jobs

Friday Job Announcements

gabrielagendreau

____________________________________________________________________________ 

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

In the email body: 

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

____________________________________________________________________________ 

Social Justice Legal Foundation 

Managing Attorney. The Managing Attorney will: (1) Be an experienced litigator and trial lawyer with a minimum of eight years of experience working in the private or public sector to lead our work and mentor a team of recent law school graduates. (2) Develop and manage high profile litigation matters. (3) Coordinate the training and development of the team, including our fellows. (4) Be highly resourceful and creative thinkers with the ability to excel independently, as well as on teams. The Managing Attorney will report directly to the Executive Director. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit their cover letter, resume, and law school transcript to rsteele@socialjusticelaw.org.

Senior Attorney. The Senior Attorney will: (1) Be an experienced litigator and trial lawyer with a minimum of five years of experience working in the private or public sector to lead our work and mentor a team of recent law school graduates. (2) Develop and manage high profile litigation matters. (3) Assist in the training and development of the team, including our fellows. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit their cover letter, resume, and law school transcript to rsteele@socialjusticelaw.org. 

Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes – Judicial Branch 

Deputy Attorney General, Concho, OK. Executive Branch. The Deputy Attorney General will: (1) Provide legal representation to the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. (2) Represent the tribes in Federal, State, and Tribal Court. (3) Draft petitions, prepare witnesses, officers, and victims for trial, and Prepare Adult and Juvenile Offenders cases. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit Tribal application, resume, transcripts, diploma, certifications, license, and CDIB to atisdale@cheyenneandarapaho-nsn.gov.

Attorney, Concho, OK. The Attorney will: (1) Provide counsel, advice, and representation to tribal members in tribal court. (2) Provide legal representation to tribal members who face misdemeanor criminal charges and felony criminal charges. (3) Develop and implement internal policies for the efficient and effective administration of the Legal Aid Program. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit Tribal application, resume, transcripts, diploma, certifications, license, and CDIB to atisdale@cheyenneandarapaho-nsn.gov.

Court Clerk, Concho, OK. The Court Clerk will: (1) Supervise and direct the hiring, firing, and work of all deputy court clerks. (2) Collect all fines, fees, and costs authorized or required by law to be paid to the Courts and deliver them to the Tribal Treasurer for deposit in the Court fund. (3) Provide a record in the absence of a Court Reporter to accurately and completely record all proceedings and hearings of the court. (4) Assume accounting and budgetary responsibilities of all accounts and funding sources of the Judicial Branch. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit Tribal application, resume, transcripts, diploma, certifications, license, and CDIB to atisdale@cheyenneandarapaho-nsn.gov.

SORNA Project Technical Assistant, Concho, OK. The Project Technical Assistant will: (1) Provide administrative support to the SORNA Program Administrator. (2) Assist with the Tribes requirements of participation in the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website. (3) Engage in community outreach for prevention of victimization by sex offenders and to encourage reporting, investigation and successful and aggressive prosecution of sex offenses. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit Tribal application, resume, transcripts, diploma, certifications, license, and CDIB to atisdale@cheyenneandarapaho-nsn.gov.

Probation Officer, Concho, OK. The Probation Officer will: (1) Manage multiple cases and oversee probationers; compliance with their probation terms. (2) Ensure probationers understand their probation terms, develop rehabilitation plans, monitor progress, and arrange other services to assist probationers to achieve their goals. (3) Develop, recommend, and implement rehabilitation and treatment plans. (4) Arrange for post-release services to facilitate reintegration as a productive member of society. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit Tribal application, resume, transcripts, diploma, certifications, license, and CDIB to atisdale@cheyenneandarapaho-nsn.gov.

The Deputy Court Clerk, Concho, OK. The Deputy Court Clerk will: (1) Collect all fines, fees, and costs authorized or required by law to be paid to the Courts and deliver them to the Tribal  Treasurer for deposit in the Court fund. (2) Administer oaths, issue summons and subpoenas, certify a true  copy of Court records, and accurately keep each and every record of the Supreme and District Courts. (3) Provide a record in the absence of a Court Reporter to accurately and completely record all proceedings and hearings of the Court. (4) Assume accounting and budgetary responsibilities of all accounts and funding sources of the Judicial Branch. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit Tribal application, resume, transcripts, diploma, certifications, license, and CDIB to atisdale@cheyenneandarapaho-nsn.gov.

The Hopi Tribe

Chief Prosecutor, Kykotsmovi, AZ. The Chief Prosecutor will: (1) Be responsible for executive and administrative control of the Hopi Office of the Prosecutor, as well as the investigation and prosecution of crimes committed by adult and juvenile offenders within the exterior boundaries of the Hopi Reservation. (2) Representation of minor in need of care matters in the Hopi Children’s Court. (3) Participate as directed in specialty dockets such as the Hopi Family Wellness Court. (4) Respond to inquiries from citizen and governmental offices relating to tribal court procedures and violations of Hopi Tribal laws prosecuted in the Hopi Trial Court. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates may apply by submitting an application to HumanResources@hopi.nsn.us no later than August, 6, 2021.

Licensed Deputy Prosecutor, Kykotsmovi, AZ. The Licensed Deputy Prosecutor will: (1) Perform professional attorney-level legal work in the investigation and prosecution of adult and juvenile criminal offenses through conviction and appeal. (2) Present certain civil cases in the Hopi Family Court. (3) Conduct legal research and preparation of Court documents, including appellate briefs. (4) Participate in specialty dockets such as the Hopi Family Wellness Court. (5) Respond to inquiries from citizen and governmental offices relating to tribal court procedures and violations of Hopi Tribal laws prosecuted in the Hopi Trial Court. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates may apply by submitting an application to HumanResources@hopi.nsn.us no later than August, 6, 2021.

University of Idaho College of Law

Assistant Dean of Admissions, Moscow, ID or Boise, ID. The Assistant Dean will: (1) Report directly to the Dean of the College of Law and serve as a member of the senior leadership team. (2) Recruit for the College’s Native American Law Program, which enjoys significant support from the faculty and administration, as demonstrated by the development of our recent Tribal Homelands Scholarship. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should apply here by July 30, 2021. The application will remain open until the position is filled.

Full Time Faculty — Tax and Estate Planning, Moscow, ID. The Faculty will: (1) Teach the basic tax course, business tax (partnerships and corps), estate planning, and wills. (2) Be able to switch out estate planning for another course every other year (which could include Tribal Nations Economics & Law). On its face, this package does not include much in the Native American law arena. However, that very well could change over time and we have several extracurricular programs that could use expertise in tribal tax, estate planning, tribal economic development, etc.. More details regarding these programs are available by emailing Dylan Hedden-Nicely at dhedden@uidaho.edu. 

The Federal Public Defender – District of New Mexico

Assistant Federal Public Defender, Las Cruces, NM. The Assistant Federal Public Defender will: (1) Represent individuals within Native American and Latin American communities charged with federal crimes. (2) Manage an extensive caseload, develop litigation strategies, prepare pleadings, appear in court at all stages of litigation, and meet with clients, experts, witnesses, family members and others. Interested candidates must, in one PDF document, submit a statement of interest, a resume describing your trial and appellate work, and three references to Margaret A. Katze, Federal Public Defender FDNM-HR@fd.org by August 13, 2021. Reference 2021-09 in the subject. 

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

District Court Judge, Durant, OK. The District Court Judge will: (1) Oversee the functions of the Choctaw Nation District Courts. (2) Sit as an impartial trier of all civil and criminal matters. (3) Supervise the Court Clerk, deputy Clerks, Reporters, and all other officers and associates of the Court. (4) Render decisions on all evidentiary and procedural issues for the orderly administration of justice. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can apply online through the application portal no later than August 16th, 2021.

California Indian Legal Services

Staff Attorney, Sacramento, CA. Legal assistance to low-income individuals and tribes on an extensive range of Indian law issues. Duties will include research and writing, counsel and advice, representation in federal, state, and tribal court, and community outreach. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can submit a resume, cover letter, and writing sample to Patricia De La Cruz-Lyans, Director of Administration at hiring@calindian.org. The position is open until filled.

New Mexico Legal Aid Native American Program

Native American Program Paralegal, Bernalillo, New Mexico. The Paralegal will: (1) Maintain confidential client information in a database. (2) Conduct applicant intakes, collect client data, and provide litigation support. (3) Occasionally travel within the state. (4) Handle cases and matters in several jurisdictions involving federal Indian law and tribal law issues. (5) Represent low-income individuals in Pueblo and tribal courts and other forums, which may include family law, consumer law, and criminal law matters. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can send a current resume and a letter of interest to: jobs@nmlegalaid.org by August 13th, 2021.

Reno-Sparks Indian Colony 

Senior Staff Attorney, Reno, Nevada. The Senior Staff Attorney will: (1) Provide legal counsel and representation including but not limited to the preparation of pleadings, trial and appellate court briefs, negotiations between parties, trial and hearing at the original level of jurisdiction or on appeal, and other tribal, state or federal court or hearing appearances in the best interests of RSIC. (2) Provide legal counsel and representation to the Tribal Chairman and Tribal Council on legal and quasi-legal matters as directed by the Tribal Chairman Tribal Council, and directs and supervises the work of the Staff Attorney. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can send their resume to Esther Sanchez, HR Director esanchez@rsic.org. 

Staff Attorney, Reno, Nevada. The Staff Attorney will: (1) Prepare and render legal opinions concerning the RSIC, its functions, jurisdiction, procedures, and policies. (2) Create a searchable database of RSIC ordinances, laws, resolutions and other documents. (3) Assist in the drafting of documents, ordinances, rules, regulations, applications. (4) Prepare legal analysis and legislation proposed by the RSIC for presentation to the Nevada State Legislature and/or the United States Congress. (5) Attend and provide legal counsel at meetings of the Tribal Council, ad hoc committee meetings and other sessions, conferences, or related functions. (6) Provide a regular, monthly report to the Tribal Council. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can send their resume directly to Esther Sanchez, HR Director esanchez@rsic.org.

Cowlitz Indian Tribe – Request for Proposal

Consultant, Ridgefield, WA. The Consultant will: (1) Gather information to assess and evaluate the Cowlitz Indian Tribe’s processes, systems, past performance, and the strengths and limitations of current Indian Child Welfare operations. (2) Assist in rebuilding an Indian Child Welfare program from start to finish. (3) Assess the efficacy of the systems in place to advocate on behalf of Cowlitz Indian Children involved in child welfare and dependency cases. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can send applications to Keegan Bordeaux, Staff Attorney kbordeaux@cowlitz.org. Applications are due August 31, 2021.

Sonosky, Chambers, Sachse, Endreson & Perry, LLP

Summer 2022 – Incoming 2L Student Associate. Sonosky, Chambers, Sachse, Endreson, & Perry LLP is a national law firm dedicated to representing Native American interests in a wide range of endeavors – including trial and appellate litigation, federal Indian law, tribal law, Indian self-determination and self-governance matters, transportation and infrastructure, natural resources, and economic development. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume, transcript, and writing sample to Mary Pavel, Partner at mpavel@sonosky.com and also copy kwray@sonosky.com. Applications are due by Friday, October 8th, 2021.

The Federal Public Defender – Districts of South Dakota and North Dakota

Assistant Federal Public Defender, Fargo, North Dakota. The Assistant Federal Public Defender will: (1) Represent individuals accused of federal crimes in the United States District Court for the District of North Dakota and the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. (2) Represent individuals accused of federal crimes under the Major Crimes Act and other federal statutes on the sovereign lands of Spirit Lake Nation and the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa. Please see the position description for more information. Position announcement and application instructions can be found at www.sdnd.fd.org/careers. Questions should be directed to Jason_Tupman@fd.org. The position is open until filled with priority consideration for applications received prior to September 1, 2021.

Fredrikson & Byron, P.A.

Federal Indian Law Attorney, Minneapolis, MN. The Federal Indian Law Attorney will assist and advise tribes business ventures and related matters. Please see the position description for more information. Applicants can apply online here by October 1st, 2021. For assistance with the application process, or for accommodations, please contact lawrecruiting@fredlaw.com.

Navajo Nation

Principal Tribal Court Advocate, Office of the Attorney General, Window Rock, AZ. The Principal Tribal Court Advocate will: (1) Perform 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. (2) Child Support Enforcement: Present child support enforcement cases before the Office of Hearings and Appeals. (3) 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 apply here.

Chief Prosecutor, Office of the Chief Prosecutor, Window Rock, AZ. The Chief Prosecutor will: (1) Perform administrative, managerial, and prosecution work in directing the Office of the Chief Prosecutor and component districts including the Juvenile Justice and White Collar Crime programs. (2) Administer short and long range planning, organizing, directing, strategic planning for annual, external, and supplemental budgets, and related activities of the Office of the Chief Prosecutor. (3) Coordinate and evaluate the overall effectiveness of the assigned program offices and districts. (4) Adhere to the Plan of Operation and establishing annual goals and objectives, and making necessary amendments. This position serves at the pleasure of the Attorney General. This position is open until filled. Please see the position description or apply here.

 Attorney, Office of the Prosecutor, Ramah, NM. The Attorney will: (1) Represent the interest of the Navajo Nation government under supervision of the Chief Prosecutor/Deputy Chief Prosecutor. (2) Provide and assist several district prosecutor offices in prosecution of criminal and civil cases representing the interests of the Navajo Nation government. (3) Will attend arraignments, trials, adjudications, child dependency adjudications, motion hearings, sentencing/disposition hearings, pretrial conferences, preliminary hearings, and other related issues to court attendance. (4) Establish a case plan with law enforcement personnel from various governmental agencies on most serious criminal offenses. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor. This position is open until filled. Please see the position description or apply here.

Principal Attorney (Water Right Unit), Office of the Attorney General, Window Rock, AZ. The Principal Attorney will: (1) Represent 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 under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General. (2) Work closely with technical staff within the Water Rights Unit Staff, Department of Water Resources and other programs within the Navajo Nation, and with consultants. (3) Provide 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).  This position is open until filled. Please see the position description or apply here.

Request for Proposals (RFP), Independent Contractor – Attorney, Window Rock, AZ. The Attorney will: (1) Provide legal services for the Navajo Nation Office of Head Start (“NHS”) in connection with federal Office of Head Start (“OHS”) matters, including laws, and policies, and applicable Navajo Nation laws and policies. (2) Review and draft Navajo Nation laws and policies with respect to Title 10 of the Navajo Nation Code. (3) Draft and review contracts, leases, Facility Use agreements, Intra-Governmental and other agreements, including amendments. (4) Assist in negotiations and consultations. Please see the RFP description for more information. Interested applicants should email their proposals to Christine Benally, Legal Secretary contracts@nndoj.org by Friday, August 13, 2021 at 3 p.m. MDT.

Request for Proposals (RFP), Independent Contractor – Attorney, Window Rock, AZ. The Attorney will: (1) Provide legal services to the Navajo Nation Gaming Regulatory Office (NNGRO) in connection with the Navajo Nation Tribal Gaming Regulations and related operations matters involving the legal interests of the Navajo Nation. (2) Serve as an Appeals Hearing Officer as the presiding officer for all appeals of NNGRO decisions following Section 2056 of the Navajo Gaming Ordinance (5 N.N.C. § 2001 et seq.). Interested applicants should email their proposals to Christine Benally, Legal Secretary contracts@nndoj.org by Friday, August 13, 2021 at 3 p.m. MDT.

Sacks Tierney

Associate Attorney, Scottsdale, AZ. The Associate Attorney will conduct legal research, writing, and analysis. Please see the position description for more information. Applicants should email a cover letter, resume, law school transcript, and writing sample to Laura Nance by email at laura.nance@sackstierney.com by August 31, 2021.

Rothstein Donatelli, LLP

Associate Attorney, Tempe, AZ. The Tempe Office of Rothstein Donatelli LLP is seeking an Associate Attorney for its Indian law practice with two or more years of experience and a demonstrated commitment to providing high quality legal services. The ideal candidate will have excellent research and writing skills and experience working with tribal communities. Familiarity with Indian law is preferred. Interested candidates should send a cover letter, resume, references, and writing sample to Firm Administrator Manya Snyder at info@rothsteinlaw.com.   The position will remain open until filled.

Friday Job Announcements

gabrielagendreau

____________________________________________________________________________ 

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

In the email body: 

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

____________________________________________________________________________ 

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma 

District Court Judge, Durant, OK. The District Court Judge will: (1) Oversee the functions of the Choctaw Nation District Courts. (2) Sit as an impartial trier of all civil and criminal matters. (3) Supervise the Court Clerk, deputy Clerks, Reporters, and all other officers and associates of the Court. (4) Render decisions on all evidentiary and procedural issues for the orderly administration of justice. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can apply online through the application portal no later than August 16th, 2021.

Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Durant, OK. The Assistant Prosecuting Attorney will: (1) Represent the Choctaw Nation in all juvenile cases and deprived actions within the jurisdiction of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. (2) Facilitate communication with federal, state, and local officials regarding juvenile matters involving members of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. (3) Assist in drafting legislation affecting children and juvenile laws. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can apply here. 

The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Legal Department

Associate Tribal Attorney, Cass Lake, MN. The Associate Tribal Attorney will: (1) Analyze ongoing cases and legal issues central to the needs of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe. (2) Prepare and analyze contracts, legal documents, Tribal Codes, ordinances and Resolutions. (3) Represent the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe in tribal, State and Federal Court. Please see the position description for more information. The position is open until filled, and interested candidates can apply here. 

Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services

Social Worker Supervisor II, Sacramento, CA. The Social Worker Supervisor will: (1) Plan, organize, and direct the work of social service staff. (2) Supervise and train lower level social workers. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should apply later than August 2nd, 2021.

Northwest Justice Project  

Staff Attorney, Seattle, WA. The Staff Attorney will: (1) Provide advice, consultation, limited and extensive pro se assistance, and representation to Native American crime victims. (2) Develop and maintain relationships with tribal DV advocate programs and personnel. (3) Travel across Washington State for outreach. (4) Conduct legal education events for client groups, social and human services providers, and civil and tribal justice system stakeholders. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, and writing sample here.

Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation

Senior Legal Counsel, Mashantucket CT. The Senior Legal Counsel will: (1) Provide legal advice and services to the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, including its departments, subdivisions, regulatory bodies, committees, entities and business enterprises. (2) Communicate legal concepts and analysis to resolve matters. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can send their resume to sferguson@foxwoods.com or apply here.

Patterson Earnhart Real Bird & Wilson LLP

Associate Attorney, Louisville, CO. The Associate Attorney will: (1) Provide counsel and legal services to new and existing clients. (2) Participate in business development functions. (3) Conduct legal research and prepare legal memoranda and necessary pleadings required in all aspects of tribal, federal, and state litigation matters. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can send their resume, cover letter, writing sample, professional references, and law school transcripts (if graduated less than 5 years ago) to Erin Obray, Firm Administrator eobray@nativelawgroup.com. The position will remain open for 60 days or until filled.

Native American Rights Fund (NARF) 

Blaustein Fellow, Boulder, CO. The Blaustein Fellow will: (1) Work with NARF Staff Attorneys and clients in all aspects of complex impact litigation. (2) Represent NARF and NARF clients before various community and stakeholder groups. (3) Represent NARF clients before federal and state agencies and in regulatory proceedings. (4) Build and lead coalitions with diverse stakeholders and work in partnership with other organizations. Position is for two years only and is not a guarantee of full-time NARF employment after the end of the fellowship. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can submit their resume, cover letter, three professional references, writing sample, and law school transcript no later than 5:00 pm Mountain Daylight Time, on Friday, August 13, 2021, by email to: Kevin Cheng at kcheng@narf.org. 

Summer 2022 Law Clerk. Positions are available in Anchorage, AK; Boulder, CO; and Washington, D.C. Please indicate your office preference in your cover letter. The Law Clerk will: (1) Assist NARF attorneys by conducting legal research. (2) Draft legal memorandums and case filings. (3) Verify citations and proofread. (4) Assist in case management and work on special legal projects. Please see the position description for  more information. To apply, submit a cover letter (indicate your office preference), resume, non-collaborative legal writing sample, law school transcript, letter of recommendation, and three references to Kevin Cheng, Law Clerk Program Coordinator kcheng@narf.org by September 10, 2021. 

The Yakama Nation Department of Justice Services

Attorney II, Toppenish, WA. The Attorney will: (1) Represent and advise tribal member clients in Tribal, Municipal, State and Federal Court systems. (2) Provide a full range of legal services to tribal members in areas such as, criminal, dependency, children’s court, fish and game, civil, family and Federal Indian Law matters. (3) Provide legal education law clinics for the public. Interested applicants can submit an application here by 08/04/21, or contact bevra_jacobson@yakama.com with questions.

Cherokee Nation

Assistant Attorney General I or II (OAG), Tahlequah, OK. The Assistant Attorney General will: (1) Legally represent the Nation and its departments, divisions, programs, boards, commissions, and trust authorities in civil, criminal and juvenile cases both proposed or pending in administrative appeals, tribal, state, federal court and other proceedings. (2) Act as a legal advisor to, draft legal opinions, contracts, policies, and legislation for the Nation. (3) Assist Attorney General and/or Senior Assistant Attorney General concerning transactions of business involving internal affairs, Tribal Council, directors, officers and corporate relations with the general public. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can apply here by August 4th, 2021. Hiring for two Assistant Attorney General positions.

Alaska Native Justice Center

Legal Fellow, Anchorage, AK. Late summer or early fall 2021, recent law graduates are encouraged to apply. Fellows will: (1) Provide legal services to victims and survivors of crime. (2) Support and partner with Alaska Tribes to build capacity, implement cultural values and remedies, and access resources for Tribal Justice Systems. (3) Represent Alaska Tribes in State Child of Need Aid cases where the Indian Child Welfare Act (“ICWA”) applies. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants can apply here. The position will remain open until filled.

Navajo Nation Department of Justice

Principal Tribal Court Advocate, Office of the Attorney General, Window Rock, AZ. The Principal Tribal Court Advocate will: (1) Perform legal work related to representation of the Navajo Nation government, including legal research, negotiations, legal writing, drafting pleadings, briefs, memoranda, resolutions and other documents for the divisions, departments, or programs assigned. (2) Present child support enforcement cases before the Office of Hearings and Appeals. (3) 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 for more information, or apply here.

Principal Attorney (Water Right Unit), Office of the Attorney General, Window Rock, AZ. Window Rock, AZ. The Principal Attorney will: (1) Represent 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. (2) Work closely with technical staff within the Water Rights Unit Staff, Department of Water Resources and other programs within the Navajo Nation, and with consultants. (3) Provide 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). (4) 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 for more information, or apply here.

Chief Prosecutor, Office of the Chief Prosecutor, Window Rock, AZ. Window Rock, AZ. The Chief Prosecutor will: (1) Perform administrative, managerial, and prosecution work in directing the Office of the Chief Prosecutor and component districts including the Juvenile Justice and White Collar Crime programs. (2) Administer short and long range planning, organizing, directing, strategic planning for annual, external, and supplemental budgets, and related activities of the Office of the Chief Prosecutor.  (3) Coordinate and evaluate the overall effectiveness of the assigned program offices and districts.  (4) Adhere to the Plan of Operation and establishing annual goals and objectives, and making necessary amendments. This position serves at the pleasure of the Attorney General. This position is open until filled. Please see the position description for more information, or apply here. 

Attorney, Office of the Prosecutor, Ramah, NM. Under supervision of the Chief Prosecutor/Deputy Chief Prosecutor represents the interest of the Navajo Nation government. The Attorney will: (1) Assist several district prosecutor offices in prosecution of criminal and civil cases representing the interests of the Navajo Nation government. (2) Will attend arraignments, trials, adjudications, child dependency adjudications, and other related issues to court attendance. (3) Prepare legal documents. (4) Provide legal guidance and advice to law enforcement personnel in proceeding with investigation. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor. This position is open until filled. Please see the position description for more information, or apply here.

Earthjustice

Associate Attorney, Miami, FL. The Associate Attorney will: (1) The Associate Attorney will work collaboratively with Florida Regional Office staff located in Miami and Tallahassee, FL, as well as with program staff located throughout the country. (2) Focus on litigation involving water pollution, water conservation, wetlands protection, endangered species protection, fish and wildlife conservation, Everglades restoration, clean and renewable energy, and equal access to a healthy environment for all. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can apply here by August 10, 2021. Applications submitted afterwards will be viewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.  

Associate Attorney, The Biodiversity Defense Program. Washington, D.C., Seattle, WA, Bozeman, MT (remote). The Associate Attorney will: (1) Work to stem the growing crisis of biodiversity loss. (2) Work closely with more senior lawyers to advance a nationwide litigation and advocacy campaign to protect and preserve our remaining biodiversity. (3) Occasionally travel to work towards nationwide focus. The position is available immediately but we will consider applicants who can start work anytime between now and the fall of 2022. Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, three professional references and a writing sample. Please apply here by September 8, 2021. Applications submitted afterwards will be viewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. 

Director, Outreach and Partnership Advancement, San Francisco, CA, New York, NY, Seattle, WA, Washington, D.C., Miami, FL, Chicago, IL, Tallahassee, FL, New Orleans, LA (remote), Houston, TX (remote). The Director will: (1) Assist Earthjustice staff in outreach and partnership and building networks that support expanding bodies of work with frontline communities, grassroots groups, and other partners. This includes but is not limited to organizations that serve low-income communities, communities of color, and other communities that have been historically targeted to receive heavy pollution burdens. (2) May also maintain their own organization-level relationships with key partners, serve as an Earthjustice ambassador (along with program staff) at events hosted by partners or events that bring partner groups together. (3) Serve as an initial point of contact for organizations or communities seeking to engage with Earthjustice. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, three professional references, and a writing sample here by September 8, 2021. After that, applications may be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled..

Big Fire Law & Policy Group LLP

Gaming and Compliance Attorney, Omaha, NE or Winnebago, NE. The Gaming and Compliance Attorney will: (1) Be responsible for key projects and functions related to gaming, commercial and construction and A&E contracts, finance, employment law, complex transactions, and state regulatory issues. (2) Review, negotiate, analyze, and draft key company contracts and provide legal advice to applicable business clients including strategic partnership agreements, sponsorship agreements, payment processing agreements, affiliate agreements, and nondisclosure agreements. (3) Support and advise property management, gaming leadership personnel, and other relevant personnel on gaming and related regulatory and compliance matters. (4) Assess applicable gaming and other laws and regulations for possible changes and reforms. Please see the position description for more information. Interested applicants should send their resume and cover letter including salary expectations to careers@bigfirelaw.com.

Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana – Request for Proposals

Request for Proposals (RFP) for COVID-19 Recovery Strategic Planning. Charenton, LA. The Tribe wishes to engage a consultant (or contractor) to develop a comprehensive strategic plan that enables the Tribe to maximize the use of COVID-19 pandemic federal relief—including funds from the FRF—to implement those strategic priorities that facilitate a strong governmental and economic recovery from the pandemic. To that end, the Tribe invites you to submit a response to this Request for Proposals. Please submit your response before 5:00 p.m. Central Time on August 19, 2021. Please see the RFP description for detailed information regarding the submission process. Questions may be directed via email to April Wyatt, Chief Administrative Officer / Tribal Administrator, at aprilc@chitimacha.gov. Please carbon copy Michael Murphy, General Counsel to the Tribe, at mmurphy@thejacobsonlawgroup.com on your email inquiry as well. In the subject line for the inquiry, please insert “RFP – COVID-19 Recovery Strategic Plan.”

The Tribal Law Journal – University of New Mexico School of Law

The Tribal Law Journal is sending out a second call for submissions for Volume 22 of their journal. Submissions will be accepted until October 15, 2021. Please see the attached informational flyer for more details. Article submissions may be sent to us by email at triballawjournal@gmail.com. The Tribal Law Journal accepts both written and oral submissions, including multimedia projects (i.e., interviews, stories, art) from law students, practitioners, tribal members, and faculty members. For more information, or if you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at triballawjournal@gmail.com.

See previous posts.

Friday Job Announcements

gabrielagendreau

____________________________________________________________________________ 

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

In the email body: 

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

____________________________________________________________________________ 

The Environmental Law Institute (ELI):

Senior Manager of Educational Programs, Washington, D.C. The Senior Manager will: (1) Deliver high quality educational programming that serves the interests and needs of ELI’s membership. (2) Recruit new members of ELI’s various membership programs. (3) Facilitate all administrative and logistical aspects of the education events. (4) Reach out to constituents and represent the Institute publicly as needed to communicate and foster particular programs and projects. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can apply through ELI’s application portal here no later than Friday, August 6, 2021 and must include a cover letter, resume, 1 page writing sample, and a list of references. 

Staff Attorney, Washington, D.C. The Staff Attorney will: (1) Perform extensive legal and policy research and analysis. (2) Develop written products on law and policy topics in a range of formats. (3) Facilitate and coordinate meetings and communications with partners and represent the Institute publicly as needed. (4) Occasionally direct ELI projects by performing, assigning, and supervising delegated project tasks, and adhering to project budgets. (5) Periodic travel to domestic and international destinations as projects required. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can apply through ELI’s application portal here no later than August 15, 2021 and must include a cover letter, resume, legal writing sample, and a list of 3 references. 

Science Fellow for the Climate Judiciary Project, Washington, D.C. Science Fellows will: (1) Provide content research on climate science for curriculum. (2) Draft materials for publication and presentation on the intersections of climate science law and policy. (3) Help develop science content for the website. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can apply through ELI’s application portal here no later than Friday, July 16, 2021 and must include a cover letter, resume, and a writing sample. 

Native American Rights Fund (NARF):

Summer 2022 Law Clerk. Positions are available in all three of NARF’s offices: Anchorage, AK; Boulder, CO; and Washington, D.C. Please indicate your office preference in your cover letter. Law Clerks will: (1) Work towards preservation of tribal existence. (2) Protect tribal natural resources. (3) Promote Native American human rights. (4) Hold governments accountable to Native Americans. (5) Develop Indian law and educate the public about Indian rights, laws, and issues. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates can send applications to kcheng@narf.org by September 10, 2021. Applications must include a cover letter, resume, non-collaborative legal writing sample, law school transcript, one letter of recommendation, and three references.

Paralegal, Boulder, CO. Paralegals will: (1) Coordinate and manage all aspects of cases and matters, including all phases of the litigation process. (2) Provide litigation, administrative, and clerical support for multiple attorneys. Please see the position description for more information. To apply, submit by email a cover letter, complete resume, and three professional references to Ron Mack at: rmack@narf.org. Position is open until filled.

Staff Attorney, Boulder, CO (preferred) or Washington, D.C. The Staff Attorney will: (1) Have excellent research and writing skills to assume a water rights and litigation docket. (2) Have interest in federal Indian law, experience with, and knowledge of, Native American communities and culture; and experience with federal and/or state court litigation. Experience in water law is a plus. Please see the position description for more information. To apply, submit a cover letter, complete resume (including representative sample of litigation matters), three professional references, and a writing sample  to Ron Mack at: rmack@narf.org. Position is open until filled.

Michigan Indian Legal Services

AmeriCorps Attorney/Paralegal for Medical-Legal Partnership Program, Traverse City, MI. Attorneys will: (1) Offer trainings for health providers and legal assistance for low-income patients at partnering hospitals or health clinics serving tribes. (2) Provide direct legal help to low-income patients at Little River Band of Ottawa Indians Health Services and Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians Health Clinic. (3) Provide periodic trainings and presentations to providers at medical facilities. (4) Recruit and train new volunteers from local health partners. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should apply here. 

Anishinabe Legal Services  

Staff Attorney, Cass Lake and White Earth, MN. Attorneys will: (1) Handle a wide variety of civil matters before State and Tribal Courts. (2) Be able to handle a large caseload of client matters throughout a wide geographic service area. Please see the position description for more details. Email a cover letter and resume to ALS Executive Director Cody Nelson at: cnelson@alslegal.org. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation Tribal Council

Senior Assistant General Counsel, Fountain Hills, AZ. Senior Assistant General Counsels will: (1) Serve as a senior legal advisor to the Tribal Council, tribal government departments, and economic enterprises. (2) Provide legal advice and analysis of tribal, State, and Federal laws and regulations. (3) Draft and revise the Tribal Constitution, Law and Order Code, other tribal laws, ordinances, and policies. (4) Represent the Nation in Tribal, State, and Federal court actions. Please see the job description for more information. Interested candidates should submit their application to recruiter@fmyn.org by August 3, 2021.

Maier Pfeffer Kim Geary & Cohen LLP

Associate Attorney (Indian Gaming), Oakland, CA. Associate Attorneys will provide legal advice and counsel to tribal casinos and development boards. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should send their resumes to hiring@jmandmplaw.com.

Oneida Nation

Family Court Judge, Oneida, WI. The Family Court Judge will: (1) Preside over the Oneida Nation’s family law and child welfare cases. (2) Oversee proper management of the Family Court’s calendar and business, including recruiting and training guardians ad litem. (3) Supervise the Clerks of Family Court. (4) Assist in developing the annual budget for the Family Court. For more information, please see the position description or apply here. The position is open until filled.

Michigan State University College of Law

Assistant Director of Academic Support, East Lansing, MI. The Administrative Director will: (1) Manage Academic Success Program bar exam programming by developing and implementing new bar exam preparation for students to help maximize bar passage. (2) Provide guidance to and oversee all ASP Peer Mentors. (3) Advise all law students on academic support and bar support matters. Please view the position description for more information and apply here. Applications must include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information for at least 3 references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the posting is open until filled.

Earthjustice

Managing Attorney, Anchorage or Juneau, AK. The Managing Attorney will: (1) Manage, develop, and implement regional strategies that align with organization-wide strategic plans and programmatic and litigation priorities. (2) Drive efforts to build and maintain effective working relationships with clients and partners, as well as with the news media, government officials, and donors. Please see the position description for more information. Please submit your resume and expression of interest to: Chris Spagnola at cspagnola@thinkingahead.com and Jessica Martinez at jmartinez@thinkingahead.com. 

Managing Attorney at the Northern Rockies Office, Bozeman, MT. The Managing Attorney will: (1) Lead and oversee the work of the Northern Rockies Office. (2) Manage, develop, and implement regional strategies that align with organization-wide strategic plans and programmatic and litigation priorities. (3) Drive efforts to build and maintain effective working relationships with clients and partners, as well as with the news media, government officials, and donors. Please see the position description for more information. Please submit your resume and expression of interest to: Chris Spagnola at cspagnola@thinkingahead.com and Jessica Martinez at jmartinez@thinkingahead.com.  

Fort Lewis College

Visiting Instructors of Political Science, Durango, CO. Visiting Instructors will: (1) Teach four undergraduate courses per semester. (2) Demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, as well as working with broadly diverse communities. (3) Mentor political science students and supervise undergraduate research projects. Please see the position description for more information. Submit materials as one PDF file via email by July 25, 2021 to: VisitingInstructor-Search@fortlewis.edu. Position will remain open until filled.

Rosette LLP

Indian Law Attorney, Sacramento, CA. The Attorney will: (1) Protect the interests of federally-recognized Indian Tribes and matters involving Native American heritage. (2) Provide support in areas of Federal Indian law including in the areas of litigation (in tribal, state and federal courts), transactional law, gaming law, internal tribal governance matters, lobbying, water law, and environmental law. (3) Build and maintain strong client relationships. (4) Must be willing to travel and work on client matters throughout the United States. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should submit their cover letter, resume, and a writing sample via email to: Michelle LaPena at mlapena@rosettelaw.com by 07/31/2021.

The Wilderness Society (TWS)

Associate Attorney. Denver, CO or Washington, D.C. preferred; other TWS office locations considered. The Associate Attorney will: (1) Provide legal, policy, and land use planning support to work towards achieving net zero fossil fuel emissions from federal public lands. (2) Conduct legal research and draft legal memoranda to inform litigation strategies, policy development, and other Conservation Program efforts. (3) Track and monitor docket of cases where TWS is directly engaged or interested in following outcomes. (4) Co-manage TWS law clerk program, including recruitment, onboarding, supervision, project management, feedback, and mentoring. Please see the position description for more information. Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter by August 8th, 2021.

Friday Job Announcements

Monica Williamson

____________________________________________________________________________

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

In the email body:

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

____________________________________________________________________________

Tohono O’odham Nation

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

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

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

Native American Disability Law Center

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

Wisconsin Judicare, Inc.

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

The Yakama Nation Public Defender-Legal Aid Services Program

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

New Mexico Legal Aid

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

Indian and Gaming Law Section

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

The Tulalip Office of Civil Legal Aid (TOCLA)

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

The Nez Perce Tribe

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

See previous posts.

Job Announcements

Monica Williamson

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

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


The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

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

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

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

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

Office of the Chief Prosecutor:

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

Office of the Prosecutor:

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

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

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


Humboldt County California, Department of Health and Human Services

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

Oneida Judiciary (WI)

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

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

Western Environmental Law Center (WELC)

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

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

The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe

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

Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe

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

Earthjustice

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

See previous posts.

Friday Job Announcements

Monica Williamson

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

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

WI Judicare

Elder and Disability Law Position, Wausau, WI. Qualified applicants willing to work remotely in or near the service area are encouraged to apply.  Key Responsibilities (1) Maintain caseload on behalf of Indian individuals and groups in matters related to public benefits; (2) Educate and serve Native American Elders in areas of health and income maintenance, estate planning, and exercise of religious freedom, among others; (3) Provide backup services and education to Tribal Benefit Specialists; (4) Participate in tribal court development and community education projects; and (5) Carry out training and coordination of law student and other pro bono service projects. Please see the position description for more information.

Criminal and Civil Tribal Court Position, Wausau, WI. Qualified applicants willing to work remotely in or near the service area are encouraged to apply.  Key Responsibilities (1) Maintain caseload on behalf of Indian individuals in both civil and criminal matters in tribal court or arising under federal or tribal law. Civil case areas include CHIPS/ICW, custody/placement, 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. Please see the position description for more information.

SEARHC

Associate General Counsel, Juneau, AK. Southeast Alaska Regional Health Consortium Open until filled. URL to job. Please see the position description for more information.

The Mohegan Tribe

Attorney General, Uncasville, CT. The Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut is searching for a successor to the retiring incumbent to fill the position of Attorney General.  This position is part of the Tribe’s senior executive team and is responsible for executive, managerial and administrative duties to oversee all legal and assigned regulatory departments as well as developing legal strategies to advise the Tribe and its business enterprises. Application closes Friday, July 16th, 2021. For more information, please see the position description.

Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy

Staff Attorney, St. Paul, MN Work with Chief Legal Officer and program staff to serve MCEA’s legal needs, including analyzing potential cases, researching and developing legal strategies, litigating, and providing day to day legal advice; Represent MCEA and other client organizations in administrative and court actions; Engage in legislative and administrative advocacy, including reviewing proposed legislation and rules, meeting with legislators and agency staff, and providing written and oral testimony; and more. Closing Date: July 26, 2021. Please see the position description for more information.

Pueblo of Pojoaque General Counsel

Attorney. Provide legal services under the direct supervision of the Chief General Counsel. Applicant will assume diverse roles while working with the Pueblo people, their government and Pueblo corporations. Position requires a substantial knowledge and understanding of the Pueblo, its departments and businesses and a general understanding of Indian Law and tribal-federal-state relations and the Pueblo of Pojoaque Law and Order Code. A background of federal Indian law is essential. Practice areas include direct legal services, domestic affairs, tribal corporations, water law, litigation, gaming, general civil law, and contracts. Position will be filled within 30 days of this posting. Send resumes via email to lbarnhart@pojoaque.org. Please have resumes submitted by June 30, 2021. For more information please see the position description.

Alaska Legal Services Corporation

Native Law Staff Attorney, Anchorage, Alaska. Provide legal services to Association of Village Council Presidents (“AVCP”) member Tribes and tribal members in. 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 Native law matters on behalf of AVCP Tribes and tribal members. The Anchorage ICWA attorney will be serving clients in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, in cases primarily heard in Anchorage, Alaska courts, but also elsewhere throughout the state. For more information, please see the position description.

Native Law Staff Attorney, Bethel, Alaska. Provide legal services to Association of Village Council Presidents (“AVCP”) member Tribes and tribal members. 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 Native law matters on behalf of AVCP Tribes and tribal members. The Bethel ICWA attorney will be serving clients in cases primarily heard in Bethel, Alaska courts, serving clients in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. The attorney will be supervised and supported by ALSC staff. Travel to both urban and rural areas will be required. For this position, the attorney will either be:

· Housed within the AVCP ICWA department, in Bethel, Alaska; or

· Housed in Alaska Legal Services’ Anchorage-based office, with expenses-paid travel to Bethel, Alaska for approximately one week out of each month, provided COVID-19 precautions allow.

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.

Navajo Nation Office of the Chief Prosecutor:

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

Navajo Nation Office of the Prosecutor:

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

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

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

See previous posts.

Friday Job Announcements

Monica Williamson

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

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

Bay Mills Indian Community
Attorney, Brimley, MI. Open Until Filled. The attorney works under the direct supervision of the President of the Bay Mills Indian Community, and provides strategic legal advice as counsel for and on behalf of the Bay Mills Indian Community, and all its governmental and commercial entities to advance compliance with applicable laws, to appear as such before all federal, state and tribal courts, tribunals, departments, agencies and committees of Congress and the State legislatures, including services in connection with tribal claims against the United States; provided, that monetary recovery claims against the United States are not covered by the attorney contract.

General Manager of Bay Mills Business Holdings, Brimley, MI. Open Until Filled. Under the general direction of the President and Bay Mills Business Holdings Board of Directors, the Bay Mills Business Holdings General Manager performs extensive administrative, evaluative, and technical work pertaining to all non-gaming enterprise activities of Bay Mills Indian Community concerning the Northern Light Cannabis Company, Four Seasons Market & Deli, and Bay Mart. The General Manager has the overall responsibility of establishing and ensuring compliance in accordance with Bay Mills policies and procedures, as well as applicable regulations, laws, policies, and procedures of Bay Mills Indian Community and Bay Mills Marijuana Commission. The General Manager provides the Board of Directors with recommendations for a strategic plan and for Director level decisions pertaining to the operations. The incumbent directs timely completion of objectives with all of the enterprises in accordance with the strategic plan. General employment applications can be found here.

Pueblo of Laguna

Summer Law Clerk, Dept: Public Defender/Government Affairs Office. 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. Closing date for application submission – June 18, 2021.

Earthjustice

Senior Attorney for the Midwest Office.  Our work includes cases opposing pipelines and mining that will have devastating impacts on the environment and tribal interests; and fighting for clean air, soil, and water. We are committed to working with communities across the Midwest with special attention to Detroit, Chicagoland including Northwest Indiana, and St. Louis. The attorney selected for this position will have the opportunity to contribute to the strategic growth of our docket, including developing litigation and advocacy seeking to protect families, communities, and populations—especially the most overburdened communities. In addition, the attorney will help develop the Midwest work safeguarding health and the environment from toxic chemicals, including in our homes and schools. Apply here.

Senior Attorney for the Fossil Fuels Program. Earthjustice’s Fossil Fuels Program seeks applicants for a Senior Attorney to join us in using the power of the law to protect communities and our environment from an onslaught of new oil and gas development. The position will focus on LNG facilities and oil and gas pipelines in the U.S. Gulf Region but could include infrastructure located in other parts of the U.S. The position will be based in New Orleans in a satellite office space shared with other Fossil Fuel Program staff, or in Texas (remotely). Candidates interested in apply to the Senior Attorney role for the Fossil Fuels Program should submit a resume, cover letter, three professional references and a writing sample. Apply here.

NCAI

Senior Legal & Policy Advisor. Join the organization as a Senior Advisor to the CEO on legal matters and federal policy that impacts tribal governments. The Senior Advisor’s work includes legal, policy, program, and management work assigned by the Chief Executive Officer. This work includes, but is not limited to: tribal sovereignty, the federal trust responsibility, law enforcement, tribal justice systems, federal agency consultation, climate change, land use policy, and other matters of importance to Tribal Nations. The Senior Advisor reports to the Chief Executive Officer and is a NCAI senior management team member. Closing Date: June 30,  2021. For more information please see the position description.

The Information Management and Technology (IT) The person in this position should have the ability to advise on technology, technology support, and communications platforms, as well as the presentation and integration of organization-wide information in multiple formats, organized in appropriate platforms and categories. The employee will bring ideas and vision based on industry expertise, technical capability, and client relations, guiding NCAI to incorporate our efficiently reach our goals. Closing Date- June 30, 2021. For more information please see the position description.

Chippewa Ottawa Resource Authority (CORA)

Executive Director, Sault Ste. Marie, MI.  This position is opened until filled and any interested people can either contact Deanna Bowen at (906) 632-0043 or at djbowen@chippewaottawa.org to seek the full job description, receive an application and for any questions they may have. Please see the poisiotn description for more information.

Tulalip Tribal Court

Civil Legal Aid Attorney, Tulalip Office of Civil Legal Aid, Tulalip, WA. TOCLA is a multi-disciplinary civil legal aid office located within the Tulalip Tribal Court system in in Snohomish County.  TOCLA provides legal assistance to low-income tribal members facing civil legal issues that affect their safety, family integrity, health, and access to education and public benefits. TOCLA provides culturally sensitive, competent representation in a holistic manner by collaborating with other tribal legal and social services to assist clients in identifying legal and non-legal needs and address barriers in accessing services. Our office consists of five attorney positions who represent eligible tribal members in a variety of cases within the Tulalip Tribal Court. Please send a resume, cover letter, and writing sample by June 24th. Please see the attached job description.

Domestic Violence Advocate Attorney, Tulalip, WA. The Attorney works in collaboration with the Tulalip Tribes Legacy of Healing department to provide civil legal services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, or stalking.  TOCLA’s Domestic Violence Victim Advocate Attorney seeks to ensure the rights of all individuals to a safe and secure environment, and to empower those who are oppressed by reducing trauma and ending re-victimization resulting in the protection of future generations. We are looking for an applicant who is passionate about enforcing the legal rights of survivors of violence, who enjoys working closely with our clients in the Tulalip Tribal community, and who is a team player in our collaborative and supportive office.  Please see the enclosed job description for more information. Please send a resume, cover letter, and writing sample by June 24th.

The House Committee on Natural Resources

Entry Level Policy Aide. Application details are attached and are on our website here.

Cowlitz Indian Tribe

Attorney I or Attorney II, Full time, Longview, WA. Seeking a practicing attorney with experience in drafting legal documents, contract language, and testimony.  The person filling this position will assist with litigations for the Tribe, including negotiations, mediation, legal research, discovery, motion practice, oral argument, trial and appeal.  This person will also represent the Tribe in various legal proceedings as assigned. Closing: June 14, 2021. Please see the position description for more information.

Reno-Sparks Indian Colony

Senior Staff Attorney, Legal Department, Reno, NV.  The Staff Attorney provides legal counsel and representation to the RSIC Tribal Chairman, Tribal Council and Department Directors, Managers, and Supervisors on legal and quasi-legal matters as directed by the Tribal Chairman and Tribal Council, and directs and supervises the work of the Staff Attorney. To apply, please send your resume to Esther Sanchez, HR Director  esanchez@rsic.org or call 775-785-1303 for an application.

Native American Rights Fund

Paralegal, Boulder, CO. For duties, please see PDF. Open until filled. Apply here.

Staff Attorney, Boulder, CO. For duties, please see PDF. Open until filled. Apply here.

The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Legal Department

Associate Tribal Attorney, Cass Lake, MN.  The Associate Tribal Attorney assists the Legal Director with analysis of ongoing cases and legal issues in a broad range of subject areas central to the needs of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe.  The tribal attorney is responsible for preparing and analyzing contracts, legal documents, Tribal Codes, ordinances and Resolutions.  The attorney will represent the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe in tribal, State and Federal Court.  The position is open until filled and the application materials can be found on the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe website here. Please see the position description.

Navajo Nation Office of Legislative Counsel

RFP. Accepting proposals from qualified attorneys, Law Firms and tribal court advocates to provide professional legislation drafting services to the Office of Legislative Counsel (OLC)  on a board range of topics and subject areas. We invite you to submit a proposal to OLC by June 15, 2021 for consideration. Please see the RFP for more information.

Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe

Attorney, Darrington, WA. The purpose of the Attorney position is to provide legal service for the benefit of the Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe’s governmental programs and departments. The applicant must be committed to the goals and policies that work toward achieving the vision and cultural values of the Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe. The Office of Legal Counsel receives policy guidance from the Tribal Council on tribal governmental matters, and shall receive guidance on tribal court matters as provided for in the Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe Law and Order Code. The individual selected must be capable of making independent professional judgments and completing complex legal work in a timely manner. Interested applicants are encouraged to complete an application for employment and return it to jodi@sauk-suiattle.com.

Haida Corporation  

General Manager, Hydaburg, Alaska. The General Manager will manage multiple business enterprises, implement objectives of the Board of Directors, and develop business and investment opportunities, maintain all interests of the corporation in good standing. The general manager will supervise staff, prepare and manage the budget, and ensure all obligations of the corporation are met in a timely manner. Application closes June 30, 2021. Please see the job description for more information.

Western Organization of Resource Councils

Washington, DC Representative. WORC is seeking to hire two Washington, DC Representatives to join our team. WORC’s Washington, DC Representatives play a leading role in our federal policy work to hold coal, oil and gas companies accountable; create a just transition for fossil-fuel dependent communities; accelerate community-scale renewable energy; and win an agriculture and food system that is fair and just for family farmers, ranchers, workers and eaters. In addition to these issues, one of the DC Representatives will work with the Native-led organizations in WORC’s network to build a new area of work around Indigenous community priorities that may include energy democracy; MMIW; food sovereignty; health care; voting rights; tribal sovereignty, law and policies; and other issues. More information here.

Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA)

Staff Attorney/Native American Rights Team – Eagle Pass, Texas. Texas RioGrande Legal Aid’s Native American Rights Team seeks an enthusiastic attorney committed to providing justice to Native American and Indigenous clients residing in our 68-county service area, with a focus on those living in the middle border region – near Eagle Pass, Texas.   Our Native American Rights Team currently advocates for clients in custody proceedings under the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) and dedicated tribal criminal dockets. Click here to apply. Please see the position description for more information.

The Puyallup Tribe of Indians

RFP. Tacoma, Washington. Seeking proposals for providing civil legal aid services to its members. Representation may include those pertaining to family law, defense of non-criminal fisheries and hunting charges in Puyallup Tribal Court, and advocacy or assistance in fee to trust property or probate and others. Proposals to be submitted by Friday, July 9, 2021. Please see the RFP for more information.

The Quinault Indian Nation

Operations Attorney.  This position is eligible for telecommuting. This full-time staff attorney position will provide legal counsel and representation to the Nation’s day-to-day governmental administrative Divisions, Departments, and Programs with an array of legal services.  In addition, the incumbent may assist with Quinault Business Committee priorities as they relate to Operations.  The successful candidate will have experience preparing and reviewing legal documents, including legal opinions, code interpretation and enforcement, and contracts, and providing legal advice on a wide range of matters related to Operations. To apply, please submit a completed application (available at quinaultindiannation.com), cover letter, resume and two writing samples to OAG@quinault.org. 

RFP. The Quinault Indian Nation is soliciting proposals for a consultant to advise and assist with strategy and grant writing related to the tribal provisions of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARP). The Quinault Indian Nation seeks to leverage the ARP to the fullest extent to ensure self-sufficiency and tribal sovereignty. It is anticipated that the delivery of services under the contract will begin on July 1, 2021. Proposals must be received by no later than 11:59 PM Monday, June 14, 2021.

Hoopa Valley Tribe

Associate Tribal Attorney, Hoopa, CA, The Associate Tribal Attorney will serve in the Office of Tribal Attorney and will provide a broad range or legal services to the Hoopa Valley Tribal Council, Chairperson, tribal departments and entities, including consultation, research, drafting, representation in administrative proceedings, and other duties as assigned.
Application is open until filled. Link to required employment application here.

Senior Tribal Attorney, Hoopa, CA The Senior Tribal Attorney administers and supervises the Office of Tribal Attorney and will provide a broad range or legal services to the Hoopa Valley Tribal Council, Chairperson, tribal departments and entities, including consultation, research, drafting, representation in administrative proceedings, and other duties as assigned. Application is open until filled. Link to required employment application here.


Navajo Nation Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General

Attorney (Natural Resources Unit), Window Rock, AZ.  Under the general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General, and Deputy Attorney General. Provides legal direction to Navajo Nation Divisions, departments, Navajo Nation Council and committees regarding a wide range of legal issues, including statutory and regulatory compliance, contract and procurement issues, and intergovernmental relations; performs professional legal work in research, trial and other legal work as required. Confers with, provides advice to, and prepares advisory memorandums for various departments and branches of the Navajo Nation.  Assist in routine operations of Department of Justice. Other duties as assigned.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

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

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

Office of the Chief Prosecutor

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

Office of the Prosecutor

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

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

Navajo Nation Division of Community Development

Attorney (Chapter Unit), Window Rock, AZ.  Under the general supervision of the Assistant Attorney General within the Navajo DOJ/Chapter Unit, provides legal direction to the Division of Community Development regarding a wide range of legal issues related to Navajo Nation Chapters. Legal work related to representation of the Navajo Nation Government, as assigned by the Attorney General and the Assistant Attorney General, including legal research, negotiations, legal writing, pleadings, briefs, memoranda, resolutions and other documents for division, department, program assigned. Assist as needed in court appearances, research and writing, including drafting of appellate brief, for cases in Navajo Nation, State and Federal Courts.  This position is open until June 18, 2021 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Nottawaseppi Huron Band of The Potawatomi

Tribal Prosecutor/ICWA Attorney, Fulton, MI. Prosecution of crimes and civil infractions in the Tribal Court, which arise under the Tribe’s criminal and civil laws, including arraignments, motions, trials and appeals; Work closely with the Tribal Court Administrator and Tribal Judge(s) to improve the delivery of services within the Tribal Court and to assist the Court in case management and docket preparation; and more. Applications are due June 25, 2021 9:00AM ET. Send Letter of interest and resume/ curriculum vitae to: John Swimmer, Chief Legal Officer, 1485 Mno-Bamadzewen Way, Fulton, MI 49052 or John.swimmer@nhbpi.com.

Southern Ute Indian Tribe

Tribal Water Attorney, Ignacio, CO. Under the supervision of the Legal Department Director, attorney will serve as a member of the Tribe’s Legal Department, with principal responsibility for representing the Tribe on water matters. Where time allows, the attorney will represent the Tribe in other matters that require the Legal Department’s attention, including code review and drafting, litigation, contract review, and employment matters. This position is open until filled. To apply visit https://careers.southernute.com/pfund and see the position description for more information.

See previous posts.

Friday Job Announcements

Monica Williamson

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

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

The Northern Arapaho Tribe

Staff Attorney, Ethete, Wyoming. The Northern Arapaho Tribe is expanding its legal department. The staff attorney will work under the direction of the in-house counsel. This position will work directly with tribal programs and work on legal matters affecting the tribe at the direction of the Northern Arapaho Business Council and the in-house counsel. The Tribe is looking to fill this position immediately. The closing date for this position is June 1, 2021. Please send resumes to the in-house counsel at clare.johnson@northernarapaho.com. See the position description for more information.

Hoopa Valley Tribe

Associate Tribal Attorney – Hoopa Valley Tribe Hoopa, CA The Associate Tribal Attorney will serve in the Office of Tribal Attorney and will provide a broad range or legal services to the Hoopa Valley Tribal Council, Chairperson, tribal departments and entities, including consultation, research, drafting, representation in administrative proceedings, and other duties as assigned. Deadline to apply is June 3, 2021. Link to required employment application here.

Senior Tribal Attorney – Hoopa Valley Tribe Hoopa, CA The Senior Tribal Attorney administers and supervises the Office of Tribal Attorney and will provide a broad range or legal services to the Hoopa Valley Tribal Council, Chairperson, tribal departments and entities, including consultation, research, drafting, representation in administrative proceedings, and other duties as assigned. Deadline to apply is June 7, 2021. Link to required employment application here.

Lummi Indian Business Council (LIBC)

Staff Attorney I, Bellingham, WA. Staff Attorney I works within the Office of the Reservation Attorney for the Lummi Nation representing and assisting the Lummi Nation Child Support Program.  Job performance of the Staff Attorney I is evaluated by the Legal Director in consultation with the Lummi Child Support Program Director. Click here for the application and see the position description for more information.

Forest County Potawatomi Community

Health & Insurance Attorney, Milwaukee, WI.  This attorney will work with the tribal insurance department and the health & wellness center. Resumes can be emailed to: mary.wilkes@fcpotawatomi-nsn.gov. The application will remain open until the position is filled. Please see the position description for more information.

Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians

Federal Law Summer Internship, Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians Reservation (located in the northeastern San Diego County). The selected law student(s) will assist the Attorney General to research and draft Tribal ordinances, policies and resolutions; review and revise agreements; and research and prepare legal memoranda on a wide variety of legal matters handled by the office. Application is open until filled. This is a 10-week, full time, on Reservation internship (some telecommuting permitted). Please see the description for more information.

Reno-Sparks Indian Colony

Senior Staff Attorney, Legal Department, Reno, NV.  The Staff Attorney provides legal counsel and representation to the RSIC Tribal Chairman, Tribal Council and Department Directors, Managers, and Supervisors on legal and quasi-legal matters as directed by the Tribal Chairman and Tribal Council, and directs and supervises the work of the Staff Attorney.


United South & Eastern Tribes, Inc.

USET SPF Policy Analyst, Washington, DC (remote work available temporarily). Conduct advocacy on behalf of the collective interests of member Tribal Nations before all branches of the federal government, as well as other partners both within and outside of Indian Country; Develop and maintain an on-going communication between USET SPF and these entities; and more. This position is open until filled. The application link is here on Indeed. Please see the position description for more information.

The Wilderness Society

Senior Government Relations Representative, Energy/Climate. The Senior Representative will lead government relations strategies to advance key climate and energy policies for public lands, including rapidly phasing down fossil energy emissions, to achieve a climate goal of net-zero emissions from federal lands by 2030 and zero emissions by 2050, including advancing just and equitable policies that make our public lands a leading solution to the climate crisis.  Application Deadline: May 23.

Government Relations Representative or Senior Government Relations Representative, Land. The Senior Representative or Representative (depending on experience level) will lead government relations strategies to advance legislative and administrative protections for priority lands to help achieve The Wilderness Society’s goals of protecting 30% of US lands and waters by 2030 and ensuring that all people benefit equitably from public lands.  In addition to proposals for landscape conservation, this person will help defend against reckless mining on federal lands and support Tribes and Indigenous community partner efforts to advance protections for culturally significant lands, sacred sites and cultural resources on federal lands.  Application Deadline: May 23. Information on other open positions at TWS can also be found here.

University of Idaho-Boise

(2) Academic Success Visitors, Boise, Idaho. The University of Idaho College of Law seeks two entry-level or experienced faculty members to serve as full-time, temporary faculty members for the 2021-2022 academic year. These faculty members will teach academic skills courses, develop and administer academic support and advising programs, and provide individualized academic counseling and advising. The positions are open until filled, with a first consideration date of May 19, 2021. Apply here. Questions about the positions may be directed to Kristi Running, Associate Dean of Students-Moscow, at krunning@uidaho.edu.

Nevada Legal Services

Staff Attorney, Indian Law Program, Reno office or Elko office. Serve the surrounding communities in northern and eastern Nevada. Nevada Legal Services is a statewide non-profit that provides free legal assistance to low income Nevadans across the state. The Indian Law Program serves the 27 Native American tribes and colonies within the State of Nevada.  Applications will be considered on a rolling basis but no later than June 10.  Please see the position description for more information.

Maier Pfeffer Kim  Geary & Cohen  LLP

Associate Attorney, Oakland California. The position will remain open until filled. Qualifications include 2+ years of Indian/tribal law experience. Please see the position description for more information.

Patterson Earnhart Real Bird & Wilson LLP

Associate Attorney, Louisville, Colorado Office. This is a national law firm dedicated to the representation of American Indian tribes and organizations.  We represent tribes and tribal entities in a wide spectrum of services including business transactions, litigation, and governmental affairs in many forums, including state, federal and tribal courts. The duties and responsibilities for this position are more fully outlined in the attached pdf.  The job posting will remain open for 60 days, or until filled, whichever occurs first.

Litigation Associate Attorney, Louisville, Colorado Office. We represent tribes and tribal entities in a wide spectrum of services including business transactions, litigation, and governmental affairs in many forums, including state, federal and tribal courts. The duties and responsibilities for this position are more fully outlined in the attached pdf.  The job posting will remain open for 60 days, or until filled, whichever occurs first.

Alaska Legal Services Corporation (“ALSC”)

Anchorage Native Law Staff Attorney. ALSC is seeking a full-time staff attorney to provide legal services to Association of Village Council Presidents (“AVCP”) member Tribes and tribal members. The position is located in ALSC’s Anchorage office and primarily involves representation of tribal clients in state child welfare proceedings and enforcing the Indian Child Welfare Act in cases outside of the Bethel region, and may also involve litigating other Native law matters on behalf of AVCP Tribes and tribal members. Travel to rural areas may be required, public health guidelines permitting. Please see the position description for more information.

Bethel Native Law Staff Attorney. ALSC is seeking a full-time staff attorney to provide legal services to Association of Village Council Presidents (“AVCP”) member Tribes and tribal members. 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 Native law matters on behalf of AVCP Tribes and tribal members. The Bethel ICWA attorney will be serving clients in cases primarily heard in Bethel, Alaska courts, serving clients in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. The attorney will be supervised and supported by ALSC staff.  The Bethel ICWA attorney will be expected to manage a caseload of state court child in need of aid cases and will also have the opportunity to participate in appellate and impact litigation. Please see the position description for more information.

Navajo Nation Department of Justice

RFP. Under the direction of the Navajo Nation Attorney General or her designee, the Attorney(s) will provide professional Government Relations and Advocacy services to the Navajo Nation Office of the Attorney General. Due Friday, May 28, 2021 at 3 p.m. MDT. Please see the RFP for more information.

See previous posts.

Friday Job Announcements

Monica Williamson

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

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

Yee Ha’ólníi Doo

Executive Director, remote. Yee Ha’ólníi Doo (which does business as the Navajo & Hopi Families COVID-19 Relief Fund) seeks an energetic, visionary, and impactful Executive Director who will lead the organization in working to empower the Diné and Hopi people with the fortitude to overcome challenges like pandemics and climate change through traditional principles of self-reliance and interrelatedness.  The Executive Director must be able to work quickly and strategically to develop on-the-ground solutions to crises and challenges facing the Diné and Hopi people as they arise, and must also plan for long-term sustainable solutions to better position the Diné and Hopi people to respond to future challenges with increased resiliency.  The Executive Director must draw upon and put into practice Diné and Hopi cultural values and teachings in her or his work. The Executive Director will be the key management leader of Yee Ha’ólníi Doo. The Executive Director is responsible for overseeing the administration, programming and strategic plan of the organization. Other key duties include fundraising, marketing, and community outreach. The position reports directly to the Board of Directors. Closing Date: May 31, 2021 Visit navajohopisolidarity.org for complete job description. If you have questions, please call 1-833-956-1554. Please submit a cover letter, resume, and 3 references titled Executive Director to marci.nhfcr@gmail.com or by mail to Yee Ha’ólníi Doo, PO Box 3581, Flagstaff, AZ 86003. 

The Federal Public Defender

Assistant Federal Public Defender, Albuquerque, NM.  This position represents individuals charged with federal crimes.  We represent a large population of Native American and Latin American communities.  A law degree is required, and the successful applicant must be admitted to practice in good standing in the highest court of a state.  The closing date of the position is June 18, 2021.  All applicable information is in the attached job announcement.

White Mountain Apache Tribe

RFP. The White Mountain Apache Tribe is seeking proposal for a consultant grant writer to assist the Tribe in preparing applications and applying for grants from local, state, and federal agencies, and from the private sector, to develop and implement a Tribal capital improvement plan, assist identify and plan for community facilities, and address community infrastructure needs. The deadline for submissions hereunder is 5:00 P.M. Arizona time, on May 12, 2021. Proposals submitted after this time shall not be accepted. Please see the job description for more information.

Burns Paiute Tribe
Tribal Prosecutor, Burns, Oregon. A licensed attorney in good standing with a state bar association, have prior experience handling Indian Child Welfare cases, be familiar with Tribal laws and court procedures, and demonstrate awareness of the Tribe’s culture, values, and interest. Application is open until filled. Please see the job description for more information.

Count of Cochise

Attorney I, II or III – Legal Defender’s Office, Bisbee, AZ. 

ATTORNEY I: Under general supervision provides professional legal services of moderate difficulty; performs other legal services as assigned. Initiates, engages, and defends litigation; performs legal research; reviews and prepares legal documents; ren­ders legal advice to clients; performs factual investigations.

ATTORNEY II: Under general supervision provides professional legal services of considerable difficulty; provides other legal services as assigned.  Initiates, engages, and defends litigation; performs legal research; reviews and prepares legal documents; ren­ders legal advice to clients; performs factual investigations. Supervises junior staff; handles appeals. 

PLEASE NOTE: Willing to consider Rule 39(C) Applicants.

Procopio

Federal Indian Law Associate (Midlevel), San Diego, CA, Scottsdale AZ. Working with Tribal governments and businesses drafting tribal ordinances, compact negotiation, employment matters, resolutions, contracts, fee-to-trust applications, intergovernmental agreements and involvement in developing tribal programs. Application is open until filled.  

Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation

Associate Tribal Attorney, Smith River, CA. Under the supervision from the General Counsel the ATA serves the Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation in the administration of the legal affairs of the government, departments and enterprises. The Associate Tribal Attorney will complete professional assignments provides legal advice and representation to the Nation as directed by the General Counsel. Manages assigned caseload, ensures that applicable laws are followed, and that tribal sovereignty is protected and enhanced. Open Until Filled. Download application here. Please see the position description for more information.

Montana Budget & Policy Center

State-Tribal Policy Analyst, Missoula or Helena, MT (Location is flexible while we remain teleworking due to the pandemic. MBPC will consider candidates based elsewhere in Montana.) The Montana Budget & Policy Center (MBPC) seeks a full-time State-Tribal Policy Analyst to support our efforts to advance a policy agenda that works for tribal communities, primarily by performing research and analysis of state budget and policy decisions and conducting outreach to stakeholders in tribal communities. More details can be found in the job announcement. Open until filled. Application review will begin on May 17. 

Earthjustice

(2) Managing Attorneys in Seattle and Anchorage/Juneau, Northwest Office and Alaska Office. The Managing Attorneys will oversee their respective offices, and, will provide leadership for their growing teams currently comprised of attorneys and professional staff. They will develop and implement regional strategies that align with organization-wide strategic plans and programmatic and litigation priorities. The attorneys at Earthjustice have regional cases and often take on cases with national scope or address programmatic priorities outside of the region. It would also be important to note that the organization is open to candidates who do not focus on Environmental law.

The Lac Courte Oreilles Office of the Attorney General

Assistant Attorney General, Hayward, WI. Serves as an Assistant Attorney General for the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians. The Asst. AG provides legal advice and assistance to the Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Governing Board, tribal administrators, program and enterprise directors/managers, and boards/committees. Will prepare legal documents, including pleadings and legal opinions.  Serves as a Tribal Prosecutor for traffic citations, truancy, Child Welfare cases (tribal and ICWA), employment matters, conservation matters and other civil litigation.  Will provide legal representation in tribal, state, and federal courts of law. his position involves working on Indian Child Welfare matters in federal, state and tribal courts.  The AAG represents and advises council on legislative matters affecting the tribe in areas of child welfare, guardianships, etc.  The AAG provides legal services to tribal law enforcement and the LCO Public Safety Commission.  The AAG reviews and drafts contracts for legal sufficiency in related areas. The application can be found here: https://www.lcotribe.com/employment. Application deadline: May 20, 2021.

The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation 

Tribal Attorney, near Pendleton, Oregon. Provide services as guided by the goals and objectives under the CTUIR Comprehensive Plan and consistent with the responsibility of the Office of Legal Counsel. This Tribal Attorney position is assigned to represent and advise the CTUIR in its NAHASDA, low-come tax credit and other home ownership, development and advising supported by related funding sources. Apply via http://ctuir.org/tribal-attorney-2 Umatilla is a tribal preference employer. For more information, please see the job description.

The Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa

RFP.  Provide judicial services for the Band’s tribal court.  The Band expects to select one individual to serve as the Band’s Chief Judge.  The Chief Judge position is the Band’s primary trial court judge.  The current Chief Judge is retiring. The Chief Judge provides general supervision for the court; presides on motions and requests of the parties; schedules and presides over conferences, evidentiary hearings and bench trials; conducts necessary legal or factual research; and renders legal opinions. The Band’s ordinances are available at http://www.fdlrez.com/government/fdlordinances.htm.  Proposals must be received by 4:30 p.m. central time on Friday, May 28, 2021. For more information, please see the position description.

Jill Grant & Associates, LLC

Associate Attorney. Washington, D.C. Seeking an associate attorney with at least three years of experience. Jill Grant & Associates provides environmental counsel and representation to Indian tribes, tribal entities, local governments, and environmental organizations, and represents tribes on jurisdictional and administrative law issues. Experience and/or demonstrated interest in environmental law is required. Prior law firm experience is beneficial. Flexible office arrangements and remote work will be considered. We are an equal opportunity employer. Native Americans are encouraged to apply.  To apply, please submit: (1) a cover letter describing your interest in and qualifications for the position, (2) a resume, (3) a legal writing sample, (4) a list of references, and (5) a law school transcript by email to associateposition@jillgrantlaw.com.

Part-Time Attorney, Washington, D.C.. Seeking an experienced attorney looking to work part-time. Jill Grant & Associates provides environmental counsel and representation to Indian tribes, tribal entities, local governments, and environmental organizations, and represents tribes on jurisdictional and administrative law issues. Experience in environmental law is required. Prior law firm experience is beneficial. Flexible office arrangements and remote work will be considered. We are an equal opportunity employer. Native Americans are encouraged to apply.  To apply, please submit: (1) a cover letter describing your interest in and qualifications for the position, (2) a resume, (3) a legal writing sample, (4) a list of references, and (5) a law school transcript by email to associateposition@jillgrantlaw.com.

Environmental Policy Innovation Center

Legal Fellowship (12 month, paid), remote or Washington, D.C. Tribal and Federal Natural Resources Mitigation Law and Policy. For a recently graduated law student or very early career lawyer. American Indian and Alaska Native tribal members are strongly encouraged to apply. The fellow will work on various aspects of tribal natural resource law and federal policy opportunities under the Biden administration. The fellowship will focus on the Western U.S., with an emphasis on federal-level policy and the option to work on specific projects in partnership with individual tribes depending on the fellow’s interests. For more information, please see the job announcement.

Judicial Branch of the Navajo Nation

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. For more information, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. 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. For more information, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. 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. For more information, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. 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.  For more information, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. This position is open until filled.  

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

Principal Attorney, 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. Other duties as assigned.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Attorney Candidate, Window Rock, AZ.  Under general direction of Assistant Attorney General for the Litigation Unit, the Attorney General, and Deputy Attorney General, advises and represents the Navajo Nation Government in all areas of civil law before Navajo Nation, federal, and state courts and administrative tribunals, with a specific emphasis on labor and employment law. Duties also include legal research, pleading drafting, and settlement negotiation. Also reviews proposed disciplinary actions by Navajo Nation government programs for compliance with Navajo Nation Personnel Policies Manual and Navajo Preference in Employment Act.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Attorney, Window Rock, AZ.  Under the general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General, and Deputy Attorney General. Provides legal direction to Navajo Nation Divisions, departments, Navajo Nation Council and committees regarding a wide range of legal issues, including statutory and regulatory compliance, contract and procurement issues, and intergovernmental relations; performs professional legal work in research, trial and other legal work as required. Confers with, provides advice to, and prepares advisory memorandums for various departments and branches of the Navajo Nation.  Assist in routine operations of Department of Justice. Other duties as assigned.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Office of the Chief Prosecutor:

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

Office of the Prosecutor:

Senior Prosecutor, Chinle, Arizona.  Under the general supervision of the Chief Prosecutor, this position 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 April 30, 2021 at 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

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

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

Victim and Witness Advocate, Tuba City, AZ.  Provides assistance to victims of crime through securing intake assessments, identifying and reviewing/securing referrals for the immediate well being of the victim. Reviews criminal complaints, police reports, and referrals to determine appropriate assistance to the victims. Gathers factual information & historical data, reviews reports, interviews victims and prepares statements, prepare investigation reports, and work closely with prosecutor in the prosecution. Establishes, reviews, and makes referrals specific to the needs of the victim, including shelter, crisis intervention, medical, counseling, and transportation, to guide in recovery/healing. Assist with protective services for victims. Prepares victims for hearings. Maintain communication with victim, social workers/agents, law enforcement, and related services.  This position is open until May 14, 2021 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Department of Justice:

2021 Summer Law Clerk – Intern Positions. NNDOJ provides legal services to the Navajo Nation government, including the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial Branches, and to the 110 local governing chapters. Must be enrolled in a law school accredited by the American Bar Association Must have completed a law school course on Federal Indian Law. To apply, please submit the following: 1) a letter of interest; 2) resume; 3) law school transcript; and 4) a brief (5-10 page) writing sample to DOJ at general@nndoj.org.  Complete applications are due on Friday, April 30, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. Mountain Time. Those selected for law clerk positions will be required to complete a Navajo Nation Employment Application, which can be found at: http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/Forms/NNAPP09162016_Fill_In.pdf

The Office of the Navajo Public Defender

  • Senior Attorney, State barred, 4+ years’ experience
  • Attorney, State barred
  • Senior Tribal Court Advocate, no state bar necessary but must be barred with the Navajo Nation Bar and must have three years’ experience in the Navajo Nation Courts.

3 positions. Locations are throughout the Navajo Nation (AZ, NM, UT). Details are contained in the attached PDF.  Please send the Navajo Nation Employment Application, Cover Letter, and Resume to kathleenbowman@navajo-nsn.gov (the Director of the Office of the Navajo Public Defender).

See posts from May 5, 2021.

Job Announcements

Monica Williamson

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

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

The Lac Courte Oreilles Office of the Attorney General

Assistant Attorney General, Hayward, WI. Serves as an Assistant Attorney General for the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians. The Asst. AG provides legal advice and assistance to the Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Governing Board, tribal administrators, program and enterprise directors/managers, and boards/committees. Will prepare legal documents, including pleadings and legal opinions.  Serves as a Tribal Prosecutor for traffic citations, truancy, Child Welfare cases (tribal and ICWA), employment matters, conservation matters and other civil litigation.  Will provide legal representation in tribal, state, and federal courts of law. his position involves working on Indian Child Welfare matters in federal, state and tribal courts.  The AAG represents and advises council on legislative matters affecting the tribe in areas of child welfare, guardianships, etc.  The AAG provides legal services to tribal law enforcement and the LCO Public Safety Commission.  The AAG reviews and drafts contracts for legal sufficiency in related areas. The application can be found here: https://www.lcotribe.com/employment. Application deadline: May 20, 2021.

The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation 

Tribal Attorney, near Pendleton, Oregon. Provide services as guided by the goals and objectives under the CTUIR Comprehensive Plan and consistent with the responsibility of the Office of Legal Counsel. This Tribal Attorney position is assigned to represent and advise the CTUIR in its NAHASDA, low-come tax credit and other home ownership, development and advising supported by related funding sources. Apply via http://ctuir.org/tribal-attorney-2 Umatilla is a tribal preference employer. For more information, please see the job description.

Navajo Nation Office of Legislative Counsel

Summer Law Clerk – Window Rock, AZ. The Office of Legislative Counsel seeks a determined and motivated 1L or 2L for a paid law clerk position The Navajo Nation Office of Legislative Counsel provides legal service to the Navajo Nation Council and its Standing Committees, boards and commissions involving various areas of law and policy. Interested candidates should send a letter of interest, resume, law school transcript (unofficial) and a brief writing sample to Office of Legislative Counsel at olc@navajo-nsn.gov. Facsimiles will also be accepted at (928) 871-7576. If you have questions, please contact Chief Legislative Counsel, Dana Bobroff, at (928) 871-7166. The application deadline has been extended to May 5, 2021 at 5:00 MST.

Attorney. Work under the direction of the Chief Legislative Counsel. Duties include providing legal advice and legal representation to entities of the Legislative Branch, the Navajo Nation Council, its standing committees, boards and commissions involving various areas of law and policy. Work with other attorneys of the Office under supervision of a Principal Attorney and the general direction of the Chief Legislative Counsel. Knowledge of legal principles, as well as Federal Indian law, Navajo Nation laws, Navajo Nation Government and legislative processes in general required. Applicant must be a graduate of an accredited law school with Juris Doctorate; and State Bar Licensed in either AZ, NM, or UT, as well as the Navajo Nation Bar, within one year of employment. For more information please, see the position description at www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov or to apply, applications are accepted via email (apply@dpm.navajo-nsn.gov). Position is open until filled.

Yee Ha’ólníi Doo

Executive Director, remote. Yee Ha’ólníi Doo (which does business as the Navajo & Hopi Families COVID-19 Relief Fund) seeks an energetic, visionary, and impactful Executive Director who will lead the organization in working to empower the Diné and Hopi people with the fortitude to overcome challenges like pandemics and climate change through traditional principles of self-reliance and interrelatedness.  The Executive Director must be able to work quickly and strategically to develop on-the-ground solutions to crises and challenges facing the Diné and Hopi people as they arise, and must also plan for long-term sustainable solutions to better position the Diné and Hopi people to respond to future challenges with increased resiliency.  The Executive Director must draw upon and put into practice Diné and Hopi cultural values and teachings in her or his work. The Executive Director will be the key management leader of Yee Ha’ólníi Doo. The Executive Director is responsible for overseeing the administration, programming and strategic plan of the organization. Other key duties include fundraising, marketing, and community outreach. The position reports directly to the Board of Directors. Closing Date: May 31, 2021 Visit navajohopisolidarity.org for complete job description. If you have questions, please call 1-833-956-1554. Please submit a cover letter, resume, and 3 references titled Executive Director to marci.nhfcr@gmail.com or by mail to Yee Ha’ólníi Doo, PO Box 3581, Flagstaff, AZ 86003. 

The Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa

RFP.  Provide judicial services for the Band’s tribal court.  The Band expects to select one individual to serve as the Band’s Chief Judge.  The Chief Judge position is the Band’s primary trial court judge.  The current Chief Judge is retiring. The Chief Judge provides general supervision for the court; presides on motions and requests of the parties; schedules and presides over conferences, evidentiary hearings and bench trials; conducts necessary legal or factual research; and renders legal opinions. The Band’s ordinances are available at http://www.fdlrez.com/government/fdlordinances.htm.  Proposals must be received by 4:30 p.m. central time on Friday, May 28, 2021. For more information, please see the position description.

Jill Grant & Associates, LLC

Associate Attorney. Washington, D.C. Seeking an associate attorney with at least three years of experience. Jill Grant & Associates provides environmental counsel and representation to Indian tribes, tribal entities, local governments, and environmental organizations, and represents tribes on jurisdictional and administrative law issues. Experience and/or demonstrated interest in environmental law is required. Prior law firm experience is beneficial. Flexible office arrangements and remote work will be considered. We are an equal opportunity employer. Native Americans are encouraged to apply.  To apply, please submit: (1) a cover letter describing your interest in and qualifications for the position, (2) a resume, (3) a legal writing sample, (4) a list of references, and (5) a law school transcript by email to associateposition@jillgrantlaw.com.

Part-Time Attorney, Washington, D.C.. Seeking an experienced attorney looking to work part-time. Jill Grant & Associates provides environmental counsel and representation to Indian tribes, tribal entities, local governments, and environmental organizations, and represents tribes on jurisdictional and administrative law issues. Experience in environmental law is required. Prior law firm experience is beneficial. Flexible office arrangements and remote work will be considered. We are an equal opportunity employer. Native Americans are encouraged to apply.  To apply, please submit: (1) a cover letter describing your interest in and qualifications for the position, (2) a resume, (3) a legal writing sample, (4) a list of references, and (5) a law school transcript by email to associateposition@jillgrantlaw.com.

Environmental Policy Innovation Center

Legal Fellowship (12 month, paid), remote or Washington, D.C. Tribal and Federal Natural Resources Mitigation Law and Policy. For a recently graduated law student or very early career lawyer. American Indian and Alaska Native tribal members are strongly encouraged to apply. The fellow will work on various aspects of tribal natural resource law and federal policy opportunities under the Biden administration. The fellowship will focus on the Western U.S., with an emphasis on federal-level policy and the option to work on specific projects in partnership with individual tribes depending on the fellow’s interests. For more information, please see the job announcement.

See posts from April 23, 2021.