NAGPRA Specialist

COMANCHE NATION - INDIAN TRIBE•Lawton, OK

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The NAGPRA Specialist is responsible for implementing, coordinating, and managing all activities related to the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) on behalf of the Comanche Nation. This position ensures the protection, identification, consultation, and repatriation of ancestral remains and cultural items, while maintaining respectful coordination with museums, federal agencies, and other tribal nations. The NAGPRA Specialist will uphold Comanche cultural values, traditions, and protocols throughout all repatriation processes.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, Native American Studies, Museum Studies, History, or a related field.
At least two (2) years of experience in NAGPRA compliance, cultural resource management, museum collections, or related work.
Knowledge of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (25 U.S.C. 3001 et seq.) and related federal regulations (43 CFR Part 10).
Understanding of Comanche history, culture, and traditional practices.
Strong communication, research, and writing skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive cultural materials respectfully.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and recordkeeping systems.
Strong interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills, including proficiency in developing and delivering presentations.
Outstanding judgement, sensitivity and high discretion.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and HR systems.
Knowledgeable with Excel (functions, data etc.)
Excellent attention to detail.
Must be able to travel.
Must be willing to submit to and pass a pre-employment and random drug testing.
Must be willing to submit to and pass a background investigation.
Must have a valid Oklahoma driver’s license and be insurable under the CN Motor Vehicle Policy.
Must be able to speak clearly in small group settings.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact for all NAGPRA-related matters involving the Comanche Nation.
Conduct research, documentation, and inventory review of ancestral remains and cultural items held by museums, universities, and federal or state agencies.
Coordinate consultation meetings with federal agencies, institutions, and tribal representatives regarding potential NAGPRA claims and repatriations.
Prepare official correspondence, claim letters, and required NAGPRA documentation.
Maintain accurate and confidential records of all repatriation activities and communications.
Work closely with the Comanche Nation NAGPRA Committee, Elders, and cultural leaders to ensure culturally appropriate repatriation and reburial procedures.
Assist in the development and implementation of tribal policies, protocols, and ordinances related to cultural resource protection and NAGPRA compliance.
Provide reports and updates to tribal leadership and relevant committees.
Collaborate with the Cultural Preservation Department to support educational outreach and cultural awareness related to NAGPRA and ancestral stewardship.
Represent the Comanche Nation at meetings, consultations, and conferences related to NAGPRA and cultural heritage.
Perform all duties in a manner that honors and upholds Comanche cultural values, ensuring that all ancestral and sacred materials are treated with dignity, respect, and in accordance with tribal traditions.
Conform to all CN Tribal policies and procedures.
Produce reports to the TA upon request.
All other duties as assigned by TA.

Benefits

Annual Leave (4 hours per pay period)
Sick Leave (4 hours per pay period)
Birthday Leave
Bereavement Leave (5 paid days off for specified family members)
Fifteen (15) Paid Holidays
Medical Insurance (100% employer paid for employee only)
Dental Insurance (100% employer paid for employee only)
Life Insurance (100% employer paid for employee only- $40K coverage)
401K-up to 3% match
Voluntary Medical Insurance (Spouse, Child(ren), and Family coverage available)
Voluntary Dental Insurance (Spouse, Child(ren), and Family coverage available)
Voluntary Vision Insurance (Employee, Spouse, Child(ren), and Family coverage available)
Voluntary Short-term Disability
Voluntary Long-term Disability
Voluntary Additional Employee Life Insurance
Voluntary Spouse, and Child Life Insurance
Voluntary AFLAC