Mgr Tribal History & Archaeology

San Manuel Band of Mission Indians•Highland, CA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Reporting to the Director, Cultural Resource Management, the Manager, Tribal History and Archaeology serves as a strategic guardian and steward of Serrano heritage, shaping how modern development and government action intersect with ancestral lands through culturally grounded analysis and forward‑thinking strategy. Forges partnerships and leads transformative efforts in research, consultation, data management, and policy to ensure the Tribe’s cultural resources are protected, honored, and revitalized for future generations. This role helps guide the Tribe’s long-term vision for heritage stewardship, ensuring that cultural sovereignty and Serrano identity remain central in all decision-making.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, Historical Linguistics, or related fields required.
Minimum four (4) years of experience working in the field of archaeology, cultural resources management, or related fields with two (2) years inclusive of experience working for federal, state, tribal government as an anthropologist, archaeologist, or historic preservationist is required.
Minimum three (3) years of direct supervisory experience is required.
Possess current knowledge of Serrano history and archaeology, as well as governmental regulations, legal requirements, professional standards, and trends within the field of cultural resources management.
Research experience using records produced by governments and indigenous communities (both past and contemporary), as well as those professions that often research native peoples (ethnographers, archaeologists, anthropologists, linguists, historians).
Experience in working within and honoring tribal protocols related to access to and use of archaeological and ethnographic materials.
Willing to adapt to the evolving needs and priorities of the tribal community.
Maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and integrity in all matters.
Demonstrated ability to communicate expertly and tactfully, orally and in writing, with various audiences.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, ArcGIS, cultural data management software such as PastPerfect and OnBase.
Outstanding organizational skills and attention to detail, as well as the ability to meet deadlines, and apply policies and protocols consistently.
A valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record as determined by the insurance carrier is required.

Nice To Haves

A doctoral degree in these fields is preferred.
Equivalent combination of education and progressive, relevant, and direct experience may be considered in lieu of minimum educational and/or supervisory requirements indicated above, per tribal policy.

Responsibilities

Oversees and directs the timely responses to project scoping requests from government agencies and cultural/environmental firms regarding proposed federal, state, and local-level infrastructure development within Serrano ancestral territory. By reviewing and analyzing project plans, environmental assessments, archeological data, geotechnical reports, ethnographic information, and historical data. Drafts and provides culturally appropriate project-specific treatment language, mitigation measures, conditions of approval, and other relevant permit language.
Serves as a senior subject matter expert and advisor to Tribal leaders, CRM staff, and internal departments on Serrano history, archaeology, language, and culture as well as legislative, regulatory, and political actions affecting the proper management of tribal cultural resources across Serrano ancestral territory.
Leads and strengthens governmental relationships and collaborative partnerships with local, state, national agencies and tribal governments on matters of cultural resources-based policies, practices, and agreement documents. Recommends and develops strategic and programmatic policies and actions to protect, maintain, and promote the cultural resources of the Tribe that honor and implement Yuhaaviatam’s principles and practices pertaining to heritage stewardship.
Develops, directs and evaluates a comprehensive Historical Linguistics program focused on the documentation, analysis, and preservation of historical recordings of the Serrano language. Facilitates and manages interdepartmental cooperation with the Serrano Language Revitalization Program and Tribal Archives regarding acquisition and dissemination of Serrano language to the Tribal community.
Represents the department and provides leadership-level participation in internal Tribal committees, boards, task forces, and working groups that oversee and guide community needs, priorities, and concerns related to all aspects of heritage stewardship.
Oversees and ensures effective management of key information databases, including the department’s digital project management and repository platform (OnBase), and the CRM library, GIS program, and access to CA CHRIS centers to gather data for the GIS program.
Performs other duties as assigned to support the eﬃcient operation of the department.
Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring and training employees; planning, assigning reviewing and directing work; evaluating and appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems. Makes hiring decisions and designs individual development plans with succession planning in mind for all key roles.