GWE Program Manager

COWLITZ INDIAN TRIBE • Longview, WA

9d • $82,264 - $98,592 • Onsite

About The Position

Supports the Cowlitz Indian Tribe’s (CIT) strategic vision by managing the operations of the Tribe’s General Welfare Exclusion (GWE) Program. Implements and maintains policies, processes, and payment schedules that provide tax-exempt benefits to Tribal Members in alignment with federal GWE guidelines. Administers program operations, including overseeing and coordinating disbursements, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Engages with internal departments, Tribal leadership, and Tribal Council to support program delivery, and maintains clear communication with Tribal Members regarding program benefits. Maintains professionalism in all interactions, and honors and represents the mission, vision, and values of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. This list of duties and responsibilities is illustrative only of the tasks performed by this position and is not all-inclusive.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Five (5) years of professional experience in accounting, financial program management, or administration of similar large-scale payment or benefits programs.
• Experience working with accounting or financial software such as MIP and coordinating with Accounts Payable functions.
• Experience in program administration, including compliance monitoring, auditing, or reporting.
• Ability to be backgrounded by the FBI for the administration of the Enhanced Tribal Card program through the Department of Homeland Security.
• Demonstrated experience working with or in Tribal governments or other governmental organizations.
• A valid driver’s license is required when driving vehicles for work-related purposes.
• Must be able to successfully pass a background screening/investigation.

Nice To Haves

• A combination of relevant education and related work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Responsibilities

• Supports and maintains the implementation and ongoing management of the Tribe’s General Welfare Exclusion (GWE) Program.
• Supports and maintains program policies, procedures, and payment schedules that ensure compliance with federal GWE requirements and Tribal Council directives.
• Develops, maintains, and coordinates the Tribe's GWE Member Portal, including benefit applications, member communications, document collection, eligibility workflows, and self-service access to program information.
• Upon Tribal Council direction, oversees payment amounts, eligibility criteria, and benefit categories.
• Digitizes and archives historical GWE documentation
• Supports the planning and execution of General Council meetings and other Tribal events by coordinating enrollment-related services.
• Administers program operations, including processing applications, verifying eligibility, scheduling payments, and ensuring timely disbursement of benefits.
• Works with third-party vendors and service providers to automate payment processes and improve program efficiency.
• Works closely with the Accounting Department to coordinate payment processing through MIP software, including Accounts Payable functions.
• Collaborates with the Enrollment Department to ensure accurate member data, clear communication with Tribal Members, and updates to RiteTrack software.
• Conducts regular internal audits of GWE transactions, documentation, and processes to ensure compliance, accuracy, and accountability, and works closely with Accounting to ensure proper reconciliation of all financial records.
• Monitors federal guidance and regulatory changes related to GWE programs, ensuring the Tribe’s program remains compliant.
• Develops programs and training around money and financial management.
• Prepares and delivers regular updates and presentations to Tribal Council, committees, and membership regarding program activities, outcomes, and compliance.
• Develops and maintains accurate and current program-related data, records, and documentation to support transparency, accountability, and audit readiness.
• Designs and implements communication materials and engagement strategies to ensure Tribal Members are well informed of program benefits and processes.
• Serves as a primary point of contact for Tribal Members regarding GWE program questions, application assistance, and problem resolution.
• Represents the Tribe in discussions with federal agencies, other tribes, and partner organizations regarding GWE programs and related initiatives.
• Drafts GWE-related policies, procedures, and recommendations for Tribal Council consideration.
• Enhances professional growth and development through participation in seminars, educational workshops, classes, and conferences related to program management and compliance.
• Assists enrollment with member interviews related to the Enhanced Tribal Card program.
• Maintains strict confidentiality in handling sensitive Tribal Member and program information.
• Contributes to team effort and accomplishes related results as required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Tribal preference in accordance with Cowlitz Indian Tribe Code and CIT Employee Policies and Procedures Handbook shall apply to all positions.
• All positions are required to adhere to CIT’s established safety policies regarding vaccine requirements and personal protective equipment (PPE).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager