Tribal Engagement & Communication Specialist

Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation•Toppenish, WA

3d•$31

About The Position

This position is responsible for the planning, organizing, and directing the operational activities for the Tribal Council, including facilitating meetings and events either hosted by or attended by the Tribal Council. It ensures effective cross-departmental communication and collaboration to implement the policy objectives and strategic priorities set forth by Tribal Council. The position is responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring strategies, policies, and programs that transparency, effectiveness, and sustainable communication between Tribal Council, Tribal Governmental Departments, Tribal Entities, and the Tribal Community. The position works closely with the Governmental Affairs Liaison and the Public Information Officer to ensure coordination and alignment of all governmental and public interactions. The incumbent leads project and initiative management efforts that align with Tribal Council directives and ensure performance by tracking and using data analytics. It leads and assists with production of reports for both internal and public publication.

Requirements

Knowledge of the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation and the Treaty with the Yakamas of June 9, 1855, 12 Stat.951.
Knowledge of the Resolution of February 1944, T-38-56, T-10-61, and other foundational resolutions.
Knowledge of Yakama Nation Tribal Governmental Structure, including General Council Executive Officers, Tribal Council, General Council Resolutions, Tribal Council Resolutions, and Committee Actions.
Knowledge of the Yakama Nations's federal, state, county and local government structures.
Knowledge and experience working with tribal governments and Native American communities.
Knowledge and ability to use Microsoft 365 Suite.
Knowledge to use the internet accurately and efficiently.
Ability to work independently, prioritize assignments, and exercise initiative and good judgement in matters of a sensitive and confidential nature.
Ability to work professionally and productively with limited supervision.
Ability to attend offsite government hearings, sessions, forums, or other gatherings during and after normal business hours.
Ability to conduct research, evaluate, and present data on Tribal, Local, State, and Federal policy and law.
Ability to maintain professionalism and manage a variety of frustrations.
Ability to demonstrate strong editing and proofreading skills.
Ability to demonstrate excellent written, verbal, organization, planning and presentation, and analytical skills.
Skill in adapting to a variety of audiences, both tribal and non-tribal.
Bachelor's degree in political science, government, communications, or other similar majors of study. OR four years of experience in communication and /or public relations work.
Must present highly professional image and outstanding customer service to internal and external constituents.
Required to pass a pre-employment background check.
All employees are subject to random drug tests to test the suspected use of alcohol or drugs in the workplace.
Required to pass a pre-employment drug test.
Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's License with the ability to obtain a Yakama Nation Driving Permit.

Nice To Haves

Enrolled Yakama Preference, but all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Lead the planning, execution, and evaluation of cross-departmental projects and initiatives, ensuring alignment with Tribal Council directives, timely completion of deliverables, and effective use of resources.
Establish systems to track project performance and progress, utilizing key performance indicators and date analytics to ensure accountability and continuous improvement.
Prepare and present regular performance reports to Executive Committee, summarizing operational metrics, outcomes, and recommendations to support data-informed decision-making.
Coordinate internal activities and resource allocation to ensure all departments and initiative remain aligned with the strategic goals and policy priorities set by Tribal Council leadership.
Create comprehensive, yearly plans that outline the priorities of Tribal Council and its committees. This includes identifying key messages, target audiences (e.g., tribal members, federal agencies, media, local communities), and the most effective channels to reach them.
Standardize all official communications from Tribal Council to ensure a consistent voice across all platforms.
Tack news, social media, and community feedback to identify potential issues and opportunities for engagement.
Coordinate all operational activities for meetings and events, from small, internal Tribal Council gatherings to large-scale public forums, conferences, or ceremonies hosted by the Tribal Council. This includes venue selection, technology setup, and agenda management.
Ensure that meetings of the Tribal Council and other bodies run smoothly and efficiently. This could involve preparing agendas, compiling briefing books for Tribal Council members, and coordinating presentations from staff or external guests.
Attend Tribal Council meetings, General Membership meetings, and other inter-tribal events as required to represent the Tribal Council or gather information.
Work across tribal government divisions and departments to ensure that work is aligned with the Tribal Council's objectives. This includes facilitating meetings and information-sharing to prevent internal miscommunications.
Work closely with the Governmental Affairs Liaison to maintain and strengthen the government-to-government relationships with federal, state, and local agencies and governments.
Work with the Public Information Officer to manage media relations, including press releases, interviews, and public statements to ensure message consistency to internal and external audiences.
Ensure that Tribal Council's policy decisions and directives are communicated clearly and transparently to both the public and to external governmental bodies.
Other duties as assigned.