on tribal and Native American law issues. Work collaboratively with OGC regional and headquarters staff attorneys in seeking solutions to Native American legal issues. Coordinate with legal counsel for other federal agencies and executive leadership regarding tribal and Native American law issues involving USDA. Supervise staff attorneys engaged in legal work associated with Forest Service and Natural Resource Conservation Service programs. Draft and review legal documents involving tribal and Native American programs. Assist with training others within the Department on Native American law issues. Assist with legislative drafting and review of legislative proposals. Closing date: September 21, 2022.

Earthjustice

Associate Attorney – Climate & Energy. Washington D.C. or New York, NY. Earthjustice seeks an Associate Attorney to join our team focusing on advocacy and litigation before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and other federal agencies and in the courts to stop a buildout of new gas infrastructure projects. The position will be based preferably in our New York or Washington, D.C. offices, although applicants seeking to work in other locations where Earthjustice has an office will also be considered. Closing date: Sept 25, 2022.

Deputy Managing Attorney. Denver, CO. Join our team of lawyers and advocates working to eliminate the U.S.’s dependence on coal-fired power generation by 2030, decrease the impact of fossil-fueled power generation on the health and well-being of local communities, and to halt a growing rush to gas-fired generation and promote clean energy in its stead. Open until filled.

Michigan State University College of Law

Professional Aide. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law seeks a temporary, full-time professional aide to work in the Dean’s Suite. This position will provide support for special projects related to our accrediting agency as well as special projects from the Dean’s Office. Deadline to apply is October 7, 2022.

Assistant/Associate Professor Tenure System. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law invites applications for full-time, entry-level, tenure-track faculty positions. Curricular needs include contracts and commercial law, family law, health care law and policy with an emphasis on inequities in public and private health care systems, race and the law, criminal law, trusts and estates, international law, and constitutional law. Open until filled.

Associate Professor – Tenure System. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law invites applications from entry-level or lateral candidates for the inaugural 1855 Professorship in the Law of Democracy. This full-time, tenure-system position will focus on legal inequities in the democratic process. Open until filled.

Assistant/Associate/Full Professor Tenure System. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law seeks entry-level and lateral candidates with research and teaching interests related to Federal Indian Law, Tribal Law, or the International Human Rights of Indigenous Peoples who will also affiliate with the Law College’s Indigenous Law and Policy Center. Open until filled.

Specialist – Teacher-Fixed Term. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law Special Projects Coordinator will teach in the Global Food Law Program, develop new areas of curricular needs, recruit instructors and an advisory board, develop a web blog and social media outreach plan, assist Advancement with fund-raising efforts as needed, and oversee the application for a partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Open until filled.

Senior Director of Development/Development Officer III/S. East Lansing, MI. Michigan State University College of Law seeks an accomplished, strategically minded, results-oriented development professional to serve as Senior Director of Development. In partnership with a dynamic dean, the Senior Director will plan, implement, lead and provide strategic direction to a program that includes major gift fundraising, leadership annual giving and alumni engagement. Deadline to apply is September 22, 2022.

Office of the Attorney General for the 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 closes 09/26/2022.

St. Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin

Staff Attorney. Webster, WI. Position is responsible to assist the Tribal Court with legal research, drafting of opinions, collaborating with the Office of General Counsel on projects, code writing/revision, and will assist with the daily Tribal Court operations. Closing date – Until filled.

Fort Berthold Housing Authority

RFP – Administrative Law Judge. New Town, ND. Preside over FBHA OEH eviction proceedings, issue subpoenas, review all pleadings submitted prior to the hearing, research and analyze laws, regulations, policies, and precedential decisions to prepare for hearings and to determine conclusions, explain the procedures for the eviction hearing to the parties before beginning the proceeding, ensure that due process is afforded all parties, render a written decision within seven (7) working days of the hearing date, make a decision based solely on the evidence that is admitted in the case, maintain the confidentiality of all information and documents obtained in the course of proceedings, provide written recommendations for improvement of the functioning of the OEH Office to the FBHA Board of Commissioners. Open until filled.

Public Health Law Center

Executive Director. Saint Paul, MN. Will have a unique opportunity to advance the work of the Center. With a staff of 35, the Center is poised for a significant period of growth. While the Center is physically based in Saint Paul, Minnesota, the Executive Director will be able to perform their duties remotely within the continental United States. The next Executive Director will be joining a fiscally sound organization with reliable funding relationships and a deeply credible reputation across the field of public health law and policy. Open until filled.

University of Wisconsin – The Great Lakes Indigenous Law Center

Director. Madison, WI. The directorship can either be more academic (and tenured or tenure-track), or more teaching-focused (with an emphasis on professional training in U.S. Indian Law for law students). Please see the link for more information. Closing date: open till filled, with the last full consideration date of October 9, 2022.

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.

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.

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.

Senior Programs and Projects Specialist. Window Rock, AZ.  Under the supervision of the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General will provide high level assistance to the Office of the Attorney General/Department of Justice (DOJ) with program/project management related to DOJ’s work with Fiscal Recovery Funds (FRF) matters. Assists in analyzing, developing, and achieving short and long term goals and objectives; establishes performance criteria; and plans, evaluates and improves program delivery; Attends a variety of meetings related to FRF/ARPA; assists OAG with preparation for meetings and events; coordinates program activities and communications with other Navajo Nation offices and the general public. Administers FRF funding for DOJ in compliance with FRF and American Rescue Plan Act requirements, policies and procedures under federal and Navajo Nation law. Assists in development of budget. Assists with procurement of goods and services pertaining to DOJ’s FRF-related work; reviews contracts; troubleshoots issues with procurement and vendors; monitors expenditures; prepares funding reports.  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.

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.

Prosecutor. Window Rock, 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.

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

Squaxin Island Tribe

Legal Director. Shelton/Olympia WA. Provides day to day administration of the department including policy development, facilitation, and implementation of programs assigned to the department on an on-going or temporary basis. Closing Date: Open until filled.

Rosette, LLP

Litigation Paralegal. Tempe, AZ. Will be responsible for assisting attorneys in preparing court filings; reviewing, preparing, and editing legal documents, reports and presentations; and drafting legal and business correspondence. Closing date: open until filled.

Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe

Respondent Parents Counsel. Onamia, MN. Contracted attorney to provide legal representation predominantly by remote means for respondent parents/guardians/custodians participating in the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Family Healing to Wellness Court. Services to be performed include informing prospective applicants of Wellness Court program benefits & requirements, preparing petitions for admission, and representing participants in team staffings and status hearings. Closing date for proposals is October 3, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. (CST).

The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians

RFP. Seeking proposals from Native American Digital Artists interested in creating Custom Pidro Card Illustrations/Graphics. Closing time for receipt: September 30th, 2022.

Oglala Sioux Tribe Legal Department

In-House Counsel. Pine Ridge, SD. Will work for the OST Council, the OST Standing Committees (Executive, Youth Affairs, Law and Order, Finance, Health and Human Services, Education, Land, Economic Business and Development). Attorneys shall be seated at 2 of the 6 standing committees and will rotate between the Executive and Youth Affairs Committee. Closing Date: December 2, 2022.

RFP. Seeking proposals from qualified individuals and legal entities interested in providing Special Counsel Legal Services. Closing date: December 2, 2022, at 4:00 p.m. MST.

Stockbridge-Munsee Community

Tribal Staff Attorney. Bowler, WI. This attorney will provide a wide range of legal services for the Community with an emphasis on contract drafting and review for tribal government departments and tribal business entities and legal research. This attorney will also work with Employment Law issues, and collections/garnishments with occasional court appearances as required.

Department of Agriculture (USDA), Office of the General Counsel (OGC)

GS-15 Supervisory General Attorney – Indian Law (Deputy Assistant General Counsel). Multiple OGC Office Locations TBD after selection. Provide legal counsel on a broad range of tribal and Native American law issues across all mission areas for the Department. Supervise staff attorneys engaged in legal work associated with Forest Service and Natural Resource Conservation Service programs. Closing date: 9/21/2022.

The Evergreen State College

Master of Public Administration, Tribal Governance Concentration – Regular Faculty Member (Full-time). Olympia, WA. Teach courses primarily in the Evergreen MPA program’s tribal governance cohort, which include core courses in the MPA curriculum and teach concentration courses. The teaching load is one core course (6 credits) plus one concentration or elective course (4 credits) in each of the three quarters of the academic year. Closing Date: Review of completed applications begins 10/17/2022.

Federal Public Defender District of New Mexico

Assistant Computer Systems Administrator. Albuquerque, NM. Providing assistance to and receiving technical guidance from the Computer Systems Administrator (CSA); providing specialized and routine user support services including training, resolving hardware, software, peripheral equipment, and data communications systems problems; assisting with the installation, testing and user training on new and updated computer equipment and software; tracing and identifying sources of system failures and errors; security monitoring; perform systems maintenance activities; conducting audits and evaluation of automated systems and existing software applications; assisting staff attorneys and investigators with the preparation of matters for trial using PC-based automation applications, and other types of litigation support. Applications must be received by October 17, 2022.

Legal Assistant. Albuquerque, NM. Performs the functions of a Legal Assistant to Assistant Defenders utilizing advanced knowledge of legal terminology, Word and information processing software. Understands district and circuit court rules and protocols. Edits and proofreads initial drafts, transcribes dictation, performs cite checking and assembles copies with attachments for filing and mailing. Responsible for electronic filing of pleadings. Screens incoming mail and handles some routine matters as authorized. Prepares memoranda for signature by the Assistant Defender(s). Maintains calendars for the Assistant Defender(s), setting appointments as authorized. Organizes case files for Assistant Defender(s) and is responsible for other case management functions as assigned. Applications must be received by October 17, 2022.

Michigan Indian Legal Services

Attorney. Traverse City, MI. The focus of this position will be providing telephonic advice to individuals in the Native American communities throughout the state and some litigation in the tribal courts located in Michigan. 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.

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.

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.

Senior Programs and Projects Specialist. Window Rock, AZ.  Under the supervision of the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General will provide high level assistance to the Office of the Attorney General/Department of Justice (DOJ) with program/project management related to DOJ’s work with Fiscal Recovery Funds (FRF) matters. Assists in analyzing, developing, and achieving short and long term goals and objectives; establishes performance criteria; and plans, evaluates and improves program delivery; Attends a variety of meetings related to FRF/ARPA; assists OAG with preparation for meetings and events; coordinates program activities and communications with other Navajo Nation offices and the general public. Administers FRF funding for DOJ in compliance with FRF and American Rescue Plan Act requirements, policies and procedures under federal and Navajo Nation law. Assists in development of budget. Assists with procurement of goods and services pertaining to DOJ’s FRF-related work; reviews contracts; troubleshoots issues with procurement and vendors; monitors expenditures; prepares funding reports.  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.

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. Assists in routine operations of Department of Justice.  This position is open until September 9, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.

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.

Prosecutor. Window Rock, 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.

Prosecutor. Window Rock, AZ.  Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code; reviews citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; interviews witnesses, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; gathers and compiles evidence; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case. Prepares and presents criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; performs extensive legal research.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until 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 Hopi Tribe

Deputy General Counsel. Kykotsmovi, AZ. Performs a variety of legal tasks as inhouse counsel for an Indian Tribe. Closing Date: Open Until Filled.

Deputy Prosecutor. Keams Canyon, AZ. To prosecute adult and juvenile suspects for violations of the Tribal Code.  Additionally, the Deputy prosecutor may handle tribal dependency matters. Closing Date: Open Until Filled.

Chief Prosecutor. Keams Canyon, AZ. The Prosecutor is the both the administrator of the office of Prosecutor as well as an active member of the prosecutorial team prosecuting suspects for violations of the tribal code. Additionally, the prosecutor handles juvenile and tribal dependency matters. Closing Date: Open Until Filled.

Ziontz Chestnut

Entry-level Associate Attorney Fall 2023. Seattle, WA. The duties include assisting our experienced attorneys on current legal matters including, but not limited to, legal research and writing, litigation, regulatory/administrative and transactional matters. Applications close September 30, 2022.

Grand Canyon Trust

Director of People and Organizational Culture – HR. AZ, UT, CO, or NM with preference for proximity to Flagstaff, AZ. Ability to travel at least once a month to Flagstaff. Leadership and Strategy (Approximately 15%). Organizational Culture and Employee Experience (Approximately 30%). Recruitment and Retention (Approximately 25%). Policies, Procedures, and Operations (Approximately 15%). Learning, Professional Development, and Performance (Approximately 10%). Additional/Other (5%). Closing Date: End of September – Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Pueblo of Pojoaque

General Counsel. Santa Fe, NM. The Legal Department is the principle legal counsel of the Pueblo of Pojoaque and provides professional legal counsel and representation to the Pueblo and all Pueblo owned entities as specified by the Tribal Council. Closing Date: Open until filled

The Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis

Senior Policy Analyst – Center for Indian Country Development. Minneapolis, MN. Lead public policy efforts that increase tribal economic mobility and advance the CICD’s objectives. Communicate with and build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders throughout Indian Country, with national partners, and with key policymakers. Work with members of the CICD research and engagement teams and lead an Indian Country policy portfolio.

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians

Legislative Financial Director – Tribal Council. Cherokee, NC. Provides oversight support to the Tribal Council related to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) financial and budgetary matters, as well as monitoring and reporting of the EBCI’s appropriation legislation. Performs other appropriation duties supporting the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians’ Legislative Branch’s goals and objectives. Establishes and maintains a daily/monthly reporting mechanism to update the Tribal Council on all pertinent aspects involving financial accounts.  Monitors all funding requests and tracks general fund of the EBCI. Monitors the adherence to all boards, committees, and commissions and reports to the governing body of the EBCI.  Identifies any noncompliance and maintains a record of monthly/quarterly reports and meetings regarding financial contracts awarded to any person, firm or outside entity of the EBCI. Closing date: Application is open until filled.

Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi

Staff Attorney. Fulton, MI. Researches and drafts resolutions, Tribal laws, regulations, and policies for Tribal Council approval. Provides timely legal advice/counsel to, and draft legal opinions for, the Tribal Council and other subdivisions. Prepares legal memoranda and conducts legal research as directed. Develops and implements policies and procedures. Works with Department Leaders to create policies/procedures and compose resolutions for Tribal Council. Research legal questions as requested or presented by the Tribal Council or other Tribal government entities. Represents NHBP in Tribal court, and before quasi-judicial or administrative agencies of government. Interprets laws, rulings, and regulations for the Tribal Council and other Tribal government entities. Maintains current, accurate and complete records as required by federal, state and all regulatory agencies. Closing Date: September 30, 2022, at 9:30 a.m.

San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

SVP Accounting. Highland, CA. Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the Senior Vice President, Accounting is responsible for overseeing enterprise accounting activities and functions, including accounting, audits, internal financial controls, and effectively managing significant interactions and communications with other enterprise financial functions. This includes oversight of areas such as financial reporting, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and fixed assets. This position will require ability to develop and lead the implementation of best-in-class processes and systems to achieve continuous improvement goals throughout the organization. This position is also responsible for establishing the overall direction and strategic initiatives for the accounting team. Closing Date: Open Until Filled.

Director Accounting & Finance, Casino. Highland, CA. The Director of Casino Accounting reports to the Vice President of Accounting & Finance and is responsible for revenue audit, collections, and general accounting functions within Casino Accounting. The Director of Accounting & Finance develops and maintains policies and procedures to ensure accurate recording, verifying, allocating and posting of revenue transactions in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and established policies and procedures. The Director of Accounting & Finance helps to develop strategies for a multitude of accounting activities including revenue reconciliations, budgeting, financial statement preparation, audit preparation, and the oversight of the department’s compliance with Nation Indian Gaming Commission’s Minimum Internal Control Standard (NIGC’s MICS) and the San Manuel Gaming Commission Regulations (GCR) requirements. Closing Date: Open Until Filled.

Executive Program Manager – Legal. Highland, CA. Under the direction of the Chief Legal & Compliance Officer (CLCO), the Manager of Executive Programs is responsible for the professional support and administration of the CLCO’s executive project portfolio. The Manager of Executive Programs works with senior leadership to document the Legal, Enterprise Risk Management, Information Security and Enterprise Legal Compliance departments’ strategic initiatives and projects. This position performs continuous monitoring and reporting on initiative/project status, and contributes to communications with Tribal leadership, executives, project sponsors and team members. This position also provides exclusive project support to the CLCO while managing other administrative roles within the department. Closing Date: Open Until Filled.

VP Associate General Counsel – Transactions. Highland, CA. The VP, Associate General Counsel –Transactions provides these services to San Manuel Band of Mission Indians (SMBMI) and its affiliates within the areas of their responsibility, including overseeing strategic legal direction on major complex transactional activities of the SMBMI and its affiliates. The VP, Associate General Counsel –Transactions also oversees the delivery of strategic legal support to the SMBMI in the areas of mergers and acquisitions, finance, investments, corporate development, corporate governance, taxation, intellectual property, contracting and other procurement-related, activities, and information technology. Closing Date: Open Until Filled.

Legal Operations Manager. Highland, CA. Under the direction of Director, Legal Operations, the Legal Operations Manager plays a key role in identifying, designing, implementing and reinforcing the processes and systems that are critical to the Legal department. The Legal Operations Manager uses Lean for Law techniques to ensure that the department is efficient and provides stellar services to internal and external customers. This position is responsible for the day-to-day operational management of new and existing legal service intake, legal technology systems, legal service provider/vendor management, e-billing and financial management, matter lifecycle management, legal data base management, litigation support, and data analytics and reporting. Closing Date: Open Until Filled.

Catawba Nation

Fall 2022 Legal Internship. Remote. Interns will assist the Nation’s Legal Department by researching pertinent issues and drafting ordinances, memoranda, and policies. The application deadline is September 5, 2022.

Michigan State University

College of Law Director of Admissions. East Lansing, MI. The Director of Admissions and Financial Aid will play a key role in matriculating a highly talented, inclusive incoming class from across the nation. The Director will possess outstanding public speaking skills, knowledge of best practices for outreach, recruitment, marketing, communications, student financial support, equity, inclusion and yield activities, as well as strong data analysis and managerial skill. Applications close: September 11, 2022.

Specialist – Outreach-Continuing. East Lansing, MI. The College of Law Admissions Office seeks candidates to fill the Director of Pipeline Programming, Outreach and Education position. The Director will lead the development and implementation of pre-law and pipeline programming as part of the commitment to expanding access to legal education, growing the diversity of the legal profession and expanding legal services provided to Michigan’s diverse communities. The Director will have outstanding interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills, curriculum development experience, expertise with pre-law and pipeline programming in legal education and the ability to work collaboratively with the Dean, faculty, senior staff, students, and external partners to coordinate their participation. Applications close: September 5, 2022.

Tenure Faculty Member. East Lansing, MI. Expertise in the Law of Democracy whose teaching, research, outreach, and public engagement addresses structural inequities that affect U.S. democratic process.

Tenure Faculty Member. East Lansing, MI. The holder of the Shaefer Chair will provide intellectual leadership and programmatic oversight for the law college matrimonial and family law programs, and will actively promote, facilitate, and participate in collaborative activities with other Michigan State colleges, schools, and departments including social work, family and child ecology, and communications and dispute resolution.

Research Writing and Advocacy Professor. East Lansing, MI. Will teach in the first-year legal writing and advocacy program. Writing professors typically teach two sections of legal writing each semester. However, professors may have the opportunity to teach other courses depending on interest and the law college’s needs. Writing professors participate fully in the law college. They attend faculty meetings and participate in faculty governance, may receive summer research stipends, attend conferences, and employ student evaluators and research assistants.

Tenure Faculty Member. East Lansing, MI. Indigenous Law and Policy Center (ILPC) and College of Law seek entry-level and lateral candidates for full-time, tenure system faculty positions with research and teaching interests related to federal Indian law, tribal law, or the international human rights of Indigenous peoples.

The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation

RFB Attorney Legal Aid Services. Seeks bids from attorneys qualified and available to advise, and if needed represent eligible CTUIR member in private legal aid matters described in Attachment A. The CTUIR anticipates entering into multiple legal aid service contracts for direct legal services to tribal members between 126% and 210% of the federal poverty guidelines. The contracts would have no guaranteed minimum hours, but rather establish the compensation rate and reimbursement for allowable expenses in the event an attorney agrees to represent a referred client needing legal aid in eligible matters. Bids are accepted on a routine basis.

Rey-Bear McLaughlin, LLP

Of Counsel Attorney. Spokane, WA. The work will involve representation of Indian tribes and tribal enterprises regarding governmental, transactional, litigation, economic development, environmental, and natural resource matters. Prior federal Indian law experience, excellent academic and professional records, and an ability to travel are preferred. A commitment to advocacy for tribal sovereignty, strong analytic, interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills, and a license to practice law are required.

University of Wisconsin – The Great Lakes Indigenous Law Center

Director. Madison, WI. The directorship can either be more academic (and tenured or tenure-track), or more teaching-focused (with an emphasis on professional training in U.S. Indian Law for law students). Please see the link for more information. Closing date: open till filled, with the last full consideration date of October 9, 2022. 

Earthjustice

Spring 2023 Policy & Legislation Internship. Denver, CO. The Rocky Mountain Office is seeking an undergraduate student for one part- or full-time policy and legislation internship during spring 2023. This is a paid position. This is a remote role, but the successful candidate will ideally work in-person at the state capitol on occasion during significant stages of the legislative process. Closing date: September 25, 2022.

Spring 2023 Policy & Legislation Internship. Washington, D.C. Earthjustice’s Policy & Legislation team is seeking an undergraduate student in their junior or senior year for one part-time policy and legislation internship during spring 2023. This is a paid position. Closing date: September 25, 2022.

Spring 2023 Energy Market Data Analysis Internship. Remote. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”) team of Earthjustice’s Clean Energy Program is seeking an undergraduate student for one part -time energy market data analysis internship during spring 2023. This is a paid position. Closing date: September 25, 2022.

Spring 2023 Legal Internship – Sustainable Food & Farming Program. Remote. Earthjustice’s Sustainable Food & Farming Program is accepting applications for one full- or part-time legal intern for spring 2023. We are seeking current 2Ls and 3Ls who share a passion for justice and a healthy environment. This is a paid position. Closing date: September 25, 2022.

University of Idaho College of Law

Native American Law Clinic Faculty. Moscow, ID. The faculty member will directly coordinate with the UI Native American Law (“NAL”) Program Director to ensure broader programmatic support of the development and implementation of the clinic, as well as to share leadership roles in other NAL Program projects and to advance NAL Program strategic goals. Responsible for teaching an additional course in a related subject, developing mentoring relationships with students, advising students on curricular and co-curricular activities, and developing a scholarly, outreach, and engagement agenda that will enrich the community. The faculty member will also represent the law school through attendance at scholarly and clinical teaching conferences, as well as through publication in national and/or international scholarly journals, which may include interdisciplinary placements. Priority will be given to applications received by September 15, 2022.

Office of the General Counsel – U.S. Department of Agriculture

Supervisory General Attorney. Any OGC Office. The incumbent serves as Deputy Assistant General Counsel that supervise and manage the Natural Resources and Environment Division under the direct supervision of the Associate General Counsel. The Natural Resources and Environment Division provides legal services to the headquarters offices of the USDA agencies administering programs assigned to the office. Closing date: September 21, 2022.

Attorney Advisor. Any OGC Office. The incumbent serves as an attorney providing legal advice, research, analysis and interpretation of federal, state and local laws, as well as oral and written opinions, memoranda, pleadings, briefs and legal support of all USDA programs and litigation, and performs other legal services as assigned. Closing date: September 21, 2022.

Ute Mountain Ute Court of Indian Offenses

Prosecutor. Albuquerque, NM . The Prosecutor contributes to the mission of this office by assisting in the administration of judicial services within the Southwest Region’s Court of Indian Offenses. The Prosecutor serves as an agent of the U.S. Government and is the official to investigate and prosecute a variety of offenses in the Court. Additionally, the Prosecutor will have a substantial caseload of crimes occurring on property owned by or held in trust for the Ute Mountain Ute Indian Tribe. 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.

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.

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.

Senior Programs and Projects Specialist. Window Rock, AZ.  Under the supervision of the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General will provide high level assistance to the Office of the Attorney General/Department of Justice (DOJ) with program/project management related to DOJ’s work with Fiscal Recovery Funds (FRF) matters. Assists in analyzing, developing, and achieving short and long term goals and objectives; establishes performance criteria; and plans, evaluates and improves program delivery; Attends a variety of meetings related to FRF/ARPA; assists OAG with preparation for meetings and events; coordinates program activities and communications with other Navajo Nation offices and the general public. Administers FRF funding for DOJ in compliance with FRF and American Rescue Plan Act requirements, policies and procedures under federal and Navajo Nation law. Assists in development of budget. Assists with procurement of goods and services pertaining to DOJ’s FRF-related work; reviews contracts; troubleshoots issues with procurement and vendors; monitors expenditures; prepares funding reports.  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.

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. Assists in routine operations of Department of Justice.  This position is open until September 9, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.

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.

Prosecutor. Window Rock, 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.

Attorney. Window Rock, AZ.  Under supervision of the Chief Prosecutor represents the interest of the Navajo Nation government. Reviews major crimes cases investigated by the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigation and Federal Bureau of Investigation that are not prosecuted in federal court. Determines whether to recommend to the Chief Prosecutor prosecutions within a relevant Navajo Nation District Court. Considers the weight of the evidence, the importance of the case, the necessity of uniform application of law throughout the Navajo Nation, and other considerations which bear on the advisability of initiating the filing of criminal charges. Prepares memorandum of fact and law where appropriate. Initiates filing of pleadings, petitions and motions with the appropriate Navajo Nation court, prepares and tries the case.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until September 6, 2022 by 5:00 pm.

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.

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

Quinnipiac University’s School of Law

Full-Time Tenure-Track Faculty: School of Law. North Haven, CT. Quinnipiac University is looking for three entry-level tenure-track faculty members to start in the fall 2023 semester. Areas of curricular need are projected to include first-year courses in Constitutional Law, Contracts, Criminal Law, and Property. Applications are open until filled.

Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation

Prosecutor. Fort McDowell, AZ. Efficiently/effectively manages the daily activities of the Office of the Prosecutor with professional level legal knowledge and skill in representing the Nation’s interests in legal research, motion practice, court and jury trials and appeals. Closing Date: September 2, 2022.

Hobbs, Straus, Dean & Walker, LLP

2023 Associate Attorney. Washington, DC. Associate Attorney opportunity to work under the supervision of attorneys on Indian law matters. Application is open until filled.

Tulalip Tribal Court

Associate Judge. Tulalip, WA. Provide a full range of judicial services by hearing cases in the trial court. Hear scheduled cases at the Tulalip Tribal Court, using Tribes’ applicable codes and laws, adjudicating matters and entering decisions on the record. Assist the Chief Judge, Tribal Court Clerks and Court Director with effective maintenance of court records and improving court-filing procedures. Participate in trainings to improve skills applicable to the function of Judge. Abide by applicable Tribal Code governing Judicial Conduct and Authority. Applications close December 18, 2022.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – Office of the General Counsel, Natural Resources Section

Internship/Externship. Remote. They are seeking a second- or third-year law student volunteer intern or extern for a virtual internship/externship. Must be interested in working with a team of legal professionals to advise agency staff and advance the vital mission of NOAA: to conserve and manage coastal and marine resources and understand and predict changes in the Earth’s environment to meet the Nation’s economic, social, and environmental needs. Applications close September 30, 2022.

Ho-Chunk Nation Legislature

Legislative Attorney. Black River Falls, WI. Works directly with the Nation’s Legislature to assist in drafting tribal laws and regulations, while also generally providing guidance and advice to the Legislature on issues of Ho-Chunk, Federal, and State law. Attorneys for the Nation’s Legislature may also be called upon to advocate for the Nation in judicial, administrative, or ​political settings. Application is open until filled.

Galanda Broadman, PLLC

Litigation Associate. Seattle, WA. The firm seeks lawyers who are deeply committed to representing Indigenous interests, who is state bar licensed, preferably in Washington State; and who have civil litigation or a judicial clerk experience. Application is open until filled.

University of Idaho College of Law

Native American Law Clinic Faculty. Moscow, ID. The faculty member will directly coordinate with the UI Native American Law (“NAL”) Program Director to ensure broader programmatic support of the development and implementation of the clinic, as well as to share leadership roles in other NAL Program projects and to advance NAL Program strategic goals. Responsible for teaching an additional course in a related subject, developing mentoring relationships with students, advising students on curricular and co-curricular activities, and developing a scholarly, outreach, and engagement agenda that will enrich the community. The faculty member will also represent the law school through attendance at scholarly and clinical teaching conferences, as well as through publication in national and/or international scholarly journals, which may include interdisciplinary placements. Priority will be given to applications received by September 15, 2022.

Colorado River Indian Tribes

Assistant Public Defender. Parker, AZ. The Assistant Public Defender assists in the planning, administration, organization and operation of the Colorado River Indian Tribes Public Defender’s Office.  They perform research and prepare legal documents for the defender and the court. The Assistant Public Defender acts as legal counselor and informs clients about their legal rights. This position is Open Until Filled.

Paralegal. Parker, AZ. The Office of the Attorney General provides legal representation to the Colorado River Indian Tribes, its Tribal Council, departments, and enterprises. The paralegal is supervised by the Attorney General, but receives additional supervision from individual attorneys assigned to oversee and manage specific projects. The Paralegal displays the ability to work effectively with other departments, outside consultants and attorneys to ensure that projects are completed in a timely manner. The paralegal accepts and discharges responsibility and performs the legal work of the Tribes with fidelity and discretion. This position is Open Until Filled.

Deputy Attorney General. Parker, AZ. The Office of the Attorney General provides legal representation to the Colorado River Indian Tribes, its Tribal Council, departments, and enterprises. The Deputy Attorney General works with all Tribal Departments, under the supervision of the Attorney General, to act as general counsel for and on behalf of the Tribes. This position is Open Until Filled.

RFP – Hearing Officer. Parker, AZ. Looking for qualified attorneys or other legal professionals to serve a two-year appointment as a Hearing Officer for the Colorado River Indian Tribes to hear disputes related to licensing and Notices of Violation issued by the Tribal Gaming Agency. Services will be provided under a professional services agreement or letter of engagement on an as needed basis. There is no deadline for selection of an attorney/legal professional but those not selected from this RFP process will be so notified.

Red Cliff Tribal Court

Receptionist. Bayfield, Wisconsin. Primary responsibility is to greet visitors, answer telephone, route calls and take messages for all programs within the Court House which includes Tribal Attorney, Chief Judge, Associate Judge, Tribal Prosecutor, and the Clerk of Court. Maintain a clean and organized reception area. Open until filled.

Stockbridge-Munsee Community

Tribal Staff Attorney. Bowler, WI. This attorney will provide a wide range of legal services for the Community with an emphasis on contract drafting and review for tribal government departments and tribal business entities and legal research. This attorney will also work with Employment Law issues, and collections/garnishments with occasional court appearances as required.

Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians

Tribal Attorney. Peshawbestown, MI. Duties include: (1) providing advice and services related to regulatory and environmental law, tribal law, civil works planning, federal procurement law, non-contractual or contractual claims, personnel and discrimination law, litigation matters, general law and preventive law; (2) drafting resolutions, motions and ordinances for tribal law; (3) interpreting regulations, laws and policies; (4) identifying potential conflicts and issues, conducting necessary legal research, and recommending solutions; (5) reviewing, analyzing, and advising on contractual disputes, claims, appeals, and litigation, as directed by the General Counsel; and (6) serving as a trial attorney. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis

Indian Country Engagement Coordinator (Project Manager). Minneapolis, MN. Coordinates the external engagement of the Federal Reserve System’s Center for Indian Country Development, including work on a new CICD initiative to partner with tribes and the research community on collaborative data projects. Open until filled.

Intern, Center for Indian Country Development. Helene, MT. Researching and identifying key contacts in Indian Country for CICD. Supporting the planning and logistics for CICD outreach-sponsored meetings, events, and activities. Preparing presentations, graphics, and/or other media. Conducting literature reviews and other internet-based research. Contributing to or producing written memos, reports and analyses for publication on the Bank website and other venues. Conducting environmental scans to understand tribal interests and priorities to support the CICD data initiative. Supporting the CICD social media efforts. Open until filled.

Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians

Chief Financial Officer. Dowagiac, MI. Accomplish the Pokagon Band Department of Finance objectives by planning, organizing, and directing all work required to operate and maintain departmental and other Tribal enterprise activities and services. Ensure financial and accounting policies, functions, resources, and programs are maintained in accordance with established laws, regulations, policies, procedures, and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and Government Accounting Standards. Open until filled.

Pueblo of Sandia

Assistant General Counsel. Albuquerque, NM. 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. Open until filled.

U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of the Solicitor

Attorney-Advisor. Sacramento, CA.  The incumbent of this position will provide legal counsel to the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Pacific Region, on a wide range of Indian Law matters, including fee to trust, tribal government, land use authorizations, and contracting and grants.  The incumbent will also work closely with the U.S. Department of Justice to defend BIA decisions in judicial litigation, while directly handling administrative litigation before the Interior Board of Indian Appeals and other bodies. This job announcement closes on September 6, 2022.

Attorney Advisor. Tulsa, OK. This position is a BIA funded position that will only work on Indian Affairs Matters within the Eastern Oklahoma and Southern Plains BIA Regions.  Closing date 9/9/2022.

District of Montana

Assistant U.S. Attorney. Great Falls, MT. Duties include serving as the liaison between the USAO and our Tribal government and law enforcement partners. Arrange and facilitate meetings and communication between Tribal governments and the USA and senior management to collaborate on and address the issues and needs of our Tribal communities. Assist the Tribal governments as needed by providing information, training, and resources. Acting as the advisor to the USA on all Indian Country matters in the District of Montana.  Prosecution in Federal Court of Indian Country cases and serving as the Point of Contact for at least one tribe, training of tribal prosecutors, and attending Multiple Disciplinary Team and Sexual Assault Response Team meetings. This position is open until filled.

Swinomish Indian Tribal Community

Chief Judge/Court Administrator. La Conner, WA. Responsible for adjudication or other disposition of criminal, civil and juvenile matters, and for the judicial and administrative oversight of the Swinomish Tribal Court. Closing date – September 6, 2022.

Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation

Lead Attorney. Pendleton, Oregon. This full-time in-house position manages the Office of Legal Counsel for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), providing centralized legal representation, strategy, and advising to the tribal government. The position requires a mix of litigation, advising, negotiation, government-to-government consultation, legislative, and executive-level acuity and experience. First reviews of cover letters and resumes is August 5, 2022. Open until filled.  

RFB for Legal Aid Services Attorney. NE Oregon (Eligible counties include Umatilla, Gilliam, Morrow, Wallowa and Union). Seeking bids for service rates from attorneys interested in referred clients from the CTUIR Legal Aid Program. 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 attorney should be admitted to the jurisdiction applicable to the matter at hand. Bids are accepted on a routine basis.  Submit bids in PDF format to LegalCounsel@ctuir.org with the subject line: Bid – Legal Aid Services.

Alaska Legal Services

Domestic Violence Staff Attorney. Juneau, AK. Provide legal assistance to victims of domestic violence to resolve family disputes and other civil matters. The attorney will appear in state and tribal court proceedings involving family law, housing, consumer protection, public benefits, and access to health care. The attorney may also help develop new alternative dispute resolution options appropriate for trauma survivors. The position is done in partnership with the Juneau local domestic violence shelter, AWARE.

Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Nation

Tribal Prosecutor. Pablo, MT. Representing Tribal interests associated with the Tribal Prosecutors office which are routinely litigated in Criminal, Child protection, adult protection, juvenile, mental health, and Fish and Game matters. Licensed to practice, able to be licensed in the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal Court, or alternative dispute resolution forums. Closing date is Thursday, September 8, 2022, at 5:30 p.m.

Washburn University School of Law

Tenure-Track Professor of Law (SBNT Law Clinic). Topeka, KS. The appointed hire will be responsible for fulfilling teaching expectations associated with a tenured/tenure-track professor appointment, teaching a full workload as outlined in the faculty handbook. They will teach part-time in the clinic and part-time in other doctrinal courses as assigned. The appointed hire will be responsible for fulfilling scholarship expectations associated with a tenured/tenure-track professor appointment. The appointed hire will be responsible for fulfilling service expectations associated with a tenured/tenure-track professor appointment.

Tenure-Track Professor of Law (Legal Writing). Topeka, KS. The appointed hire will be responsible for fulfilling teaching expectations associated with a tenured/tenure-track professor appointment, teaching a full workload as outlined in the faculty handbook. The appointed hire will be responsible for fulfilling scholarship expectations associated with a tenured/tenure-track professor. The appointed hire will be responsible for fulfilling service expectations associated with a tenured/tenure-track professor.

Tenure-Track Professor of Law (Criminal Defense Clinic). Topeka, KS. The appointed hire will be responsible for fulfilling teaching expectations associated with a tenured/tenure-track professor appointment, teaching a full workload as outlined in the faculty handbook.  They will teach part-time in the clinic and part-time in other doctrinal courses as assigned. The appointed hire will be responsible for fulfilling scholarship expectations associated with a tenured/tenure-track professor appointment. The appointed hire will be responsible for fulfilling service expectations associated with a tenured/tenure-track professor appointment.

Catawba Nation

Fall 2022 Legal Internship. Remote. Interns will assist the Nation’s Legal Department by researching pertinent issues and drafting ordinances, memoranda, and policies. The application deadline is September 5, 2022.

Tlingit & Haida

Associate General Counsel. Juneau, AK, Anchorage, AK or Seattle, WA. Provide legal counsel and representation to the Central Council of Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska (Tlingit & Haida) in the areas of tribal government, federal-tribal relations, federal-state relations, tribal jurisdiction, environmental and natural resources law and policy, economic development, employment, contracts, code drafting and compliance. Closing Date: 9/16/2022

Child Support Attorney. Juneau, AK, Anchorage, AK or Seattle, WA. The Child Support Attorney will provide legal services and representation to Tlingit & Haida in child support cases and related matters. The incumbent will work closely with the Tribal Child Support Unit (TCSU). Closing Date: 9/9/2022.

Little River Band of Ottawa Indians

Legislative In-House Counsel. Manistee, MI. Provides legal advice, guidance, direction, and representation to the Tribal Council on a wide range of issues affecting the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians Anishnabek Nation; in regard to preparation of legislative actions, written legal opinions, research, and general support to the Tribal Council. Closing September 5, 2022.

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

Principal Tribal Court Advocatev. 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.

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.

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.

Senior Programs and Projects Specialist. Window Rock, AZ.  Under the supervision of the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General will provide high level assistance to the Office of the Attorney General/Department of Justice (DOJ) with program/project management related to DOJ’s work with Fiscal Recovery Funds (FRF) matters. Assists in analyzing, developing, and achieving short and long term goals and objectives; establishes performance criteria; and plans, evaluates and improves program delivery; Attends a variety of meetings related to FRF/ARPA; assists OAG with preparation for meetings and events; coordinates program activities and communications with other Navajo Nation offices and the general public. Administers FRF funding for DOJ in compliance with FRF and American Rescue Plan Act requirements, policies and procedures under federal and Navajo Nation law. Assists in development of budget. Assists with procurement of goods and services pertaining to DOJ’s FRF-related work; reviews contracts; troubleshoots issues with procurement and vendors; monitors expenditures; prepares funding reports.  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.

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. Assists in routine operations of Department of Justice.  This position is open until September 9, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.

Principal Attorney (Chapter 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 Review documents, such as service contracts, sub-recipient and grant agreements, legislation, proposed policies, etc., for legal sufficiency.  Participate in negotiations regarding on 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 September 21, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.

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.

Prosecutor. Window Rock, 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.

Attorney. Window Rock, AZ.  Under supervision of the Chief Prosecutor represents the interest of the Navajo Nation government. Reviews major crimes cases investigated by the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigation and Federal Bureau of Investigation that are not prosecuted in federal court. Determines whether to recommend to the Chief Prosecutor prosecutions within a relevant Navajo Nation District Court. Considers the weight of the evidence, the importance of the case, the necessity of uniform application of law throughout the Navajo Nation, and other considerations which bear on the advisability of initiating the filing of criminal charges. Prepares memorandum of fact and law where appropriate. Initiates filing of pleadings, petitions and motions with the appropriate Navajo Nation court, prepares and tries the case.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until September 6, 2022 by 5:00 pm.

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.

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

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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 Indian Law Center, Inc.

Executive Director. Albuquerque, NM. The Executive Director communicates long range vision and strategy that enables board, staff, and volunteers to fulfill the mission of the AILC; directs all operations including the Pre-Law Summer Institute (PLSI), the Southwest Intertribal Court of Appeals (SWITCA) and other training and technical support for tribal leaders and tribal courts; formulates and implements programs and policies adopted by the Board of Directors; Promotes image and reputation of the AILC. Sets strategy for fundraising and development efforts to fund AILC programs and staff salaries. Closing date is May 20, 2022. Visit the website for the full description.

Alaska Native Women’s Resource Center (AKNWRC)

Law and Policy Court and Legal Advocacy Specialist. Fairbanks, Anchorage or Juneau, AK. Position is until filled. AKNWRC seeks an organized, detail oriented and dedicated individual to fill the position of Law and Policy Court and Legal Advocacy Specialist.  Applicants must be a licensed attorney in good standing with the Alaska State Bar, or become licensed within one year of the position, and have experience working with Tribal Communities and work in public advocacy is required.  It is preferred for the applicant to have experience with domestic violence or harassment protection orders in state or tribal forums.  This person will report to the Law and Policy Director. See the position description for more information.

Shute, Mihaly & Weinberger LLP

2Ls and 3L summer and term clerkships, and recent graduates for our three-year fellowship program. The firm hires five 2Ls each year as full-time summer clerks. Applications for Summer 2023 clerkships will be considered on a rolling basis beginning in mid-July; the application deadline is September 5, 2022. The firm also hires 2Ls and 3Ls as law clerks during the academic year, with a minimum of 15 hours of work per week; though we have returned to our San Francisco offices, remote clerkships are possible. Applications are considered on a rolling basis for work during the spring and fall semesters. Finally, the firm also offers a three-year fellowship for highly qualified recent law school graduates. Fellows function as the junior associates of the firm. Applications must be submitted by September 5, 2022 for fellowships beginning in Fall 2023. Please see the position descriptions for more information and to apply.

Earthjustice

Senior Attorney, Oceans Program. Seattle, WA or Remote (US). Earthjustice is hiring a Senior Attorney to join the Oceans Program in Seattle, WA or remote. Apply By 5/23/22. See the position description for more information and to apply.

Galanda Broadman, PLLC

Paralegal Litigation Assistant. An Indigenous rights firm with nine lawyers and offices in Seattle and Yakima, Washington, and Bend, Oregon, seeks to add an experienced paralegal/litigation assistant to our growing civil rights practice in Seattle. The firm seeks an individual with solid litigation and case management experience and proven abilities under pressure, and who exhibits the following attributes: attention to detail; solid writing and organization; tech savvy; critical, proactive and creative thinking; strong work ethic; and sound ethics and morals.  The position will also support office managerial and administrative efforts. Closes: June 1, 2022 or When Filled.

Pueblo of Isleta

Paralegal. Isleta Pueblo, NM. Supports General Counsel Office with tasks, including conducting legal research, drafting, reviewing, and managing of legal documents.  Responsible for communicating with clients, preparing for hearings, trials, and meetings, and organizing and maintaining files.  Performs specialized administrative services, including but not limited to case management and budget oversight. Position Closes-05/27/2022. Apply at www.isletapueblo.com/careers.

Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation

Assistant General Counsel, Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, AZ. Under the direction of the General Counsel, Provide legal advice to the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation Tribal Council, tribal departments and economic enterprises. Represent the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation in matters brought in Tribal, State and Federal court. Closing date is May 19, 2022. To view full job description see above and  applications are available at www.fmyn.org

Public Health Law Center (affiliate of Mitchell Hamline School of Law)

Staff Attorney/Senior Staff Attorney. Saint Paul, MN. The Public Health Law Center (or, The Center), a dynamic, public interest affiliate of Mitchell Hamline School of Law, is seeking a Staff Attorney who has a passion for working for the social good and who shares our commitment to continued learning on issues related to racial and social justice, including the social determinants of health, implicit bias, and systemic oppression. The Staff Attorney/Senior Staff Attorney will support our Health Eating and Active Living Programs. To apply for the Staff Attorney/Senior Staff Attorney (Health Eating and Active Living Programs) position, click here. Application review will begin on May 16, 2022 and will continue until the position is filled. See the position description for more information.

Lower Elwha Tribal Court

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

Sonosky, Chambers, Sachse, Endreson & Perry LLP

2023 Summer Associate. Washington, D.C.; San Diego, CA; Anchorage, AK; and Juneau, AK.Under the supervision of an attorney, the summer associate performs duties such as cite checking, editing attorney work, conducting legal research, and drafting memoranda.  Summer associates may also have the opportunity to attend and take notes on government briefings and hearings on tribal issues. Closing date: June 30, 2022. Link to Firm: www.Sonosky.com/careers.

Full Time Experienced Attorney. Albuquerque, NM. Experienced Attorney (5 or more years) in litigation, transactional, water, natural resources or Indian law matters. Duties may include legal research; drafting pleadings and other written advocacy; oral advocacy; providing advice to clients; drafting and revising contracts and related documents; and meeting with clients. Application is open until filled. Link to Firm: www.Sonosky.com/careers.

Full Time Associate Attorney. San Diego, CA. Main duties include legal research; drafting pleadings and other written advocacy; oral advocacy; providing advice to clients; drafting and revision contracts and related documents; and meeting with clients. Application is open until filled. Link to Firm: www.Sonosky.com/careers

The Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas

Protective Services Attorney. Contract & remote. Protective Services Attorney will 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). Department: Prosecutor’s Office. Reports to: General Counsel. Overtime: Exempt. Salary: DOE. To apply please contact Cristina Collett Jensen at (830) 421-5389 or via Email: cristina.collett@ktttribe.org. Please see the position description for more information.

Region 6, Office of Regional Counsel, Department of Regional Counsel

Attorney Adviser. Dallas, TX. A 2-year full-time fellowship focusing on air counseling and grants. Applications close May 20, 2022. See the position description for more information.

Office of the Secretary of the Interior

Infrastructure and Economic Development Coordinator.  Washington, DC. 1) Assists with development of policies, standards, procedures, and directives related to program functions and requirements, to include initiating and directing research projects necessary to resolve complex or technical issues; 2) Coordinates work activities, assignments, and projects with managers internal to the  Office of Indian Economic Development (OIED) and across the Federal programs implementing infrastructure projects and economic development to ensure their understanding and the effective completion of initiatives and requirements; 3) As the OIED Interagency Coordinator, the incumbent works closely with the Indian Affairs bureaus and offices to guide and coordinate Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) implementation and related economic development strategies and policy initiatives; 4) Initiates report’s, position papers and memoranda regarding proposed policy and program changes affecting Indian Affairs interagency programs related to BIL implementation, including interdepartmental matters, proposed regulations and policies, legislative proposals, and stakeholder initiatives; 5) Contributes to the management and coordination of projects for the OIED Director by researching, writing/editing, collaborating on, and performing the initial review of time-sensitive information, correspondence, papers, policy, and briefing materials in response to taskings and action items from internal and external sources.  Closing Date: 05/12/2022.  Additional details: https://go.usa.gov/xuvvX.

Legal Services of South-Central Michigan

Staff Attorney. Lansing, MI. This position is part of the Crime Victims Legal Assistance Project (CVLAP), a partnership with Legal Services of Eastern Michigan, Legal Aid of Western Michigan, Legal Services of South Central Michigan, Legal Services of Northern Michigan, and Lakeshore Legal Aid to provide outreach and a wide range of legal representation and advocacy to victims of crime, primarily domestic violence and elder abuse survivors, under the federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA). CVLAP is a statewide program with attorneys throughout Michigan.

Native American Rights Fund

Two (2) Staff Attorney Positions. Boulder, Colorado Office or Washington, D.C. Office. The Native American Rights Fund is a non-profit national Indian law firm representing Indian tribes, organizations, and individuals in Indian law matters of major significance. NARF’s main office is in Boulder, Colorado, with additional offices in Washington, D.C. and Anchorage, Alaska. NARF is looking for an experienced attorney with excellent research, writing, and advocacy skills to assume a litigation docket. Open until filled, with interviews beginning late May. See the position description for more information.

Reno-Sparks Indian Colony

Tribal Prosecutor. Reno, NV. Closing date: Open until filled. Performs a variety of professional legal work; develops, prepares and presents cases requiring court and/or administrative tribunal appearances; trial and/or administrative tribunal and/or appellate work; represents the Colony in criminal or enforcement proceedings; and performs related work as required. Ensures the proper maintenance of prosecution records and compliance with Tribal, State, and National regulations and guidelines. Additionally, ensures all prosecution records comply with the guidelines regarding confidentiality and security of sensitive documents. Other duties as assigned. For more information, please see the job description.  Applications can be found online at https://www.rsic.org/   Submit completed applications to bsmithpeger@rsic.org and esanchez@rsic.org.

The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi

Staff Attorney – Full Time Exempt. Tribal Government. Fulton, MI. Attend meetings of the Tribal Council, Committees, regulatory board/commissions and Membership meetings as requested. Researches and drafts resolutions, Tribal laws, regulations, and policies for Tribal Council approval. Provides timely legal advice/counsel to, and draft legal opinions for, the Tribal Council and other subdivisions and instrumentalities of the Tribal government on a broad range of legal issues. For a full description please see the position. Posting Ends 06/02/2022 at 9:30 AM ET. Apply through the NHBP Careers page.

Department of the Interior, Office of the Solicitor, Division of Indian Affairs

Attorney-Adviser. Washington, D.C.  The attorney will provide legal counsel to the Bureau of Indian Education, including on all elements of federal Indian law, federal education law, and administrative law (funding, rulemaking, etc.).  The position closes on May 23, 2022.

Pueblo of Laguna

Associate Prosecutor; Dept: Pueblo Courts / Prosecutor’s Office; Closing date for application submission – May 23, 2022. Please visit the Pueblo of Laguna website for more information and application instructions at www.lagunapueblo-nsn.gov or you can contact the Human Resources office at (505) 552-6654. See the position description for more information.

The National Council of Urban Indian Health

Director of Congressional Relations. Reporting to the Vice President of Public Policy, the Director of Congressional Relations will have both internal and external facing responsibilities to advance the mission of NCUIH through excellence in policy, advocacy, outreach, technical assistance, research projects and related programs. The Director of Congressional Relations must have a strong understanding of health care delivery, the federal trust relationship as well as the legal, policy and political frameworks impacting the IHS system.

Policy Analyst. The Policy Analyst has both internal and external facing responsibilities grounded in serving Urban Indian Organizations (health care providers to American Indians and Alaska Natives in urban areas) to advance the mission of NCUIH through excellence in policy, advocacy, outreach, technical assistance, discrete research projects and related programs.

Tribal Law & Policy Institute

Tribal Wellness Court Specialist. Remote/Telework. Develop customized technical assistance plans to meet the specific needs of Tribal Healing to Wellness Courts; Provide expert onsite and offsite assistance to tribal justice systems, including but not limited to Healing to Wellness Courts seeking to plan, implement, or enhance their programs; Plan, implement, and oversee peer-to-peer tribal healing to wellness court mentor court program; Plans and presents educational workshops for Tribal nations and organizations on issues pertaining to tribal justice. See job announcement for a full list of duties. Closing date: May 31, 2022 or until filled.

Program Assistant. Remote (Oklahoma City, OK; Twin Cities, MN; Albuquerque, NM; Los Angeles, CA preferred – applicants from other locations will be considered). The Program Assistant is a full-time position responsible for a range of administrative and program support duties. Open until position is filled. See the position description for more information.

Navajo Nation Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General

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

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

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, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Senior Programs and Projects Specialist, Window Rock, AZ.  Under the supervision of the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General will provide high level assistance to the Office of the Attorney General/Department of Justice (DOJ) with program/project management related to DOJ’s work with Fiscal Recovery Funds (FRF) matters. Assists in analyzing, developing, and achieving short and long term goals and objectives; establishes performance criteria; and plans, evaluates and improves program delivery; Attends a variety of meetings related to FRF/ARPA; assists OAG with preparation for meetings and events; coordinates program activities and communications with other Navajo Nation offices and the general public. Administers FRF funding for DOJ in compliance with FRF and American Rescue Plan Act requirements, policies and procedures under federal and Navajo Nation law. Assists in development of budget. Assists with procurement of goods and services pertaining to DOJ’s FRF-related work; reviews contracts; troubleshoots issues with procurement and vendors; monitors expenditures; prepares funding reports.  This position is open until June 9, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Navajo Nation Office of the Prosecutor

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

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

Prosecutor, Tuba City, AZ.  Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code; reviews citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; interviews witnesses, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; gathers and compiles evidence; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case. Prepares and presents criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; performs extensive legal research.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until May 26, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Attorney (White Collar Crime Unit), Window Rock, AZ.  Under supervision of the Chief Prosecutor represents the interest of the Navajo Nation government in the area of White Collar Crime prosecution; and assist as needed, in the prosecution of criminal and civil cases and in the litigation of child neglect, dependencies, juvenile criminal and civil cases, and related juvenile matters as needed. Attend arraignments (as required), trials, adjudications, child dependency adjudications, motion hearings, sentencing and disposition hearings, pretrial conferences, preliminary hearings, and other related issues to court attendance; prepares all required legal documents; reviews investigative reports, legal pleadings from defense counsel, law enforcement reports and related documents; determines nature of the criminal offense; establishes case plan with investigators, law enforcement, and related governmental agencies specializing in white collar crime and most other serious criminal offenses such as vehicular homicide, sexual assault, aggravated batteries, child neglect or spousal abuse, etc.; assigns case plans; provides legal guidance and advice to law enforcement personnel in proceeding with investigation; prepares and obtains search warrants as necessary, conducts follow ups on cases and elements of cases, conducts legal research, review criminal complaints, interview witnesses, included but not limited to other legal matters. Provides supervision to the White Collar Crime Unit and ensures the continued daily operation and management of the unit.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until May 24, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Prosecutor, Window Rock, AZ.  Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in 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 June 10, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

2022 Summer Law Clerk – Intern Positions Available with the Navajo Nation Department of Justice

The Navajo Nation Department of Justice (NNDOJ) is comprised of the Office of the Attorney General, the Office of the Prosecutor and the Navajo-Hopi Legal Services Program, and provides legal services to the Navajo Nation government, including the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial Branches, and to the 110 local governing chapters.  These are paid positions and working remotely is an option. Minimum Qualification: Enrollment in a law school accredited by the American Bar Association. Preferred Qualification: Completion of a law school course on Federal Indian Law. To apply, please submit the following: 1) a letter of interest that specifies area(s) of practice of interest; 2) resume; 3) law school transcript; and 4) a brief  (5-10 page) writing sample to DOJ at general@nndoj.org

See previous posts.