OUTREACH AND EDUCATION SPECIALIST

Spokane Tribe•Spokane, WA

21d•$25 - $32

About The Position

The Spokane Tribe of Indians (STOI) is a leading proponent of the Phase 2 Implementation Plan (P2IP), a 20-year, Tribally-led effort to test the feasibility of reintroducing anadromous into the Upper Columbia and Spokane Rivers above Chief Joseph and Grand Coulee dams that were built without fish passage. This historic initiative aims to restore salmon to their historic habitats, revitalize Tribal traditional and cultural practices, and return ecosystem function to the blocked area. The Outreach and Education Specialist is a key role responsible for connecting the Spokane Tribal community and the broader public to the mission, progress, and cultural significance of the P2IP. This position will translate complex scientific research and restoration efforts into engaging and accessible information, fostering understanding, support, and involvement in this landmark project. The Specialist will work collaboratively with the STOI Anadromous Fisheries Program, the Upper Columbia United Tribes (UCUT) P2IP Committee, and other partners to ensure consistent and effective communication. This role serves as a liaison between the technical project team, the Spokane Tribal community, schools, local governments, and the public. The goal is to build awareness of the salmon reintroduction effort, honor and revive cultural connections to salmon, and communicate the project's benefits and progress.

Requirements

Must have a valid Washington State driver’s license and must meet insurance requirements
H.S. diploma or equivalent
Four years of relevant experience in education and/or outreach
Post-high school education in a related field may be considered as experience
Cultural Competency: Deep understanding of and respect for the Spokane Tribe's history and the cultural significance of salmon. Ability to communicate effectively and appropriately within Tribal communities.
Communication: Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal skills with the ability to tailor messages for scientific, community, and youth audiences. Experience in public speaking and presentation.
Creativity: Ability to develop engaging educational materials and outreach campaigns using various media (print, digital, video).
Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively in a multi-partner, fast-paced environment, building consensus and fostering positive relationships.
Organization: Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks, deadlines, and events simultaneously.
Technical Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and familiar with content management systems, social media platforms, and graphic design tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite) is a plus.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Education, Native American Studies, Environmental Science, Public Relations, or related field.
A certification relevant to the above fields may also be considered.
Familiarity of Spokane Tribe history, language, and/or traditional practices.
Familiarity with salmon or socio-environmental issues associated with the Columbia River Basin.
Professional experience working for or with a Native American Tribe.

Responsibilities

Tribal Community Outreach: Develop and implement culturally sensitive outreach strategies to inform and engage Spokane Tribal members, Elders, and youth about P2IP activities, opportunities for involvement, and the project's connection to restoring Tribal traditional and cultural practices.
Cultural Liaison: Work with Tribal Elders and Cultural Committees to gather and share traditional knowledge related to salmon, ensuring its integration into educational materials and project understanding.
Event Coordination: Plan and host community gatherings, presentations, and events at the Tribal headquarters and in surrounding communities to provide updates on the P2IP and celebrate project milestones.
Salmon-in-the-Classroom: Function as the Salmon-in-the-Classroom Coordinator for tribal and Spokane regional schools. Assist with installation and maintenance of aquarium systems; acquisition of supplies, including salmon eggs; complete necessary permitting; organize release events and programming
Development Curriculum Creation: Develop educational materials and programs for the Spokane Tribal schools and the wider community, focusing on the cultural and ecological significance of salmon, the history of the Columbia River, and the science behind salmon and the P2IP reintroduction effort.
Youth Engagement: Organize and lead educational field trips to project sites (e.g., acclimation facilities, spawning grounds, fish releases) for Tribal youth to connect them with the environment and the work being done.
Presentation Development: Create presentations and interpretive materials for diverse audiences, translating complex fisheries science into clear, compelling narratives.
Branding: Develop logos and other materials the Anadromous Program can use for vehicles, workwear, and other forms of media so staff are readily identifiable to the community.
Content Creation: Develop and manage content for various communication channels, including the Spokane Tribe's website, social media platforms, newsletters, and press releases, to share P2IP stories and updates.
Partner Coordination: Serve as a point of contact and collaborate with the UCUT P2IP Committee and communications staff from partner tribes (Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, Coeur d'Alene Tribe) and partner agencies (e.g., BPA, Reclamation, WDFW, and others) to align messaging and coordinate public information.
Public Inquiries: Respond to inquiries from the public, media, and other stakeholders regarding the P2IP project.
Documentation: Photograph and videotape project activities to build a visual library for outreach and archival purposes.
Perform Comparable Duties with other DNR Programs.
Other Duties as Assigned.