Friday Job Announcements

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

In the email body:

A typed brief description of the position which includes

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

California Indian Legal Services

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

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

Rothstein Donatelli LLP

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

Earthjustice

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

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

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

Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

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

Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians

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

Pueblo of Sandia in New Mexico:

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

The Hopi Tribe

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

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

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

Office of the Attorney General – Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians

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

Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe

Chief Judge. Port Angeles, WA. The Chief Judge is chief judicial officer of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribal Court, the trial court of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe. The Chief Judge is appointed to a four-year term by the Lower Elwha Business Committee, the elected governing body of the Tribe. This position is responsible for fairly and impartially hearing and deciding judicial matters within the jurisdiction of the Lower Elwha Tribal Court pursuant to the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribal Judicial Code, ordinances, regulations, and applicable Federal and local laws. The Chief Judge conducts hearings and trials and performs other judicial duties. The Chief Judge is also the administrative supervisor of all Tribal Court staff and as such is responsible for the efficient and effective operation of all aspects of the Lower Elwha Tribe’s trial-court-level judicial system and for proper administration of justice. The Chief Judge has no direct authority over the Lower Elwha Court of Appeals, which consists of Justices appointed by the Business Committee under contract. Closing Date: February 18, 2023.

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

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

San Francisco State University

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

Bay Mills Indian Community

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

CA Energy Commissions

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

Office of the Attorney General – Navajo Nation Department of Justice

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

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

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

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

Environmental Law Institute

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

Peebles Kidder

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

Click here for last week’s job announcements!

Friday Job Announcements

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

In the email body:

A typed brief description of the position which includes

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

Hobbs, Straus, Dean & Walker, LLP

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

Rothstein Donatelli

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

Bay Mills Indian Community

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

The Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan

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

Colorado River Indian Tribes

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

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

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

Cultural Heritage Partners

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

Native Organizers Alliance

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

Alaska Public Defender Agency

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

Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe

Chief Judge. Port Angeles, WA. The Chief Judge is chief judicial officer of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribal Court, the trial court of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe. The Chief Judge is appointed to a four-year term by the Lower Elwha Business Committee, the elected governing body of the Tribe. This position is responsible for fairly and impartially hearing and deciding judicial matters within the jurisdiction of the Lower Elwha Tribal Court pursuant to the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribal Judicial Code, ordinances, regulations, and applicable Federal and local laws. The Chief Judge conducts hearings and trials and performs other judicial duties. The Chief Judge is also the administrative supervisor of all Tribal Court staff and as such is responsible for the efficient and effective operation of all aspects of the Lower Elwha Tribe’s trial-court-level judicial system and for proper administration of justice. The Chief Judge has no direct authority over the Lower Elwha Court of Appeals, which consists of Justices appointed by the Business Committee under contract. Closing date: Open until filled.

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

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

Navajo Nation Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Navajo Nation Office of the Prosecutor

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

Senior Prosecutor. Crownpoint, NM. Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code and present major and complex litigation in District and Family Courts. Reviews citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; interviews witnesses, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; gathers and compiles evidence; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case. Prepares and presents criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; collaborates with law enforcement agencies; and negotiates settlement with opposing parties. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until filled.

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

Click here for last week’s job announcements!

Friday Job Announcements

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

In the email body:

A typed brief description of the position which includes

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

Morongo Band of Mission Indians

Litigation Counsel. Banning, CA. Under general direction of In-House Counsel, the Litigation Counsel will be part of the Legal Department’s function of delivering legal counsel, advice, and support as the legal advisor to the Tribe, including the Tribal Council, General Membership, all tribal administrators and department heads, and various committees and commissions on litigation and other matters, including,  but not limited to, providing attorney services to the Morongo Cheehun ‘Evra – Office of Victims of Crime Program (OVC), funded by grants under the federal Office of Victims of Crime. The duties of the Litigation Counsel will be divided 60% to legal services to the tribal government and 40% to OVC. Open until filled.

San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.

Paralegal. Highland, CA. Under the direction of the Director of Legal Operations and designated attorneys, Paralegals play a key role in providing legal-related assistance and administrative support for different functional areas of the organization including government, litigation, real estate, employment and labor, transactions and intellectual property management, as applicable based upon individual experience and need. The Paralegal role is an integral part of the Legal Department, supporting a team of attorneys and a legal operations team in enabling the efficient and effective delivery of legal services to Tribal government and enterprise partners. This Paralegal role offers an unparalleled opportunity to increase your professional network, gain valuable experience, and grow with the organization as we pursue strategic initiatives in 2022 and beyond. Open until filled.

New Mexico Environmental Law Center

Environmental Justice Staff Attorney. Albuquerque, NM. As a Staff Attorney, you will engage in legal, policy, and administrative advocacy, as well as coalition-building, fundraising, and media work. You will work closely with client communities to achieve client-directed priorities. You will also be responsible, in collaboration with the Executive Director and staff, for identifying, managing and advancing new campaign and litigation opportunities. Staff Attorneys are involved in policy development, advocacy, and larger development/fundraising initiatives that help to support and expand NMELC’s legal services and work. Closing date: Open until filled.

The Federal Trade Commission, Bureau of Consumer Protection

General Attorney (Trade Regulation). Dallas, TX, San Francisco, CA or Washington, DC. The Bureau of Consumer Protection and the FTC’s Regional Offices investigate and litigate civil actions to enforce federal consumer protection laws, including unfair and deceptive acts and practices related to COVID-19. Closing date: February 9, 2023.

Earthjustice

Associate Attorney. Washington D.C. We are accepting applications for Associate Attorneys to conduct legal advocacy and litigation with the Washington, DC office. The position requires 0-4 years post-law school legal experience. The attorney selected for this position will have the opportunity to play a key role in legal actions that can make a real difference to people’s health and well-being and in protection of important environmental values. Applicants should submit via Jobvite by Feb 12, 2023.

The United States Department of the Interior, Office of the Solicitor

Attorney-Advisor. Sacramento, CA. This position will primarily provide legal advice to the Bureau of Land Management in its operations in California and Nevada.  Legal issue areas include the entire range of environmental and natural resources laws applicable to the Bureau, including but not limited to the National Environmental Policy Act, Federal Land Policy and Management Act, and Administrative Procedures Act.  The closing date for this position is February 3, 2023.

National Council of Urban Indian Health

Legal and Policy Fellow. Remote. Fellows will have both internal and external responsibilities grounded in serving urban Indian organizations (UIOs) to advance the mission of NCUIH through policy, advocacy, outreach, technical assistance, and research projects. Fellows will report to the Director of Federal Relations and regularly work with NCUIH’s Director of Congressional Relations, Public Policy Counsel, and Vice President of Public Policy. Fellows’ will conduct legal research, analysis, and writing in various legal fields including health law, Federal Indian Law, and administrative law. Fellows will also have the opportunity to participate in legislative and regulatory analysis. Closing date: February 10, 2023. 

Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Indian Services.

Deputy Bureau Director. Washington, D.C. or Albuquerque, NM. This Senior Executive position serves as the principal executive expert advisor to the Director, Bureau of Indian Affairs concerning Bureau programs designed to promote the welfare and development of individual Indians and Indian communities nationwide.  Closing date: 02/20/2023.

The Western Environmental Law Center

2L Summer 2023 Law Clerk. Helena, MT and Eugene, OR. We are looking for bright and motivated individuals committed to public interest environmental law and to WELC’s mission and advocacy. The selected summer law clerks will work with WELC attorneys in all aspects of case development, including developing litigation strategies, conducting legal research, attending client meetings and court appearances, and drafting pleadings, briefs, memoranda, and other legal documents.  Applications received by February 6th will be prioritized.

Rothstein Donatelli LLP

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

Standing Rock Sioux Tribe

In-House Attorney. Fort Yates, ND. Provide legal advice, counsel and legal services to the Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Council, Executive Committees: (Judicial, Health Education & Welfare and Economics), Tribal Administration, and Tribal Programs as needed. 2. Render legal opinions on matters of concern to the Tribe, including but not limited to interpretation of the Constitution, Code of Justice and state and federal law. 3. Act as legal counsel for the Tribe in legal disputes with entities and/or individuals as the Tribal Council or administration shall direct. 4. Review, advise and assist in updating the Tribe’s Code of Justice to reflect current laws. 5. Act as representative of the Tribe in matters which have a legal impact upon the Tribe and at which testimony or representation is required to protect. 6. Perform other duties as assigned or delegated by the Tribal Council, Executive Committees or Tribal Administration, or requested legal issues by Tribal Programs. Open Until Filled.

Department of the Interior Office of the Solicitor

Attorney. Phoenix, AZ. Main duties: Provide legal services for matters pertaining to the various agencies within the Department of the Interior, primarily for, but not limited to, the Bureau of Land Management and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Closing date: 1/27/2023.

White Mountain Apache Tribe

Assistant Attorney General. Whiteriver AZ. Provides nonpartisan legal advice and representation as needed to the tribe, its officials, departments, agencies, offices, enterprises, and the Tribal Council and its committees. Stipulate assistance in accordance to civil and criminal matters, contracts and grants, resolutions and tribal codes, legal advice and opinions, and continuing legal education. Closing date: Open until filled.

Tribal Prosecutor. Whiteriver, AZ. Under general supervision of the Tribal Attorney General, the Tribal Prosecutor represents the White Mountain Apache Tribe before the White Mountain Apache Tribal Court on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation.  Administrate prosecutions, financial and statistical assessments, developmental and procedural matters, and trainings and consultations. Open until filled.

Big Fire Law & Policy Group LLP

Policy Specialist/Lobbyist. Washington D.C. This position is responsible to track and monitor key developments in the U.S. Congress, at the White House, and at federal agencies for applicability to clients; attend and analyze Congressional hearings and press events on behalf of clients; create written analysis and advice for clients based on legislative and executive activity relevant to Indian Country; schedule and attend Congressional and agency meetings, including coordination and preparation of materials for those meetings; and generate significant billable work for clients related to federal policy on both ends of Pennsylvania Avenue. This position also works with other members of the Big Fire policy team to help manage client meetings, events, visits, and D.C. client fly-ins. The position requires participating in firm client development initiatives and client service meetings and activities. Open until filled.

Secretary’s Indian Water Rights Office, Department of the Interior

Program Analyst. Washington, D.C. (or negotiable remote work location). Responsibilities include: providing liaison services to water rights settlement implementation and negotiation teams nation-wide; briefing policy-level leaders within the Department; facilitating meetings focused on negotiations with various parties to settlements including Tribes, States, and other governmental and non-governmental organizations; conducting research and analyses on issues related to Indian water right and related legal and policy matters; and other duties as more fully described in the job posting.  The application for this position is open until January 23, 2023.

Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians

Assistant Court Administrator. Dowagiac, MI. Assist the Court Administrator in the overall administration of Court operations and supervising and directing court clerks.  Primary responsibility to ensure that all of the clerical duties and responsibilities of the Tribal Court are met by providing clerical work supervision, monitoring & training.  Responsible for the day-to-day clerical operations of the Court and is the first point of contact for court clerks for operational matters, which includes clerical duties, scheduling, equipment, and technology issues. Provides leadership for special projects, assists with Court budgets and assists with timely implementation of organization changes, court policy and procedures. Closing Date: January 28, 2023.

Environmental Law Institute

Director, Climate Judiciary Project. Washington D.C.  ELI is seeking a dedicated professional to serve as the Climate Judiciary Project Director to lead the project team and, in partnership with the Vice President of Research and Policy, the Project Founder, and the Director of Judicial Education, develop and implement its strategic vision and plan. The CJP Director conducts program development and fundraising, and is a thought leader in the climate law and policy community. The CJP Director works extensively with both the project leadership team as well as organizational leadership. Application Deadline: 2/15/2023.

Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians

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

Navajo Nation Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Navajo Nation Office of the Prosecutor

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

Senior Prosecutor. Crownpoint, NM. Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code and present major and complex litigation in District and Family Courts. Reviews citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; interviews witnesses, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; gathers and compiles evidence; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case. Prepares and presents criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; collaborates with law enforcement agencies; and negotiates settlement with opposing parties. This position is open until filled.

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

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Friday Job Announcements

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

In the email body:

A typed brief description of the position which includes

  • Position title
  • Location (city, state)
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  • Closing date
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American Civil Liberties Union of Idaho

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

Rothstein Donatelli LLP

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

Quinault Tribal Court

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

Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation

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

Maricopa County Superior Court

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

Pinal County Superior Court

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

American Civil Liberties Union of Montana

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

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

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

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

Department of the Attorney General of Michigan

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

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

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

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

Nevada Legal Services

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

New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department

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

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

Tribal Nations Service Group

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

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

Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

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

Indigenous Justice Circle

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

The Environmental Law Institute

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

Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas

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

Muckleshoot Tribal Court

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

Alaska Legal Services Corporation

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

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

The Native American Heritage Commission

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

Department of Agriculture, Office of the General Counsel

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

Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians

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

Navajo Nation Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Navajo Nation Office of the Prosecutor

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

Senior Prosecutor. Crownpoint, NM. Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code and present major and complex litigation in District and Family Courts. Reviews citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; interviews witnesses, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; gathers and compiles evidence; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case. Prepares and presents criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; collaborates with law enforcement agencies; and negotiates settlement with opposing parties. This position is open until filled.

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

Click here for last week’s job announcements!

Friday Job Announcements

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

In the email body:

A typed brief description of the position which includes

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

Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians

Probation Officer. Dowagiac, MI. Under the general supervision of the Chief Judge, Court Administrator and Presiding Judge, perform supervision of adults and juveniles placed on probation by the Court.  Work involves regularly meeting with probationers to ensure compliance to terms of probation, and maintaining records of probationers’ activities and status.  Responsible for determining level of supervision necessary for individual probationers, providing support, referring clients to probation assistance programs, and conferring with law enforcement and court personnel in matters pertaining to violation of probation by clients.  It is estimated that fifty percent (50%) of the position’s time will be performing Probation Officer duties, thirty percent (30%) will be performing Court Officer duties, and twenty percent (20%) will be performing Court Staff duties. Percentages may vary based upon probation caseload, development of probationary functions, and development of Court Officer functions. Closing Date: Friday, January 20, 2023.

Associate General Counsel. Dowagiac, MI. Under the direction of the General Counsel to the Pokagon Band, the Assoc. General Counsel provides legal services and representation to the Pokagon Band, its agencies and its enterprises in a broad variety of matters, including contract law, employment law, administrative law, real estate matters, Indian gaming regulation, taxation, tribal jurisdiction, environmental law, cultural resource preservation, child welfare and legislation.  Occasional travel within and outside Michigan will be required. Open until filled.

RFP – Assessment of Department of Finance. Dowagiac, MI. More information can be found within the linked PDF. Closing time for receipt: December 30th, 2022.

The Native American Heritage Commission

Chief Counsel, CEA Level B. Sacramento, CA. The Chief Counsel serves as the principal legal adviser to the Executive Secretary and the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) providing advice and counsel to ensure internal compliance with control agency laws, regulations, and policies. The Chief Counsel plans, directs, organizes, and manages NAHC’s Legal Department staff in enforcing state laws that protect Native American cultural resources on public and private lands; approves high-level policy decisions for the rule making process; responsible for overseeing administrative hearings required under CalNAGPRA and enacting policy and regulations implementing those administrative hearings; and oversees outside litigation counsel regarding any NAHC litigation matters. Closing Date:1/17/2023.

Hoopa Valley Tribe

Senior Tribal Attorney. Hoopa, CA. This position serves in the Office of Tribal Attorney and provides a broad range of legal services to the Hoopa Valley Tribal Council, Tribal Chairperson, and various tribal departments and entities. Major responsibilities include: developing tribal policies and drafting ordinances, reviewing business contracts and facilitating economic development efforts, representing the Tribe in civil and administrative proceedings, and conducting negotiations with local, state, and federal agencies.  At least four years of experience practicing Federal Indian Law or representing Tribal Governments is required. The position is open until filled.

Yurok Tribe

RFP. Hoopa, CA. The Yurok Tribe Title IV-E Program is soliciting contractors to provide legal services regarding the child welfare process as the Minor/Non-Minor Attorney Services. Deadline: January 13, 2022.

Drummond Woodsum’s Tribal Nations Services Group

1L Summer Associate Program. Flagstaff, AZ. Drummond Woodsum’s summer program includes rising 2Ls and rising 3Ls from law schools from all over the United States.  Summer associates do not work in isolation- receiving assignments from and sending completed work back to a Summer Associate Coordinator.  Summer associates get a true sense for associate life at Drummond Woodsum.  Summer associates meet with the assigning attorney at the beginning of each project to discuss what is expected and again at the completion of the assignment to receive feedback on their work.  Summer associates are also invited to attend our monthly Firm Lunch meetings where various groups highlight what they’re working on, as well as smaller practice group meetings to get a better understanding of the type of work Drummond Woodsum takes on and how we approach such work. Closing date: January 27, 2023.

Environmental Law Institute

Senior Manager, Attorney Education. Washington, D.C. As a part of ELI’s Education team, the Senior Manager of Attorney Education’s primary objective is to help develop and deliver programs for members consistent with ELI’s mission, with a focus on developing ELI’s Annual Boot Camps and CLE events. Associated tasks involve tracking current events and legal policies relevant to environmental law and policy, as well as developing concepts and write-ups for trainings, master classes, programs, major conferences, and cosponsored conferences. Application Deadline: 1/6/2023.

Rothstein Donatelli, LLP

Associate Attorney. Santa Fe, NM & Tempe, AZ. The Indian law practice in Santa Fe specializes in federal Indian law, including gaming, economic development, water rights, land rights, civil litigation, and transactional matters. Tempe specializes in federal Indian law, including gaming, economic development, Indian Child Welfare Act, Indian health law, labor and employment law, and transactional matters. Rothstein Donatelli is committed to advancing the sovereign rights of Native American tribes. Open until filled.

National Indian Child Welfare Association

Development Director. Portland, OR. The development director for the National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) leads the overall fundraising and membership solicitation efforts including, but not limited to, individual gift solicitation, corporate solicitations, annual fund development, membership solicitations, corporate and foundation grants, tribal solicitations, fundraising event activities, and development communications. The development director works closely with key organizational partners including the management team, board of directors, and board of trustees in building a culture of philanthropy across the organization and NICWA’s stakeholders. The position will work remotely on Mondays and Fridays, and report to our Portland, Oregon office Tuesday-Thursday. The first round of reviews for all positions is January 16, 2023.

Member Relations Manager. Portland, OR. The member relations manager for the National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) is responsible for the development and implementation of NICWA’s member engagement program and services to support a robust and active membership. The position will work remotely on Mondays and Fridays, and report to our Portland, Oregon, office Tuesday – Thursday. The first round of reviews for all positions is January 16, 2023.

Training Manager. Portland, OR. The training manager for the National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) is responsible for ensuring that current, relevant, and accessible training curricula and information related to the health and well-being of Native children, families, and communities is made available to Native communities and tribal programs so they can provide effective services to Native children and families. The training manager is responsible for the planning and management of fee-for-service events, the NICWA annual conference, and our regional and virtual training institutes. The position will work remotely on Mondays and Fridays, and report to our Portland, Oregon office Tuesday-Thursday. The first round of reviews for all positions is January 16, 2023.

Events and Training Project Coordinator. Portland, OR. The primary purpose of the project coordinator for events and training at the National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) is to provide support to the events and training team with tasks related to annual conference, community-based trainings, and regional training institutes. The project coordinator will respond to community members via email and phone and will help with data entry through a variety of software. The position will work remotely on Mondays and Fridays, and report to our Portland, Oregon, office Tuesday – Thursday.  The first round of reviews for all positions is January 16, 2023.

Communications Specialist. Portland, OR. The communications specialist at the National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) is responsible for supporting the development and implementation of an effective communications strategy to increase the visibility and impact of NICWA’s work dedicated to the well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native children and families. This position reports directly to the communications director and works closely with staff across the organization to assist with developing and shaping messages for a range of written products, social media, website content, and earned media efforts. The position will work remotely on Mondays and Fridays, and report to our Portland, Oregon, office Tuesday – Thursday. The first round of reviews for all positions is January 16, 2023.

Michigan Civil Service Commission

Departmental Specialist 13 – BPHASA Policy Specialist (Native American Health). Lansing, MI. Employees in this job function as professional specialists with responsibility for a departmental program or specialty area; or as an administrative assistant to an administrator or executive. Positions are (1) designated as specialists by the Appointing Authority; (2) accepted and classified by Civil Service; (3) require advanced knowledge in the field of work; (4) responsible for highly complex assignments; (5) the scope of responsibility is significant; and (6) the job function has considerable impact within the department. Typically, positions in this job do not supervise. Closing Date: 12/18/2022.

Native Law Group

2023 Summer Law Clerk. Louisville, CO or Washington DC. This is a 40 hour/week in-office clerkship. Completed 2L year by Summer 2023. Native American Law coursework completed by clerkship start date. Excellent research abilities. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Closing Date: December 20, 2022.

Yakama Nation

Attorney. Toppenish, WA. The employee serves as attorney for the Yakama Nation Public Defender-Legal Aid Services Program and is responsible for providing quality professional legal representation and advice to tribal member clients in Tribal, Municipal, State and Federal Court systems or administrative agencies as assigned by the Lead Attorney-Program Manager. Employee is responsible for providing 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, as assigned by the Lead Attorney-Program Manager. Services include legal research, evaluation of potential cases, analyzes and preparation of accepted cases, motions, hearings, trials and appeals. The attorney may be appointed by the courts as a Guardian Ad Litem in custody matters. In addition the attorney will provide legal education law clinics for the public as assigned. Closing Date: January 3, 2023.

Earthjustice

Associate Attorney, Community Partnerships. New York, NY. We are accepting applications for an Associate Attorney to join the Community Partnerships Program in New York City. The associate attorney will join our work that prioritizes frontline communities who are burdened with the most pollution and environmental harms while being excluded from environmental benefits provided to other communities. We work with community leaders to challenge the environmental and social status quo, helping communities change the conditions in which they live. The ideal candidate will join our team by April 2023. Apply by: Jan 3 2023

Associate Attorney, Community Partnerships. Los Angeles, CA. We are accepting applications for an Associate Attorney to join the Community Partnerships Program in Los Angeles. The associate attorney will add cross-organization capacity but will focus on matters handled by their home office. The ideal candidate will join our team by April 2023. Apply by: Jan 8 2023.

Litigation Paralegal. Washington DC Regional. This position provides paralegal and administrative support for the litigation and advocacy activities of the DC Regional office. The Litigation Paralegal will report to a Supervising Senior Attorney. Apply by: Jan 3 2023.

Executive Assistant, Sustainable Food & Farming and Toxic Exposure and Health. New York, NY. The primary responsibilities of this role are to act as a seamless extension of the Managing Attorneys by providing effective executive support to each individually and by working collectively to provide program support to their teams. Apply by: Jan 3 2023.

Department of Attorney General – State of Michigan

A Communications Director. Lansing or Detroit, MI. his position is responsible for organizing and directing the priorities of subordinate employees, directing, and participating in the planning and coordination of internal and external public relations programs, and directing the dissemination of educational and promotional materials concerning the Attorney General’s Office. This position is responsible for overseeing the Department’s response to media inquiries, the drafting of Department press releases, AG press conferences and events and working to effectively use communication tools to further the Department of Attorney General’s policies and goals. Using considerable independent judgment, this position is responsible for the development and implementation of public relations strategies to help foster the Department’s outreach to the public. Closing Date: 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 22, 2022.

Chief Legal Counsel (Attorney Administrator 20). Lansing or Detroit, MI. This position serves as a legal advisor/chief legal counsel for the Department of Attorney General, providing direction for all of its litigation, including challenges to the constitutionality of State laws and complex class-actions for which the plaintiffs seek large monetary damages. This specialized litigation may involve multiple-Division practice areas and may require department-wide resources. This position will provide direct advice and guidance to the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General related to litigation issues.  Closing date: 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 22, 2022.

USDOL Employment and Training Administration

Chief for the Division of Indian and Native American Programs (DINAP). Washington, DC. Led by the DINAP chief, administers the Indian and Native American Program under Section 166 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, which provides funding to federally- and state-recognized tribes and tribal nonprofits to serve Native Americans. DINAP’s adult and youth programs develop academic and occupational skills, equip people with entrepreneurial skills, and promotes economic and social development of Native communities in accordance with their goals and values.  The DINAP Chief also serves as the Designated Federal Official for the Native American Employment and Training Council, a Federal Advisory Council. The posting closes Friday, 12/23/2022.

West Coast Region of NOAA Fisheries

Tribal Liaison. Seattle, WA; Portland, OR; Sacramento, CA; Boise, ID.  Serve as the West Coast Region’s (WCR) point of contact for tribes on tribal matters; facilitate conversations between tribes and program staff as needed. Ensure tribes receive advance notification of NOAA Fisheries initiatives, decisions, and regulations that may affect tribal trust resources. Serve as the region’s technical expert on tribal history, treaties, sovereignty, self-governance, protocols, customs and traditions, and natural and cultural resources for WCR staff. Advise WCR staff, supervisors, managers, and leadership on tribal trust responsibilities. Provide training to increase awareness and understanding of tribal norms, customs, best business practices, and federal obligations for WCR staff, supervisors, managers, and regional leadership. Maintain the Tribal Relations websites and provide tribal consultation guidance and resources to WCR staff. Work to establish and maintain strong cross-cultural relationships with tribal councils, chairpersons, officials, and technical staff to help the agency accomplish its conservation and stewardship mission. Participate in formal tribal government-to-government meetings, and consensus building between NOAA and tribal entities. Represent NOAA to external parties and coordinate external messaging between and among NOAA staff and leadership; maintain relationships with Tribal Liaisons/Coordinators in other federal agencies; maintain a regional database of current tribal council representatives and department chairs; and participate in cross-divisional teams, as appropriate. Closing Date: 12/19/2022.

Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians

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

Navajo Nation Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Legal Secretary (Water Rights Unit). Window Rock, AZ. Under the direction of the Administrative Legal Secretary and the Assistant Attorney General, provides general office support by greeting clients, answering telephone calls, and screening and routing calls, requests and visitors to Unit staff. Records messages accurately left by clients, callers, visitors, etc. Understands and utilizes software and technology necessary to perform duties, i.e. Microsoft Office, Outlook, Windows, Excel, PowerPoint, etc. Operates a variety of office equipment, including transcribing machines, calculators, copiers, facsimile machines, scanners, binding machines, printers, paper shredders and other types of equipment as technology changes. Schedules meetings, conferences, conference calls and other types of appointments. Prepares agendas and meeting materials. Prepares and assists in the preparation of notices, petitions, pleadings, complaints, briefs, summons, orders, affidavits and other legal forms and documents. Transcribes hearings, depositions, and minutes for use by attorneys. Develops and maintains case files for the Water Rights Unit. Prepares and/or assists with travel arrangements and required and related travel documents for Unit staff. Assists with administrative duties of other NNDOJ Units when assigned. Participates in general building maintenance in partnership with other NNDOJ Units. This position is open until December 01, 2022 by 5:00 p.m.

Navajo Nation Office of the Prosecutor

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

Senior Prosecutor. Crownpoint, NM. Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code and present major and complex litigation in District and Family Courts. Reviews citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; interviews witnesses, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; gathers and compiles evidence; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case. Prepares and presents criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; collaborates with law enforcement agencies; and negotiates settlement with opposing parties. This position is open until filled.

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

Investigator, Window Rock, AZ. Conducts thorough study of criminal complaints, police reports, conduct field investigations, collects evidence, and related documentation. Maintains daily log of activities/investigation progress. Conduct interviews of protentional and real witnesses and suspects, evaluates reliability and credibility; Completes field investigations on and off the reservation to locate suspects and witnesses, observe suspicious activity, trace financial transactions/records, and collect evidence. Conduct search and seizures, analyze forensic evidence, analyze financial documents, ability to recognize fraud/schemes and collect, classify, and enter into evidence findings. Have the ability to communicate verbally and in written form precisely. Prepare reports, legal pleadings criminal complaints, case chronologies, witness testimonies, and maintains statistics. Collects data, prepares sketches and/or diagrams of investigation crime scene, completes video taping, takes photographs, and recordings; recreate crime scenes, and preserve evidence. This position is open until December 20, 2022 by 5p.m.

Click here for last week’s job announcements!

Friday Job Announcements

To post an open Indian law or leadership job to Turtle Talk, send all of the following information to indigenous@churchc6

In the email body:

A typed brief description of the position which includes

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

Department of the Interior, Office of Inspector General

Investigative Analyst. Herndon, VA. Investigative Analyst will: Conduct investigative analysis in support of the initiation, development, and prosecution of criminal, civil, and administrative investigations. Work closely with investigative teams on various projects and cases in a support capacity, accessing various databases and analyzing information. Review investigative complaints, interview complainants, conduct research, and make recommendations on complaint disposition. Prepare a variety of written reports in support of investigative activities. Brief team members and managers on findings. Provide administrative support to the Office of Investigations. Closing date: 1/04/2023.

Yurok Tribe

Legal Interns for Summer 2023. Klamath, CA or Remote. The Yurok Tribe has the largest membership base of all California tribes, and we are dedicated to protecting our natural resources and way of life. As an intern with Yurok Office of the Tribal Attorney (OTA), you will gain experience working directly with Tribal leadership in areas of environmental law, gaming law, policy development, appellate briefing, and more. Law clerks are a part of our community, and they are invited to cultural events and in-the-field experiences throughout their internship. Applications will be accepted starting December 12, 2022, and will continue to be accepted on a rolling basis.

Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission

Summer 2023 Internship with Division of Intergovernmental Affairs. Odanah, WI. Desired Class Level(s): 2L, 1L, 0L, Masters, Undergraduate. Duties include research and writing on treaty rights implementation. The topic depends on the legal or policy issues requiring analysis. Examples may include analysis of water diversion application requirements under an interstate compact, drafting testimony to a state legislature on pending legislation, or researching and analyzing changes in state law and their potential impacts on treaty harvesting. If needed, housing will be available. Closing Date: 01/13/2023 by 4:30 PM CST.

Rothstein Donatelli, LLP

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

Hoopa Valley Tribe

Senior Tribal Attorney. Hoopa, CA. This position serves in the Office of Tribal Attorney and provides a broad range of legal services to the Hoopa Valley Tribal Council, Tribal Chairperson, and various tribal departments and entities. Major responsibilities include: developing tribal policies and drafting ordinances, reviewing business contracts and facilitating economic development efforts, representing the Tribe in civil and administrative proceedings, and conducting negotiations with local, state, and federal agencies.  At least four years of experience practicing Federal Indian Law or representing Tribal Governments is required. The position is open until filled.

Colorado River Indian Tribes

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

Berkey Williams LLP

Associate Attorney. Remote or Sacramento, CA. Firm members work across a variety of practice areas, including natural and cultural resource protection, land rights and acquisitions, water rights, ICWA, employment, healthcare, and governance.  Our expertise includes litigation in state, federal and tribal courts; advocacy before administrative and legislative bodies; drafting tribal codes, policies, and ordinances; and providing training for tribal leadership. Closing date Open until filled.

Navajo Tribal Utility Authority

Associate Attorney. Fort Defiance, AZ. Provides legal guidance and advice involving various areas of law. Reviews, researches, interprets, and prepares both written and oral opinions on a wide variety of legal issues. Drafts, reviews, and approves policies and procedures, regulations, bylaws, and other legal documents. Writes, develops and recommends company policy. Negotiates, prepares, and manages contracts related to construction projects, purchase power, finance, joint ventures and related utility service agreements.

The Office of the General Counsel (OGC) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

General Attorney. Seattle, WA. The incumbent may be asked to serve any of the client agencies within HHS. Attorneys in OGC-Region X (Seattle, WA) provide legal advice and litigation support to the Department in complex matters requiring extensive research and sophisticated analysis of administrative law, judicial decisions, and statutes and regulations. Attorneys must be competent in a wide range of legal skills, including analytical and problem-solving skills, experience preparing legal briefs and/or memoranda, experience in applying statutes, regulations, and policies; and experience providing oral and written advice, and the ability to relate effectively with clients. Open until filled.

New Mexico Legal Aid

Coordinator – Echo Volunteer Attorney Program. Albuquerque, NM. The Project Coordinator will work closely with the VAP Director to expand pro bono services to low-income New Mexicans in rural counties using the Project ECHO model. The coordinator will work with NMLA’s VAP Director and Director of Grants Administration, along with staff from New Mexico’s 13 judicial districts, to determine the areas of greatest need. In collaboration with the VAP team, the coordinator will promote the project and will plan and facilitate Project ECHO sessions. The Statewide Project ECHO Coordinator will meet with judges involved in the Rural Justice Initiative, as well as the pro bono committees from the primarily rural judicial districts. They will work closely with the VAP Director to recruit pro bono attorneys willing to assist in the rural judicial districts. Closing date: December 20, 2022, or until filled.

Paralegal – Staff Attorney – Statewide Intake, Referral and Advise Unit. Flexible location – Any of the (11) NMLA office in New Mexico. Interviewing applicants on legal issues, providing legal information and advice, referrals and brief services. Location:  Albuquerque, New Mexico. Closing date: December 20, 2022, or until filled.

Paralegal – Low Income Taxpayer Clinic and General Practice. Albuquerque, NM. Maintaining client information in a database, conducting intakes, communicating successfully and respectfully with clients by any available verbal or written means, collection of client data, drafting correspondence and preparing other written materials, providing litigation support.  Closing date: December 20, 2022, or until filled.

Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians

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

Navajo Nation Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Legal Secretary (Water Rights Unit). Window Rock, AZ. Under the direction of the Administrative Legal Secretary and the Assistant Attorney General, provides general office support by greeting clients, answering telephone calls, and screening and routing calls, requests and visitors to Unit staff. Records messages accurately left by clients, callers, visitors, etc. Understands and utilizes software and technology necessary to perform duties, i.e. Microsoft Office, Outlook, Windows, Excel, PowerPoint, etc. Operates a variety of office equipment, including transcribing machines, calculators, copiers, facsimile machines, scanners, binding machines, printers, paper shredders and other types of equipment as technology changes. Schedules meetings, conferences, conference calls and other types of appointments. Prepares agendas and meeting materials. Prepares and assists in the preparation of notices, petitions, pleadings, complaints, briefs, summons, orders, affidavits and other legal forms and documents. Transcribes hearings, depositions, and minutes for use by attorneys. Develops and maintains case files for the Water Rights Unit. Prepares and/or assists with travel arrangements and required and related travel documents for Unit staff. Assists with administrative duties of other NNDOJ Units when assigned. Participates in general building maintenance in partnership with other NNDOJ Units. This position is open until December 01, 2022 by 5:00 p.m.

Navajo Nation Office of the Prosecutor

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

Senior Prosecutor. Crownpoint, NM. Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code and present major and complex litigation in District and Family Courts. Reviews citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; interviews witnesses, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; gathers and compiles evidence; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case. Prepares and presents criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; collaborates with law enforcement agencies; and negotiates settlement with opposing parties. This position is open until filled.

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

Investigator, Window Rock, AZ. Conducts thorough study of criminal complaints, police reports, conduct field investigations, collects evidence, and related documentation. Maintains daily log of activities/investigation progress. Conduct interviews of protentional and real witnesses and suspects, evaluates reliability and credibility; Completes field investigations on and off the reservation to locate suspects and witnesses, observe suspicious activity, trace financial transactions/records, and collect evidence. Conduct search and seizures, analyze forensic evidence, analyze financial documents, ability to recognize fraud/schemes and collect, classify, and enter into evidence findings. Have the ability to communicate verbally and in written form precisely. Prepare reports, legal pleadings criminal complaints, case chronologies, witness testimonies, and maintains statistics. Collects data, prepares sketches and/or diagrams of investigation crime scene, completes video taping, takes photographs, and recordings; recreate crime scenes, and preserve evidence. This position is open until December 20, 2022 by 5p.m.

Click here for last week’s job announcements!

Job Announcements

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

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

In the email body: 

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

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


Schools and Organizations

University of Idaho College of Law

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

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

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

California Indian Legal Services

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

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

Columbia Riverkeeper

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

Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation

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

Crime Victims Legal Assistance Project

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

Earthjustice

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

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

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

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

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

Environmental Law Institute

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

National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center (NIWRC)

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

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

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

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

Navajo Tribal Utility Authority

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

Public Rights Project

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

Save the Pine Barrens 

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

The Friends Committee on National Legislation

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


Firms

Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein, LLP

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

Miller Nash LLP

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

Sonosky, Chambers, Sachse, Endreson & Perry LLP

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


Federal Government

Department of the Interior

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

Library of Congress

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

See previous post.

Job Announcements

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

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

In the email body: 

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

Job Announcements from Tribes

Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians

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

Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi

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

Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

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

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

The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Legal Department

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

Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe

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

Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Legal Department

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

Oglala Sioux Tribe

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

Lower Elwha Tribal Court

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

Omaha Tribe of Nebraska

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

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

Tohono O’odham Legislative Branch

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

Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs

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

Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians

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

Navajo Nation Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General

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

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

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

Navajo Nation Office of the Prosecutor

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

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

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

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

Job Announcements

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

In the email body: 

  • 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. 

____________________________________________________________________________

Yakama Nation

Attorney II. Toppenish, WA. Duties include: (1) Representing individual Tribal members in criminal matters in Tribal Court and/or outside courts; (2) Providing advice and assistance in civil matters and will preparation; and (3) Providing preliminary formal and/or informal consultation and legal advice to clientele. Please view the position description for further information. Interested candidates should submit a resume to Bevra Jacobson, program manager, bevra@yakama.com, or apply here.

Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission

Environmental Protection Policy Analyst. Olmypia, WA. Duties include provide policy analysis, technical support and coordination on emerging habitat issues for Commission and member tribes to advance habitat protection and restoration objectives necessary to the protection of tribal treaty rights and resources. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates should send a resume, cover letter, and writing sample by April 8, 2022 to: Wendy Bowman, HR, Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, 6730 Martin Way East Olympia, WA 98516-5540 or email to: wbowman@nwifc.org.

Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians

Legal Affairs Administrator. Peshawbestown, MI. Duties include ensuring the efficient, competent, and effective daily operations of the Legal Department in its role as legal counsel to the Tribal Council; and in its role as a legal resource to the various departments of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians. This position will provide direct legal administration within the legal department regarding all aspects of the GTB’s governmental environment. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates should apply here.

Oglala Lakota Housing Authority the (TDHE) Tribally Designated Housing Entity on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation

Request for Proposals – In-House Legal Counsel. The Legal Counsel will provide legal counsel services for OLHA Planning and Administration, Maintenance, Development, Construction, Housing Services, OLHA – TDHE projects in addition to other projects assigned and related to OLHA grants and accounting management. Please see the RFP for further information. Proposals are due April 17, 2022.

Jill Grant & Associates, LLC

Attorney. Washington, D.C.. Seeking an experienced environmental and Indian law attorney. We provide environmental counsel and representation to Indian tribes, tribal entities, local governments, and environmental organizations, and also represent tribes on jurisdictional and administrative law issues. At least seven years of experience with environmental and Indian law is required. Flexible office arrangements and remote work will be considered. Please see the position description for more information and how to apply. The position is open until filled.

Associate Attorney. Washington, D.C.. Seeking an associate attorney with at least three years of experience. Experience and/or demonstrated interest in environmental law is required. Flexible office arrangements and remote work will be considered. Please see the position description for more information and how to apply. The position is open until filled.

Hoopa Valley Tribal Court

Request for Qualifications – Attorney. Humboldt County, CA. The Program Attorney will consult regularly with Client and will promptly notify Client of significant developments. Major strategy decisions regarding the conduct of the case in any and all cases shall be made by Client and the Program Attorney acting in consultation and conjunction with one another. The Program Attorney may decline to take a particular course of action if it would be unlawful or unethical. Client understands that the Program Attorney cannot and has not made any guarantee regarding the outcome of the matter. Statements may be sent to following: Lisa Sanderson, Victims of Crime Program Director, Hoopacourt.advocatedirector@gmail.com by April 8, 2022.

Department of the Interior, Office of the Solicitor

Attorney-Adviser. Albuquerque, NM. Duties include: (1) Providing legal research, analysis, advice and representation to the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and other officials of the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI); (2) Representing FWS in administrative hearings or appeals, as well as assisting the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) in representing FWS in federal, state, or tribal judicial proceedings; (3) Providing written and oral opinions on Federal Administrative Law topics, including Fiscal/Appropriations Law, federal contracting, and acquisition laws, agency delegations and authority, partnerships with non-public entities, and similar topics; (4) and Assisting the Solicitor’s office and FWS with compliance with other statutes, such as the Freedom of Information Act and Privacy Act. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates should apply here by March 28, 2022.

Catawba Nation Request for Proposals

Bailiff. Rock Hill, SC. Duties include: (1) Screening the public (attorneys, defendants, etc.) at the front door to ensure that they do not have weapons which could be used to harm the employees, public or themselves while in the court area; (2) Responding as necessary to remove the public or others if they are in unauthorized areas or are causing a disturbance to the public or employees of the Court and the Tribe; (3) Supervising the loading/unloading and security of prisoners transported to and from Court; (4) Standing watch in open court and assisting as deemed necessary by the In-Court Clerk and sitting Judge; (4) Ensuring the security of the In-Court Clerk, sitting Judge, attorneys, public and defendants as necessary during open court; and (5) Serving Protective Orders and other relevant court paperwork to defendants/attorneys at the Judge’s instruction. Please view the position description for further information. Interested candidates should deliver three copies of the proposal by 5:00 pm, March 25, 2022, to: Catawba Indian Nation, Attn: Meredith Jolin, 996 Avenue of the Nations, Rock Hill, SC 29730.

Catawba Indian Nation Tribal Court Judge. Rock Hill, SC. Duties include providing substance abuse treatment, supervision and drug testing services to Catawba Citizens and members of other federally recognized tribes. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates should deliver three copies of the proposal by 5:00 pm, March 25, 2022, to: Catawba Indian Nation, Attn: Meredith Jolin, 996 Avenue of the Nations, Rock Hill, SC 29730.

Tulalip Office of Civil Legal Aid 

Paralegal. Tulalip, WA. Assists and relieves the attorneys of administrative and legal-oriented, clerical functions. Under the supervision of the TOCLA Program Manager or designee, this position will provide extensive administration and legal assistance to the attorneys and related staff in the Tulalip Office of Civil Legal Aid. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates should apply here.

Sonosky, Chambers, Sachse, Endreson, & Perry LLP

Associate Attorney. San Diego, CA. Interested applicants should send the following to Kathryn Wray at kwray@sonosky.com (please also copy Lynne Hernandez at lhernandez@sonoskysd.com): Cover letter; Resume; Law School Transcript; and Writing sample (a writing sample relevant to our practice area is preferred, but not necessary). This position is open until filled. More detail about the firm is available at www.sonosky.com.

Native American Rights Fund

Paralegal. Boulder, CO. Duties include: (1) Management of hard copy and electronic documents; (2) Prepare, review, and analyze documents for and in response to production requests; (3) Perform legal research and factual research; (4) Responsible for all aspects of discovery and trial support including gathering and organizing documents, attending meetings, preparing exhibits, taking notes, photocopying and scanning, ensuring the availability of necessary documents and supplies, and running trial presentation equipment and software; and (5) Assist with preparation of pleadings, motions, briefs, and other documents for use in trial and appellate courts, administrative agencies or other venues. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates should submit via email a cover letter, complete resume, and three references to: Sarah Palacios Human Resources & Office Administrator, Native American Rights Fund, Palacios@narf.org. The position is open until filled.

Paralegal. Washington, DC. Duties include: (1) Management of hard copy and electronic documents; (2) Prepare, review, and analyze documents for and in response to production requests; (3) Perform legal research and factual research; (4) Responsible for all aspects of discovery and trial support including gathering and organizing documents, attending meetings, preparing exhibits, taking notes, photocopying and scanning, ensuring the availability of necessary documents and supplies, and running trial presentation equipment and software; and (5) Assist with preparation of pleadings, motions, briefs, and other documents for use in trial and appellate courts, administrative agencies or other venues. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates should submit via email a cover letter, complete resume, and three references to: Sarah Palacios Human Resources & Office Administrator, Native American Rights Fund, Palacios@narf.org. The position is open until filled.

California Indian Legal Services

Staff Attorney. Escondido, CA. We are looking for a person currently licensed to practice in California to carry a full caseload that includes tribal representation in juvenile dependency cases, estate planning for Native American individuals, code drafting, assisting with tribal elections, and more. Experience in federal Indian law is strongly preferred. Additional information about California Indian Legal Services can be found on our web site: www.calindian.org. The position is available now for immediate hiring and will remain open until filled.

Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians

Assistant General Counsel/Assistant Prosecutor. Watersmeet, MI. This position will split their time between duties of Assistant General Counsel and Assistant Prosecutor. Under the direction of the General Counsel, the Assistant General Counsel provides legal services and representation to the Tribe, its agencies, and its enterprises in a broad variety of matters, including contract law, employment law, administrative law, real estate matters, Indian gaming regulation, taxation, tribal jurisdiction, environmental law, cultural resource preservation, child welfare, and legislation. Under the supervision of the Tribal Prosecutor, the applicant will perform work of complex difficulty involving the prosecution of all domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking cases in Tribal Court, providing information and guidance to police officers in the areas of proper law and procedure, and will aid in the creation of an education program for tribal and local police officers regarding the effective investigation of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking cases involving Native Americans. Though we are looking for applicants with experience in one or more of the listed fields, you do not need experience in all the listed fields to be a good candidate. Please see the position description for more information. Posting closes April 1, 2022. Please see the full posting and application here. All applicants should complete an application and email a resume to hr@lvd-nsn.gov.

Office of the Secretary of the Interior, Indian Affairs

Director of Congressional and Legislative Affairs. Washington, DC. Duties: 1) Manages one (1) Office staff member to coordinate activities, including the review and effective analysis of legislation to support the varying needs of Indian Affairs (IA); 2) Renders expert advice regarding the effect of such legislation on IA programs and Indian tribes; 3) Advises on the background and legislative history and exercises influence in effecting changes and revisions, as necessary, to support the development and conformance with IA policy; 4) Manages the review of reports and correspondence pertaining to congressional and legislative matters for conformance with IA policy; 5) Maintains consistent, two-way communication regarding legislative matters as the primary IA liaison with IA officials; 6) Represents IA principals in its dealing and negotiations with Congress; 7) Appears before committees of Congress as an expert witness to justify the stance of IA and the Department, as requested; 8) Manages coordination with senators and representatives and their staff members to advise, assist, and furnish them with approved information and to discuss basic data they may require in their consideration of legislation. Closing date: 03/28/2022. Additional details available here: https://go.usa.gov/xzm7r.

Tohono O’odham Nation Office of Attorney General

Deputy Attorney General. Sells, AZ. Duties include: (1) Providing legal advice and representation to all officials, agencies, departments, divisions and branches of the Tohono O’odham Nation; (2) Representing the Nation in all legal proceedings, and in matters that affect the legal interests of the Nation; and (3) Assisting the Attorney General in matters affecting the legal interests of the Nation. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates should submit a resume to Eunice.Grana@tonation-nsn.gov or apply at Tohono Oodham Nation Jobs.

Principal Tribal Court Advocate – Office of the Attorney General. Window Rock, AZ. Duties include: (1) Performing 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: Presenting child support enforcement cases before the Office of Hearings and Appeals; (3) Participating in case staffing with Child Support Enforcement officers; and (4) Providing 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) – Office of the Attorney GeneralWindow Rock, AZ. Duties include: (1) Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, professionally representing 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) Working 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; and (3) Providing legal advice on all water rights matters to the Office of the President and Vice President, the Office of the Speaker, the Navajo Nation council, and its committees and subcommittees and the Navajo Nation Water Rights commission (NNWRC) to ensure that the water rights of the Navajo Nation are effectively pursued and protected.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Senior Programmer Analyst – Office of the Attorney General. Window Rock, AZ. Duties include: (1) Under general direction of the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, performing a variety of complex duties such as installing, programming, maintaining, and saving of organization’s digital information within the Office of the Attorney General; (2) Serving as a resource person with regard to matters relating to information systems, development and implementation of security controls, efficient use and maintenance of system and equipment; (3) Facilitating implementation management information systems; (4) Installing and maintaining servers on local area networks; (5) Performing network device configurations, workstation set ups, and assigning nodes or network address definitions; installs and monitors performance of servers on local area networks; and (6) Maintaining knowledge of current trends in hardware and software technology relating to the practice of law, selecting the most feasible and economic methods to operate existing system. This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Attorney (Water Rights Unit) – Office of the Attorney General. Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General. Duties include: (1) Representing the Nation on water rights matters, including the adjudication of water rights in administrative, state and federal courts for the purpose of securing and protecting the Nation’s water rights; (2) Working directly and indirectly on settlement negotiations concerning the Nation’s water rights, including the implementation of successful settlements; (3) Working closely with legal and technical staff within the NNDOJ Water Rights and Natural Resources Units, Department of Water Resources, Water Management Branch, other programs within the Nation, contract counsel, and with consultants retained to provide technical support or to serve as expert witnesses; (4) Providing legal work, legal research, and preparing legal memorandums, briefs, pleadings and other documents necessary for litigation and settlement purposes; and (5) Drafting, reviewing, analyzing and interpreting judicial decisions, legislation, contracts, leases, permits and other related documents. This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Senior Attorney, (Human Services/Government Unit). Under general direction of Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General, and Deputy Attorney General. Duties include: (1) Providing legal direction to Navajo Nation Division, 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; (2) Performing professional legal work in research, trial and other legal work; (3) Conferring with, providing advice to, and preparing advisory memorandums for various departments and branches of the Navajo Nation; (4) Preparing interpretations of new legislation and judicial decisions; (5) Reviewing contracts, leases, permits and related documents; (6) Interviewing witnesses, complainants, and other on a variety of legal matters; (7) Conducting legal research, preparing briefs, pleadings and other legal documents; and (8) Assisting in routine operations of Department of Justice. This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Prosecutor – Office of the ProsecutorKayenta, AZ. Duties include: (1) Representing the interest of the Navajo Nation in juvenile adjudications, dependencies, Children in Need of Supervision (CHNS); (2) Researching and studying litigation of juvenile proceedings and child neglect cases; (3) Preparing oral arguments, gathering facts and data, determining if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; (4) Attending juvenile related hearings in Navajo Nation Courts; (5) Conducting legal research, drafting complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; (6) Preparing a legal strategy; and (7) Making decisions in sensitive case and seeking assistance as needed in the juvenile matter. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Senior Prosecutor – Office of the Prosecutor. Shiprock, NM. Duties include: (1) Representing the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code; (2) Reviewing citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; (3) Interviewing witnesses, gathering facts and data, determining if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; (4) Conducting legal research, drafting complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; (5) Preparing a legal strategy; (6) Preparing and presenting criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; (7) Preparing legal memoranda, briefs, motions, and other required documents for court presentation; (8) Providing training to Prosecutors and Juvenile Presenting Officers and on request to law enforcement personnel; (9) Collaborating with law enforcement agencies; (10) Presenting major and complex litigation in District and Family Courts; This position is sedentary with a potential for high levels of stress. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Chief Prosecutor. Window Rock, AZ. Duties include: (1) Performing administrative, managerial, and prosecutor work in directing the Office of the Prosecutor and component districts including White Collar Crime; (2) Administering short and long range planning, organizing, directing, strategic planning for annual external and supplemental budgets; (3) Coordinating and evaluating the overall effectiveness of the assigned program office and districts; (4) Adhering to the Plan of Operating and establishing annual goals and objectives, and making necessary amendments; (5) Preparing and presenting the annual budget during the annual budget process; (6) Conducting staff and program evaluations, ensuring the appropriate services are effectively and efficiently addressed; (7) Addressing personnel recruitment, interviews, hiring, and promotions; (8) Supervising all professional at-will employees and regular status employees; and (9) Promoting and maintaining public relations, representing the interest of the Navajo Nation and the Office of the Prosecutor(s) on a local, state, national, tribal and related levels, attending meetings, serving on committees, task forces, and other related groups, overseeing the management and in expenditures of the general and if applicable external funds ensuring compliance with financial requirements. Please see the position description for further information. This position is open until March 30, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Attorney. Window Rock, AZ. Under supervision of the Chief Prosecutor/Deputy Chief Prosecutor represents the interest of the Navajo Nation government. Provides and assists several district prosecutor offices in prosecution of criminal and civil cases representing the interests of the Navajo Nation government. Will attend arraignments, as needed; trials, adjudications, child dependency adjudications, motion hearings, sentencing/disposition hearings, pretrial conferences, preliminary hearings, and other related issues to court attendance; prepares all required legal documents; reviews investigative reports, legal pleadings from defense counsel, law enforcement reports and related documents; determines nature of the criminal offense; establishes case plan with law enforcement personnel from various governmental agencies on most serious criminal offenses such as vehicular homicide, sexual assault, aggravated batteries, child neglect or spousal abuse, etc.; assigns case plans; provides legal guidance and advice to law enforcement personnel in proceeding with investigation; prepares and obtains search warrants as necessary, conducts follow ups on cases and elements of cases, conducts legal research, review criminal complaints, interview witnesses, included but not limited to other legal matters. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until March 10, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., 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 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 07, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Attorney. Window Rock, AZ.  Under supervision of the Chief Prosecutor/Deputy Chief Prosecutor represents the interest of the Navajo Nation government. Provides and assists several district prosecutor offices in prosecution of criminal and civil cases representing the interests of the Navajo Nation government. Will attend arraignments, as needed; trials, adjudications, child dependency adjudications, motion hearings, sentencing/disposition hearings, pretrial conferences, preliminary hearings, and other related issues to court attendance; prepares all required legal documents; reviews investigative reports, legal pleadings from defense counsel, law enforcement reports and related documents; determines nature of the criminal offense; establishes case plan with law enforcement personnel from various governmental agencies on most serious criminal offenses such as vehicular homicide, sexual assault, aggravated batteries, child neglect or spousal abuse, etc.; assigns case plans; provides legal guidance and advice to law enforcement personnel in proceeding with investigation; prepares and obtains search warrants as necessary, conducts follow ups on cases and elements of cases, conducts legal research, review criminal complaints, interview witnesses, included but not limited to other legal matters. This position is open until March 15, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Senior Prosecutor. Tohajiilee, NM.  Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code; reviews citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; interviews witnesses, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; gathers and compiles evidence; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case. Prepares and presents criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; performs extensive legal research. Attends staff meetings, training, law seminars and workshops; provides training to Prosecutors and Juvenile Presenting Officers and on request to law enforcement personnel; collaborates with law enforcement agencies; negotiates settlement with opposing parties. Present major and complex litigation in District and Family Courts; perform extensive legal research; and perform other work-related tasks/assignments as assigned. This position is sedentary with a potential for high levels of stress.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until March 15, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Prosecutor. Window Rock, AZ.  Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code; reviews citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; interviews witnesses, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; gathers and compiles evidence; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case. Prepares and presents criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; performs extensive legal research.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until March 22, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Supreme Court Law ClerkSupreme Court of the Navajo Nation, Window Rock, AZ. This position analyzes supreme court cases; conducts legal research; drafts opinions and orders; and provides legal advice related to appellate cases, petitions, notices and other documents filed with the Navajo Nation Supreme Court. For more information, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. This position closes March 31, 2022.
Judicial Hearing Officer, Chinle Judicial District, Chinle, Ariz. Under supervision of the Chief Justice, exercises authority to preside over hearings and dispositions involving the Domestic Abuse Protection Act and Álchíní Bi Beehaz’áannii Act occurring within the respective jurisdiction of the District Courts of the Navajo Nation; performs related work as assigned. The JHO will engage in legal research and writing in child welfare, domestic abuse, temporary minor or adult guardianship, child custody and other family matters. One Year Grant Funded with Benefits. For more information, please visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. This position is open until filled.

Job Announcements

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

In the email body: 

  • 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. 

____________________________________________________________________________

Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians

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

White House Council on Native American Affairs

Special Assistant. Location Negotiable After Selection, United States. Duties: 1) Advises the White House Council on Native American Affairs (WHCNAA) Executive Director on the planning, developing, organizing, coordinating and oversight of the implementation of inter-agency policies and deliverables; 2) Maintains liaison with Federal agencies in the development of WHCNAA deliverables; 3) Leads and supports inter-agency efforts to improve conditions for Tribal communities; 4) Develops and implements new inter-agency strategies and recommendations to advance tribal priorities; 5) Provides technical assistance to Tribes and individuals regarding the various resources available across the federal government; 6) Employs project management skills to keep track of multiple deliverables and projects across the various WHCNAA Committees and adjusts work plans for project accomplishment; 7) Assists in producing briefings, decision memorandum and background papers on a wide variety of issues. Closing date: 03/18/2022.  Additional details available here: https://go.usa.gov/xz5Yj.

Advocacy Corps

Advocacy Corps Organizers – The Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL). Washington, DC. This is a program that trains young adults ages 19-30 to work in their own communities to organize peers to lobby Congress to address the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People and support the Violence Against Women Act. Participating in the Advocacy Corps Program gives you the opportunity to connect with local activists, learn how to effectively communicate with members of Congress, and affect lasting change on some of the most pressing issues facing the United States. Organizers receive a stipend over the course of the program and Recruit local volunteers, Meet with members of Congress, Organize others to meet with members of Congress and their staff, Write letters to the editor and op-eds, and Mobilize people to come to Washington D.C. Applications are due April 11th. Apply today!

Staff Attorney – 2 Positions. Santa Ana Pueblo, NM. NAP handles 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. NAP conducts outreach to tribal and Pueblo communities. Additionally, NAP sometimes handles poverty law issues involving consumer and family law matters in forums other than tribal courts.  Often involves travel throughout NM.  Full job description and instructions can be found here:  https://newmexicolegalaid.isolvedhire.com/jobs/512400.html.  The positions are open until filled.

Legal Aid – Paralegal. Santa Ana Pueblo, NM. The Paralegal may be required to conduct applicant intakes, collect client data, and provide litigation support. The position will be based with the Native American Program located in Santa Ana but may require occasional travel within the state.  NAP handles 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. Full job description and instructions can be found here: https://newmexicolegalaid.isolvedhire.com/jobs/320906.html. The position is open until filled.

The National Judicial College

National Tribal Judicial Center Program Attorney. Reno, NV. This position develops, implements and continually strives to improve continuing education programs for tribal judges and tribal court professionals. The National Tribal Judicial Center Program Attorney identifies, recruits, develops and evaluates faculty and drafts curricula and grant applications to support tribal programs. Please see the position description for further information here and here. Interested candidates should email a cover letter and resume to NJC-HR@judges.org.

Principal Tribal Court Advocate – Office of the Attorney General. Window Rock, AZ. Duties include: (1) Performing 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: Presenting child support enforcement cases before the Office of Hearings and Appeals; (3) Participating in case staffing with Child Support Enforcement officers; and (4) Providing 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) – Office of the Attorney GeneralWindow Rock, AZ. Duties include: (1) Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, professionally representing 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) Working 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; and (3) Providing legal advice on all water rights matters to the Office of the President and Vice President, the Office of the Speaker, the Navajo Nation council, and its committees and subcommittees and the Navajo Nation Water Rights commission (NNWRC) to ensure that the water rights of the Navajo Nation are effectively pursued and protected.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Senior Programmer Analyst – Office of the Attorney General. Window Rock, AZ. Duties include: (1) Under general direction of the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, performing a variety of complex duties such as installing, programming, maintaining, and saving of organization’s digital information within the Office of the Attorney General; (2) Serving as a resource person with regard to matters relating to information systems, development and implementation of security controls, efficient use and maintenance of system and equipment; (3) Facilitating implementation management information systems; (4) Installing and maintaining servers on local area networks; (5) Performing network device configurations, workstation set ups, and assigning nodes or network address definitions; installs and monitors performance of servers on local area networks; and (6) Maintaining knowledge of current trends in hardware and software technology relating to the practice of law, selecting the most feasible and economic methods to operate existing system. This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Attorney (Water Rights Unit) – Office of the Attorney General. Under general direction of the Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General. Duties include: (1) Representing the Nation on water rights matters, including the adjudication of water rights in administrative, state and federal courts for the purpose of securing and protecting the Nation’s water rights; (2) Working directly and indirectly on settlement negotiations concerning the Nation’s water rights, including the implementation of successful settlements; (3) Working closely with legal and technical staff within the NNDOJ Water Rights and Natural Resources Units, Department of Water Resources, Water Management Branch, other programs within the Nation, contract counsel, and with consultants retained to provide technical support or to serve as expert witnesses; (4) Providing legal work, legal research, and preparing legal memorandums, briefs, pleadings and other documents necessary for litigation and settlement purposes; and (5) Drafting, reviewing, analyzing and interpreting judicial decisions, legislation, contracts, leases, permits and other related documents. This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Senior Attorney, (Human Services/Government Unit). Under general direction of Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General, and Deputy Attorney General. Duties include: (1) Providing legal direction to Navajo Nation Division, 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; (2) Performing professional legal work in research, trial and other legal work; (3) Conferring with, providing advice to, and preparing advisory memorandums for various departments and branches of the Navajo Nation; (4) Preparing interpretations of new legislation and judicial decisions; (5) Reviewing contracts, leases, permits and related documents; (6) Interviewing witnesses, complainants, and other on a variety of legal matters; (7) Conducting legal research, preparing briefs, pleadings and other legal documents; and (8) Assisting in routine operations of Department of Justice. This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Prosecutor – Office of the ProsecutorKayenta, AZ. Duties include: (1) Representing the interest of the Navajo Nation in juvenile adjudications, dependencies, Children in Need of Supervision (CHNS); (2) Researching and studying litigation of juvenile proceedings and child neglect cases; (3) Preparing oral arguments, gathering facts and data, determining if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; (4) Attending juvenile related hearings in Navajo Nation Courts; (5) Conducting legal research, drafting complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; (6) Preparing a legal strategy; and (7) Making decisions in sensitive case and seeking assistance as needed in the juvenile matter. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Senior Prosecutor – Office of the Prosecutor. Shiprock, NM. Duties include: (1) Representing the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code; (2) Reviewing citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; (3) Interviewing witnesses, gathering facts and data, determining if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; (4) Conducting legal research, drafting complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; (5) Preparing a legal strategy; (6) Preparing and presenting criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; (7) Preparing legal memoranda, briefs, motions, and other required documents for court presentation; (8) Providing training to Prosecutors and Juvenile Presenting Officers and on request to law enforcement personnel; (9) Collaborating with law enforcement agencies; (10) Presenting major and complex litigation in District and Family Courts; This position is sedentary with a potential for high levels of stress. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until filled, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Chief Prosecutor. Window Rock, AZ. Duties include: (1) Performing administrative, managerial, and prosecutor work in directing the Office of the Prosecutor and component districts including White Collar Crime; (2) Administering short and long range planning, organizing, directing, strategic planning for annual external and supplemental budgets; (3) Coordinating and evaluating the overall effectiveness of the assigned program office and districts; (4) Adhering to the Plan of Operating and establishing annual goals and objectives, and making necessary amendments; (5) Preparing and presenting the annual budget during the annual budget process; (6) Conducting staff and program evaluations, ensuring the appropriate services are effectively and efficiently addressed; (7) Addressing personnel recruitment, interviews, hiring, and promotions; (8) Supervising all professional at-will employees and regular status employees; and (9) Promoting and maintaining public relations, representing the interest of the Navajo Nation and the Office of the Prosecutor(s) on a local, state, national, tribal and related levels, attending meetings, serving on committees, task forces, and other related groups, overseeing the management and in expenditures of the general and if applicable external funds ensuring compliance with financial requirements. Please see the position description for further information. This position is open until March 30, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Attorney. Window Rock, AZ. Under supervision of the Chief Prosecutor/Deputy Chief Prosecutor represents the interest of the Navajo Nation government. Provides and assists several district prosecutor offices in prosecution of criminal and civil cases representing the interests of the Navajo Nation government. Will attend arraignments, as needed; trials, adjudications, child dependency adjudications, motion hearings, sentencing/disposition hearings, pretrial conferences, preliminary hearings, and other related issues to court attendance; prepares all required legal documents; reviews investigative reports, legal pleadings from defense counsel, law enforcement reports and related documents; determines nature of the criminal offense; establishes case plan with law enforcement personnel from various governmental agencies on most serious criminal offenses such as vehicular homicide, sexual assault, aggravated batteries, child neglect or spousal abuse, etc.; assigns case plans; provides legal guidance and advice to law enforcement personnel in proceeding with investigation; prepares and obtains search warrants as necessary, conducts follow ups on cases and elements of cases, conducts legal research, review criminal complaints, interview witnesses, included but not limited to other legal matters. This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until March 10, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., 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 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 07, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Attorney. Window Rock, AZ.  Under supervision of the Chief Prosecutor/Deputy Chief Prosecutor represents the interest of the Navajo Nation government. Provides and assists several district prosecutor offices in prosecution of criminal and civil cases representing the interests of the Navajo Nation government. Will attend arraignments, as needed; trials, adjudications, child dependency adjudications, motion hearings, sentencing/disposition hearings, pretrial conferences, preliminary hearings, and other related issues to court attendance; prepares all required legal documents; reviews investigative reports, legal pleadings from defense counsel, law enforcement reports and related documents; determines nature of the criminal offense; establishes case plan with law enforcement personnel from various governmental agencies on most serious criminal offenses such as vehicular homicide, sexual assault, aggravated batteries, child neglect or spousal abuse, etc.; assigns case plans; provides legal guidance and advice to law enforcement personnel in proceeding with investigation; prepares and obtains search warrants as necessary, conducts follow ups on cases and elements of cases, conducts legal research, review criminal complaints, interview witnesses, included but not limited to other legal matters. This position is open until March 15, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Senior Prosecutor. Tohajiilee, NM.  Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code; reviews citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; interviews witnesses, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; gathers and compiles evidence; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case. Prepares and presents criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; performs extensive legal research. Attends staff meetings, training, law seminars and workshops; provides training to Prosecutors and Juvenile Presenting Officers and on request to law enforcement personnel; collaborates with law enforcement agencies; negotiates settlement with opposing parties. Present major and complex litigation in District and Family Courts; perform extensive legal research; and perform other work-related tasks/assignments as assigned. This position is sedentary with a potential for high levels of stress.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until March 15, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Prosecutor. Window Rock, AZ.  Represents the interest of the Navajo Nation in prosecuting individuals alleged to have violated provisions of the Navajo Nation Code; reviews citations, arrest sheets and other law enforcement documents and reports; interviews witnesses, gathers facts and data; determines if sufficient evidence exists to support the charges; conducts legal research; drafts complaints, motions and/or other legal proceedings; prepares a legal strategy; gathers and compiles evidence; identifies and subpoenas witnesses, records and other information required to present the case. Prepares and presents criminal and civil cases in the Navajo Nation and appellate courts; prepares legal memoranda, briefs, motions and other required documents for court presentation; performs extensive legal research.  This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Prosecutor.  This position is open until March 22, 2022 by 5:00 p.m., please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.dpm.navajo-nsn.gov/jobs.html.

Supreme Court Law ClerkSupreme Court of the Navajo Nation, Window Rock, AZ. This position analyzes supreme court cases; conducts legal research; drafts opinions and orders; and provides legal advice related to appellate cases, petitions, notices and other documents filed with the Navajo Nation Supreme Court. For more information, please see the position description or to apply, visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. This position closes March 31, 2022.
Judicial Hearing Officer, Chinle Judicial District, Chinle, Ariz. Under supervision of the Chief Justice, exercises authority to preside over hearings and dispositions involving the Domestic Abuse Protection Act and Álchíní Bi Beehaz’áannii Act occurring within the respective jurisdiction of the District Courts of the Navajo Nation; performs related work as assigned. The JHO will engage in legal research and writing in child welfare, domestic abuse, temporary minor or adult guardianship, child custody and other family matters. One Year Grant Funded with Benefits. For more information, please visit http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. This position is open until filled.

Judicial Hearing Officer, Window Rock Judicial District, Window Rock, Ariz. Under supervision of the Chief Justice, exercises authority to preside over hearings and dispositions involving the Domestic Abuse Protection Act and Álchíní Bi Beehaz’áannii Act occurring within the respective jurisdiction of the District Courts of the Navajo Nation; performs related work as assigned. The JHO will engage in legal research and writing in child welfare, domestic abuse, temporary minor or adult guardianship, child custody and other family matters. One Year Grant Funded with Benefits. For more information, please visit  http://www.courts.navajo-nsn.gov/vacancies.htm. This position is open until filled.

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

Staff AttorneyAneth Judicial District, Aneth, UTThis 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 AttorneyChinle Judicial District, Chinle, AZThis 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 AttorneyKayenta Judicial District, Kayenta, AZThis 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 JudgeJudicial 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.  

Request for Proposal – Prosecutor. Under the direction of the Navajo Nation Attorney General or her designee, the Attorney, as an Independent Contractor, shall provide legal services to the: Represent 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 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. Due Date for Email Receipt of Proposals Friday, March 18, 2022 at 4:00 PM
MDT
.

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

2022 Summer Diversity Fellowship Program. Washington, DC. Fellowships will be given to five law students who are interning with criminal defense practitioners. Students may utilize an existing summer placement or may select an employer from our nationwide list of criminal defense lawyers and agencies. Applicants must currently be a 1L or 2L (or 3L evening) student from a historically underrepresented background, in good academic standing, and enrolled at an ABA-accredited law school. Applicants must have an interest in a career in criminal defense. Selected Fellows will be expected to intern, full-time, at a public defender office or with a criminal defense attorney in private practice. Selected Fellows will receive $500 per week for up to 8 weeks of summer employment. Interested students must complete a Diversity Fellowship application, provide a resume, and complete a brief writing exercise. The application and additional information about the program can be found on our website at: https://www.nacdl.org/Landing/Diversity-Task-Force-FellowshipsApplications are due Friday, March 18, 2022. If you have any questions about the program, please feel free to contact me (bhoffman@nacdl.org) or our Diversity Fellowship Team (summerfellowship@nacdl.org)

The American Indian Law Center, Inc. (AILC)

Assistant PLSI Director. Albuquerque, NM. Duties include: (1) Providing support to the PLSI Director in all aspects of PLSI and its programs; (2) Assisting with developing and implementing programs to support Native pre-law and law students; (3) Building relationships with alumni, pre-law advisors, law schools, tribal colleges and universities, tribal education departments, and schools with significant Native American populations; (4) Assisting in developing and managing budgets; (5) Assisting with staffing of faculty, teaching assistants, research assistants, and other positions; (6) Coordinating with pre-law programs, Native American bar associations, judicial organizations, professional organizations, and educational programs on events, projects, and services for Native American pre-law and law students; (7) Planning events, scheduling speakers and panels, coordinating travel for staff, students, and professionals; (8) Developing print and electronic materials for announcements, programs, CLEs, and program promotion; (9) Assisting in grant compliance including collecting and assessing data, drafting reports, and
coordinating with grantors; (10) Promoting PLSI and the AILC to the community through public relations, social media, and advocacy; and (11) Representing PLSI and AILC at events, career fairs, and conferences. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume by March 18, 2022 to Rodina Cave Parnall, PLSI Director, caveparnall@law.unm.edu.

Yurok Tribe

Deputy General Counsel. Klamath, CA. Under the general supervision of the General Counsel, the Deputy General Counsel will assist the Tribal Council and Tribal Departments in the legal matters related to the business of the Tribe. The Deputy General Counsel completes a variety of professional assignments on behalf of the Council and departments as assigned by the General Counsel. Incumbent works closely with paralegals and department staff. Interested candidates should apply here by March 17, 2022.

ICWA Paralegal I/II. Eureka, CA. Under the direction and supervision of the General Counsel, and/or designated Deputy/Associate General Counsel, the ICWA Paralegal will provide support and resolve routine legal issues on Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) cases handled by the Yurok Tribe’s Office of the Tribal Attorney (OTA). Interested candidates should apply here.

Associate General Counsel. Klamath, CA. Under the general supervision of the General Counsel, the Associate General Counsel will assist the Tribal Council and Tribal Departments in the legal matters related to the business of the Tribe. The Associate General Counsel completes a variety of professional assignments on behalf of the Council and departments as assigned by the General Counsel. Incumbent works closely with paralegals and department staff. Interested candidates should apply here.

Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi

Staff Attorney. Fulton, MI. Duties include: (1) Attending meetings of the Tribal Council, Committees, regulatory board/commissions and Membership meetings; (2) Researching and drafting resolutions, Tribal laws, regulations, and policies for Tribal Council approval; (3) Providing timely legal advice/counsel to, and draft legal opinions for, the Tribal Council and other subdivisions and instrumentalities of the Tribal government on a broad range of legal issues; (4) Preparing legal memoranda and conducting legal research as directed; (5) Developing and implementing policies and procedures; (5) Working with Department Leaders to create policies/procedures and compose resolutions for Tribal Council; (6) Representing NHBP in Tribal court, and before quasi-judicial or administrative agencies of government; (7) Interpreting laws, rulings, and regulations for the Tribal Council and other Tribal government entities; (8) Under the supervision and direction of the Chief Legal Counsel, advises NHBP concerning transactions of business involving internal affairs, Tribal Council, officers of NHBP and Tribal relations with general public; (9) Managing delivery of Legal Services as defined by General Counsel to ensure services are provided in a timely manner by appropriate personnel consistent with NHBP business needs; and (10) Maintaining current, accurate and complete records as required by federal, state and all regulatory agencies. Please see the position description for further information.

The United States Probation Office, Eastern District of Oklahoma

United States Probation Officer. Muskogee, OK. Duties include: (1) Enforcing court-ordered supervision components and implementing supervision strategies; (2) Conducting investigations, preparing reports, and making recommendations to the court; (3) Scheduling and conducting drug use detection tests and DNA collection of offenders/defendants, following established procedures and protocols; (4) Investigating and analyzing financial documents and activities and taking appropriate action; (5) Reviewing and resolving disputed issues involving offenders/defendants and presenting unresolved issues to the court for resolution; (6) Providing offenders/defendants with information on local resources and programs regarding employment, GED certification assistance, ongoing education, and vocational training; and (7) Communicating with other organizations and personnel (such as U.S. Parole Commission, Bureau of Prisons, law enforcement, treatment agencies, and attorneys) concerning offenders’ / defendants’ behavior and conditions of supervision. Please see the position description for further information.

Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians

Governmental Affairs Coordinator. Palm Springs, CA. Duties include: (1) Acting as a liaison for the ACBCI Government and Legislative Affairs Department; (2) Serving as the primary contact between local, state, and federal jurisdictions and ACBCI; (3) Coordinating administration of all political contributions; and (4) Performing necessary administrative/clerical support for the Department as needed. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates can apply here or to Brian Estenson, bestenson@aguacaliente.net.

Tanana Chiefs Conference

Associate CounselFairbanks, AK. Duties include: (1) Assisting the General Counsel in all matters assigned to the legal division; (2) Participating in the development of TCC policies, procedures and programs and providing continuing counsel and guidance on legal matters and on legal implications of all matters; (3) Representing the company in legal proceedings; (4) Assisting with the coordination and management of outside counsel and litigation; (5) Interacting with members of TCC, the legal profession, officials of state and federal government, and others as assigned by the President or General Counsel; (6) Coordinating with management, auditors, accountants and other staff; (7) Meeting with clients including staff, member tribes and partners; (8) Assisting programs in negotiation and drafting of commercial, construction, contractual and other agreements; (9) Keeping informed of industry-specific regulations and ensuring that appropriate risk management strategies are in place; and (10) Providing legal advice and services on issues concerning the rights, obligations, and privileges of the organization and member tribes. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates should apply here. The position is open until filled.

Grand Canyon Trust

Foundation Manager. Remote in AZ, UT, NM, or CO. Duties include: (1) Crafting proposals, reports, and project budgets in alignment with organizational budgets and by working with staff, finance director, and senior director of development; (2) Writing, editing, and submitting the letters of inquiry, grant proposals, and reports to foundations by working collaboratively with appropriate staff members; (3) Managing the grants calendar and meeting all grant proposals and reporting deadlines; (4) Stewarding all foundation relationships through regular communication and meaningful, personalized opportunities for engagement; (5) Researching, developing, and stewarding a new slate of foundation supporters for the Trust’s work; and (6) Balancing a heavy volume of writing and editing assignments on a variety of topics with tight deadlines. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates should send a resume and cover letter to Careers@grandcanyontrust.org by March 18, 2022, 5pm MT.

Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes

Criminal Defense Attorney – Tribal Defenders Office. Pablo, MT. Duties include: (1) Representing adults charged in Tribal Court with misdemeanor and felony offenses; (2) Providing advocacy at all stages of proceedings, from initial appearance to trial, sentencing, and appeal; and (3) Representing juveniles charged in Tribal Youth Court with misdemeanor and felony offenses. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates should view application materials at csktribes.org. For more information contact ann.miller@cskt.org.

Family Defense Attorney – Tribal Defenders Office. Pablo, MT. Duties include: (1) Representing parents or guardians of children who are the subject of child protection investigations and matters filed in the Tribal Court; (2) Assisting the Managing Attorney in the planning and implementation of a pilot project in the Tribal Court that will divert child protection cases to a Families in Need of Services model; and (3) Representing clients in criminal court who have child protection matters pending as a collateral consequence to their criminal charge. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates should view application materials at csktribes.org. For more information contact ann.miller@cskt.org.

Environmental Law Institute

Administrative & Membership Coordinator. Washington, DC. Duties include: (1) Assisting the Vice President for Development and Membership in meeting membership goals; (2) Processing invoices and payments for individual and institutional (firms/corporations/NGOs) memberships, events, boot camps, other special events; (3) Maintaining a large customer relations management database with membership information; (4) Collaborating with finance staff to ensure accurate tracking and reconciliation of membership and related revenue in budgeting; (5) Working with an outside contractor to submit applications and materials for compliance with state charitable registrations; (6) Serving as ELI’s representative to EarthShare giving programs and submitting applications and materials to maintain and increase EarthShare contributions; and (7) Assisting the Finance department and potentially other departments with additional data entry and processing needs. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates should apply here by March 18, 2022.

Forest County Potawatomi Community

Tribal Prosecutor. Crandon, WI. Duties include: (1) Providing legal guidance and advice involving various areas of law; (2) Reviewing, researching, interpreting, and preparing both written and oral opinions on a wide variety of legal issues; (3) Drafting, reviewing, and approving motions, orders and other filings for Forest County Potawatomi Tribal, State and Federal Courts; (4) Researching legal issues and recommending revisions as necessary; and (5) Maintaining professional and technical knowledge by conducting research, attending seminars, educational workshops, classes and conferences. Interested candidates can contact Terrance Brown, Human Resources Recruiter, E: terrance.brown@fcp-nsn.gov.

Arizona Indian Gaming Association

Executive Director. Phoenix, AZ. Duties include: (1) Administering the daily functions of the organization; (2) Managing membership and staff of AIGA; (3) Coordinating and leading membership meetings; (4) Providing oversight for policy and regulatory initiatives; and (5) Organizing its annual conference. Please see the position description for further information. Interested candidates should email their resume to  bdownes@bdrlaw.com with “AIGA Executive Director” noted in the subject line of the email by March 22, 2022.