California Indian Legal Services 

Founded in 1967, California Indian Legal Services (CILS) is the oldest public interest Indian rights law firm in the country, promoting the fundamental rights of California Tribes and Indians through litigation, legislative and administrative advocacy, community development, and other strategies for systemic change. CILS provides a full range of legal representation to California Indian Tribes and Indian organizations, advocates for the rights of California Indians at the local, state, and national levels, and provides direct services and community education to low-income Native American individuals on issues related to Federal Indian Law and Tribal law. Currently, CILS offers services statewide and maintains four offices throughout California – Eastern (Bishop), Southern (Escondido), Northern (McKinleyville), and Central (Sacramento). This position is in the Southern Office, located in Escondido, CA. For additional information about CILS, go to our website at www.calindian.org.


Supervised by the Directing Attorney, the Staff Attorney will work collaboratively with other staff to provide exceptional legal services in all areas of Federal Indian law. Our fast-paced office provides legal services on issues of jurisdiction, tax, estate planning, trust assets, environmental law, natural resource development, tribal governance, employment, and the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA). The Staff Attorney will assume a varied caseload 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; and making community presentations. The Staff Attorney will be expected to appear on behalf of tribal clients in state dependency actions where the ICWA is applicable. Staff Attorney client development responsibilities include developing and maintaining effective relationships with tribes and Indian organizations in the service territory, including all funding sources, and ensuring that the office pursues and secures meaningful opportunities to work with tribes, Indian organizations, and Indian individuals throughout the service territory. Client development includes all CILS funding sources (grants, contracts, donations, etc.).

Staff Attorneys also collaborate with Directing Attorneys and the Director of Legal Programs for legal work management that includes Staff Attorney mentoring and supervision, assistance and administration of local legal work management systems, and grant and special project development and implementation, as directed by the Directing Attorney and/or the Director of Legal Programs.

J.D. and California bar membership in good standing.

Demonstrated knowledge of Federal Indian law with at least 1-3 years of experience practicing law.

Excellent communication, writing, and organizational skills.

Strong work ethic and able to work nights and weekends when many Tribal councils meet.

Ability to travel overnight and a valid driver’s license.

Solid understanding of Native Americans and Tribes in California.

A commitment to providing high-quality legal services for Native Americans.

Ability to work independently, as part of a team, and to take initiative.

Legal Services and/or Nonprofit legal work experience.

Experience working with Native Americans, Tribes, or tribal communities.

Experience in dependency/child welfare law.

Deep connection and commitment to the CILS mission and tribal communities

Staff Attorney 

INTERESTED APPLICANTS SHOULD SEND A LETTER OF INTEREST AND STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS (OR RESUME) TO:
Amy Wesaw - Chief Legal Officer
1485 Mno-Bmadzewen Way, Fulton, MI 49052
amy.wesaw@nhbp-nsn.gov


LETTERS OF INTEREST MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN NOVEMBER 1, 2026

Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi 

TRIBAL COUNCIL SEEKS LETTERS OF INTEREST FROM PERSONS TO SERVE AS ASSOCIATE JUSTICE ON THE NHBP TRIBAL SUPREME COURT. The Tribal Council is soliciting letters of interest from qualified individuals interested in being appointed to serve as Associate Justice on the NHBP Supreme
Court. The individual appointed to this position would be appointed to a six-year term of office expiring on December 31, 2032. Letters of interest must be submitted no later than November 1, 2026, to be considered. NHBP Judicial Branch: The NHBP Judiciary is a Constitutional Branch of Government established under Article XI of the Band’s Constitution. The NHBP Court is a court of general jurisdiction, and the Supreme Court hears appeals from the Judiciary’s Trial Court. In addition to hearing appeals, members of the
Supreme Court also work with the Trial Court’s Chief Judge and other court staff in the development of Court Rules and Administrative Orders.


Qualifications for Appointment: In accordance with the NHBP Constitution, persons interested in being appointed to the Tribal Judiciary must agree to undergo an extensive background investigation and may
be asked to appear before the Tribal Council to answer questions about their qualifications for the position.


The qualifications of prospective appointees are determined by the Tribal Council in accordance with the qualifications for office contained in Article XI of the NHBP Constitution which include the following:
• Has attained the age of thirty (30) years;
• Is a licensed attorney in good standing;
• Not be an employee of NHBP or presently serving, or a candidate for, a seat on the elected Tribal
Council; and
• Has never been convicted of a violent crime, felony or a crime of fraud.
Members of the bench are compensated for services at a competitive hourly rate. In accordance with the NHBP Constitution, “the amount of [compensation] shall not be reduced during such person’s term of
office.” Justices are also reimbursed for reasonable expenses including travel to and from Michigan.

Supreme Court Posting 

Providing legal services to the Tribal government, Executive Directors, CEOs, Board of Directors, and various other departments, enterprises, commissions, and committees.

Appear in Tribal and State Courts on behalf of the Tulalip Tribes in child welfare proceedings.

Maintain the ability to read, analyze, and interpret the most complex documents.

To respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries or issues in a confidential manner.

Write memos, correspondence and articles using original or innovative techniques or style.

Make effective and persuasive speeches and presentations on controversial or complex topics to Tribal Leadership, management, public groups, and/or other governmental agencies.

May have interaction or direct contact with youth and families through work related job duties.

Operates personal vehicle to drive between various work sites.

Regular and satisfactory attendance and punctuality.

Tulalip Tribes

The Child Welfare Reservation Attorney shall collaborate with other Attorneys in the department to represent and provide legal counsel to the Tulalip Tribes government in all judicial and administrative forums and in the Tribes’ governmental and business relations with outside entities. They should have experience with the legal functioning of a tribal government and be prepared to provide day-to-day legal counsel on all aspects of governmental action.

Juris Doctorate from an ABA accredited law school.

One (1) year of experience practicing law or equivalent experience advocating for or providing counsel to Indian tribes or tribal communities.

Three (3) years of experience representing or working with Indian tribes.

REQUIRED LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS/PREREQUISITES

Must be a Washington State Bar Association Member.

Tulalip Tribal Court Bar. *Will allow six (6) months to obtain.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment background check.

MS Office Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Internet etc.

Maintain confidentiality and communicate with tact and discretion in accordance with Washington State Bar standards.

Basic filing system principles and data management.

Basic understanding of the Native American Community.

Applicable Tribal, Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, codes, and/or statutes.

Prepare and review legal documents and correspondence with minimal supervision.

Handle upset, angry, frustrated, and emotional clients, customers, or community members.

Demonstrate excellent communication skills both verbal and written.

Evaluate department needs and carry them out with little or no supervision.

Exhibit professional and ethical behavior at all times.

Handle stressful and fast paced working environment.

Organize, plan, coordinate, and carry-out assigned tasks with accuracy and attention to detail.

Dexterity for the operation of a computer, office machines, and routine paperwork.

Stamina to sit, stand, and/or walk for prolonged periods.

Mobility to bend, stoop, and/or climb stairs on an everyday basis.

Ability to sit extended periods, up to eight hours per day.

Tolerance for exposure to computer screens, for up to eight hours per day.

Strength to lift objects weighing up to 40lbs. occasionally

Reservation Attorney-Child Welfare 

Build and maintain productive bipartisan relationships with Members of Congress, congressional staff, and relevant committees.

Conduct routine outreach to congressional offices to strengthen awareness of Tribal Colleges and Universities and AIHEC priorities.

Serve as AIHEC's day-to-day point of contact for congressional offices.

Coordinate congressional meetings, briefings, office visits, and Capitol Hill events.

Maintain congressional contact databases and relationship tracking.

Monitor legislation, appropriations activity, committee hearings, and floor action affecting Tribal Colleges and Universities.

Prepare legislative summaries, briefing memoranda, talking points, and background materials.

Track appropriations requests, legislative priorities, and congressional action items.

Assist the Vice President in reviewing legislative language and congressional impacts on Tribal Colleges and Universities.

Assist Tribal College presidents in preparing for congressional meetings.

Coordinate congressional participation in AIHEC events.

Manage congressional scheduling and logistics for the annual Legislative Summit.

Prepare leave-behind materials and congressional briefing books.

American Indian Higher Education Consortium 

The American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC) is the collective spirit and unifying voice of our nation's Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs). AIHEC advances American Indian and Alaska Native higher education through advocacy, research, member services, and programmatic initiatives designed to strengthen Native languages, cultures, communities and Tribal Nations. Through its unique position, AIHEC serves as a collaborative partner to member institutions and emerging TCUs. AIHEC also publishes the 

(TCJ), a premier national publication highlighting innovations, achievements, and issues impacting American Indian higher education.

The Congressional Relations Associate supports AIHEC's Congressional Affairs strategy by cultivating and maintaining productive relationships with Members of Congress, congressional staff, committees, and key legislative partners. Working under the direction of the Vice President of Congressional and Federal Relations, the Associate coordinates congressional outreach, monitors legislative activity, prepares briefing materials, supports appropriations efforts, and helps ensure AIHEC maintains a visible and trusted presence on Capitol Hill.

Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Government, Public Administration, Native American Studies, Higher Education, Communications, or a related field.

Three to five years of professional experience in congressional affairs, government relations, legislative affairs, public policy, or a related field.

Working knowledge of the U.S. Congress and the federal appropriations process.

Experience coordinating congressional meetings or working with congressional offices.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Experience working with Tribal Nations, Tribal Colleges and Universities, or Native-serving organizations.

Knowledge of post-secondary education policy.

 Understands political dynamics, stakeholder interests, and the legislative environment, and adjusts approaches accordingly.

Builds and maintains productive, trust-based relationships with congressional staff, member institutions, coalition partners, and other stakeholders.

Communicates ideas effectively, builds consensus, and advances organizational priorities through collaboration and credibility.

Demonstrates ownership of assignments, anticipates needs, follows through on commitments, and delivers results with minimal supervision.

Demonstrates respect for diverse perspectives and experiences and works effectively with Tribal Colleges and Universities and their stakeholders.

Ability to communicate information and ideas, detect, determine, perceive, and observe details, particularly on a screen or on paper.

Ability to spend more than half of the time viewing computer monitors.

This position may require remaining in a stationary position 50% or more.

Ability to communicate effectively in person, over the phone, and in writing.

Ability to travel independently and attend off-site meetings and events as required by business needs.

Travel up to 25% for meetings and conferences

Congressional Relations Associate 

To apply, email a resume and cover letter to cyenafryberg@tulaliptribes-nsn.gov

1. Providing legal services to the Tulalip Gaming Organization, Tulalip Tribal Federal Corporation, Quil Ceda Village, and their respective Chief Officers, Board leadership, and various other departments, enterprises, and subsidiaries. 2. Appearing in tribal, state and federal tribunals on behalf of the Tulalip Tribes. 3. Must be able to practice law in the areas of gaming, economic development, tax, property, etc. 4. Maintain the ability to read, analyze, and interpret complex documents. 5. Provide sophisticated legal guidance in a manner that promotes the interests of the Tulalip Tribes and its entities. 6. Respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries or issues in a confidential manner. 7. Write memos, correspondence and articles using original or innovative techniques or style. 8. Make effective and persuasive speeches and presentations on controversial or complex topics to Tribal Leadership, management, public groups, and/or other governmental agencies. 9. Operates personal vehicle to drive between various work sites. 10. Regular and satisfactory attendance and punctuality. 11. Other related job duties as assigned.

The Reservation Attorney works with the Office of Reservation Attorney to provide legal counsel and representation to the Tulalip Tribes government, with a primary focus on the Tulalip Gaming Organization, Tulalip Tribal Federal Corporation, and Quil Ceda Village. This position advises on business, governance, regulatory, and operational matters; represents tribal entities in judicial and administrative proceedings; and supports business relationships and transactions with external partners. The Reservation Attorney must have experience with the unique complexities of tribal enterprises and provide practical, day-to-day legal counsel on all aspects of tribal business operations while protecting Tribal interests and sovereignty.

MINIMUM REQUIRED EDUCATION Juris Doctorate from an American Bar Association accredited law school. MINIMUM RELATED EXPERIENCE Five (5) years of experience practicing law. Three (3) years of experience representing or working with Indian tribes.

 REQUIRED LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS/PREREQUISITES WA State Driver License. (Personal Auto Insurance) Licensed in good standing with the Washington State Bar Association and Tulalip Tribal Court Bar. *Will allow six (6) months to obtain. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment background check. KNOWLEDGE OF MS Office Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, Internet etc. Basic filing system principles and data management. Applicable Tribal, Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, codes, and/or statutes. Principles and practices of tribal government and Tulalip policies & ordinances. Office practices and procedures. ABLE TO Prepare and review legal documents and correspondence with minimal supervision. Handle upset, angry, frustrated, and emotional clients, customers, or community members. Attend training as required. Demonstrate excellent communication skills both verbal and written. Have excellent proofreading, grammar, punctuation, spelling, written, and verbal skills. Evaluate department needs and carry them out with little or no supervision. Exhibit professional and ethical behavior at all times. Handle stressful and fast paced working environment. Work effectively in a culturally diverse environment. Learn, interpret and apply codes, policies, procedures, and other written materials. Maintain confidentiality and communicate with tact and discretion. Continually learn and utilize a variety of information systems and software. Provide excellent customer service and problem solve effectively. Organize, plan, coordinate, and carry-out assigned tasks with accuracy and attention to detail. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Dexterity for the operation of a computer, office machines and routine paperwork. Stamina to sit, stand, and/or walk for prolonged periods. Mobility to bend, stoop, and/or climb stairs on an everyday basis. Ability to sit extended periods, up to eight hours per day. Tolerance for exposure to computer screens, for up to eight hours per day. Strength to lift objects weighing up to 25lbs. occasionally

Reservation Attorney-Business 

Support daily administrative operations, including managing office supplies, equipment, and facilities.


Coordinate and schedule meetings, appointments, and events, including meeting agendas.


Maintain organized and up-to-date records and files, both physical and digital.


Handle incoming and outgoing correspondence, including emails, phone calls, and mail.


Maintain Sharepoint files and organization.


Assist with budgeting, financial reporting, and expense tracking.


Process invoices, reimbursements, and payments, bank reconciliations


Coordinate with finance partners to ensure accurate financial records.


Support fundraising efforts by managing donor databases and processing donations.


Assist with Sub-grantee invoicing and reporting as needed.


Assist with recruitment, onboarding, and training of new staff and volunteers.


Support HR Partners in maintaining personnel records and responding to inquiries


Coordinate staff development and training programs.


Provide administrative support to program team members.


Assist with the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs and initiatives.


Assist logistics for events, workshops, and outreach activities.


Coordinate communication with partners, stakeholders, and the community


Co-develop meeting agendas, minutes, and reports with support of the Network Director and Board of Board of Directors


Ensure compliance with nonprofit regulations and reporting requirements.


Assist with grant applications and reporting.

Indigenous Stewardship Network

The Indigenous Stewardship Network (ISN) is an emerging non-profit organization created in 2022 under a Tribal Charter with the Yurok Tribe. This Native-controlled and Native-led organization was established to bring people together who are committed to advancing community health and wellbeing, traditions and cultural values through Indigenous-led stewardship. While gatherings on these important issues have occurred informally, there is a need for an organized and dedicated support system to coordinate efforts more intentionally for Indigenous land stewardship practitioners in what is colonially known as California. ISN’s core programmatic focus is to establish and leverage a network to develop strategies, models, investments as well as other opportunities that strengthens Indigenous stewardship. ISN is currently in its initial growth phase and seeking an Administrative Assistant to assist the Executive Director and Board of Directors to help lead the organization through this phase.


Reporting to the Network Director, the Administrative Assistant will oversee daily administrative operations, and support human resources functions. This role will be responsible for maintaining records, handling correspondence, assisting with budgeting and expense tracking, processing financial transactions, and supporting fundraising efforts. The role also involves assisting Human Resources with basic duties and supporting governance and compliance requirements. The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency in managing office operations, basic financial processes, exposure to HR functions, program logistics, and communication strategies, with a strong ability to work with tribal, state, and federal governments and an appreciation for Indigenous stewardship practices. A minimum of 2-3 years of experience in an administrative or operations role in a non-profit organization , especially with Tribes or Native organizations, is required.

$24 - $30.00 per hour depending on experience

The following core competencies have been identified as the primary strengths and capabilities that will contribute significantly to the Administrative Assistant achieving objectives and fulfilling their roles and responsibilities effectively.


Administrative: Is proficient in managing office supplies, equipment, and facilities. Possesses deep knowledge and experience coordinating and scheduling meetings, appointments, and events. Is an expert in maintaining organized and up-to-date records, both physical and digital. Handles incoming and outgoing correspondence efficiently, including emails, phone calls, and mail.


Financial: Has a functional understanding of financial and accounting procedures including budgeting, financial reporting, and expense tracking. Is experienced in processing invoices, reimbursements, and payments. Has experience collaborating with finance partners to ensure accurate financial records. Is proficient in managing donor databases and processing donations to support fundraising efforts.


Human Resources : Has supported with hiring, onboarding, and training of new staff and volunteers. Has a functional understanding of how to compliantly manage personnel records with confidentiality.


Program: Has experience supporting the administrative functions of a nonprofit program team. Is experienced in assisting with the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs and initiatives. Is experienced in managing logistics for events, workshops, and outreach activities with efficiency. Has functional knowledge in effective methods for tracking program data reporting.


Communication and Public Relations: Excellent written and oral communication skills, with proven ability to convey information clearly Proven track record of effectively stewarding and communicating with partners, stakeholders, and the community.


Governance and Compliance: Has functional knowledge of nonprofit board governance management including preparing meeting agendas, minutes, and reports with accuracy. Has functional knowledge of compliance with nonprofit regulations and reporting requirements.


Adaptability and Resilience: Multitasks efficiently and adapts to shifting priorities and unforeseen challenges while maintaining a high level of productivity. Demonstrates resilience and flexibility in a dynamic work environment, consistently seeks solutions to complex problems. Leads by example in embracing change and driving innovation within the organization.


Passion and Commitment: Embodies a deep passion for advancing Indigenous-led stewardship, preserving Indigenous lifeways, and creating community-based opportunities.


Intergovernmental Relations: Demonstrates effectiveness in working with tribal, state, and federal governments. Possesses a working knowledge of and appreciation for Indigenous stewardship practices. Experience and proven ability to encourage and nurture collaboration among diverse partners.


A minimum of 2-3 years’ combined experience in nonprofit operations, or comparable business administration, specifically working with tribes, Native organizations, Native peoples.


2 or 4 year degree or equivalent additional work experience.


Lived or work experience and a strong passion for helping Native people and tribes.


Strong organizational skills and Microsoft Suite proficiency.


Experience processing invoices and reconciling bank statements.


Valid driver’s license and willingness for occasional travel throughout California.


Preferred experience with Quickbooks or Sharepoint administration.

Administrative Assistant 

· Process and track reasonable accommodation requests for students, meet with students one-on-one to identify barriers to access and necessary accommodations, and work closely with faculty and staff to ensure student accommodation plans are implemented.

· Oversee the prompt, effective and equitable intake, investigation, processing, final reports and timely resolution of all cases related to discrimination, harassment and retaliation based on disability.

· Facilitate trainings and technical assistance workshops for achieving and maintaining compliance with the ADA and disability-related laws.

· Assist faculty and staff with providing modifications and accommodations to ensure courses, programs, materials, online systems, and spaces are accessible and access issues are integrated into daily operations, policies, and education.

· Review and assist in developing relevant policies, practices, and procedures to create or maintain compliance with disability-related laws and reduce barriers to access.

· Serve as a member of IAIA’s Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT).

· Manage IAIA’s Student Emergency Fund program by intaking funding requests, communicating application decisions, arranging payments to third parties, and tracking funding requests, payments, and grant-specific outcomes.

Institute of American Indian Arts 

The IAIA Director of Community Access is responsible for ensuring IAIA’s compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and disability-related state and federal laws. The Director of Community Access coordinates student accommodations, oversees grievances related to discrimination based on disability, develops and provides training to the campus community, and ensures campus spaces and programs are accessible. This position also manages IAIA’s Student Emergency Fund program.

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline plus at least 3 years of experience in ADA compliance and 1-3 years working in an educational setting, 1 year working in ADA compliance with demonstrated understanding of disability-related laws and 3 years experience working in an educational environment. Experience working with diverse communities, such as Native American organizations, and an understanding and appreciation of Native American arts, culture, and higher education is important.

 An advanced degree and/ or related professional certification (e.g. social and behavioral science and social work).

· Knowledge of current state and federal laws and regulations, institution policies, practices and procedures, best practices and trends in the field of higher education concerning discrimination, harassment and retaliation policies that violate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other federal and state disability-related laws, regulations and requirements

· Ability to review confidential medical documentation and work collaboratively with students to identify barriers to access and necessary accommodations

· Ability to design and deliver training programs to all campus constituents, demonstrate attendance accountability and assess training effectiveness

· Skilled in effective investigation techniques and ability to analyze information and data to reach sound conclusions

· Ability to facilitate small groups, build relationships, and balance multiple, varying and often conflicting interests

· Ability to compile, analyze and report statistical data

· Ability to appropriately handle confidential issues, content, and language, and act as an impartial party in managing complaints, investigations, reports, data, etc.

· Excellent oral, written and interpersonal skills including emotional intelligence

· Ability to work effectively as a team member

· Demonstrated understanding of and sensitivity to working with individuals and groups representing a wide range of diverse academic, cultural, disability, ethnic, geographic and socioeconomic backgrounds

· Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs

· Work is performed in an office environment, with attendance required for campus and off campus meetings.

· Out-of-town travel for meetings and conferences is expected using a personal or company vehicle.

· This job description does not list all the duties of the job.

· Though not initially expected to be a supervisory position, this position may be responsible for the supervision of assigned staff in the future.

· Performance evaluation will include assessment of program, training and other metric outcomes as required.

· Management has the right to revise this job description at any time.

· The job description is not a contract for employment.

Director of Community Access 

To view a full listing of jobs with NCAI, visit:

 

NCAI welcomes American Indian, Native Hawaiian and Alaska Native businesses, governments and organizations to submit open positions to NCAI.


Employers are welcome to submit postings if they fit one of the following criteria:

The position requires a significant amount of interaction with tribal communities

The position requires specific skills (e.g. fluency in a native language, knowledge of federal Indian law)

The business or organization is a member of NCAI in good standing.

All postings are subject to approval and will remain on the site for no more than 45 days.

 and include a contact email, organization, duties and responsibilities, skills and qualifications and any other relevant information for the job.


 We do not accept individual resumes on behalf of or for non-NCAI job opportunities.

Working in Indian Country

Staff Attorney

California Indian Legal Services

Supreme Court Posting

Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi

Reservation Attorney-Child Welfare

Tulalip Tribes

Congressional Relations Associate

American Indian Higher Education Consortium

Reservation Attorney-Business

Tulalip Tribes

Administrative Assistant

Indigenous Stewardship Network

Director of Community Access

Institute of American Indian Arts

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