Workforce Development Program Participant

Cowlitz Indian Tribe•Ridgefield, WA

About The Position

The Workforce Development program is a customized career exploration opportunity for enrolled Cowlitz Tribal Members, based on background and interest. Qualified applicants may participate in a comprehensive 18-month Management Rotation Program designed to prepare them for future management and leadership opportunities within ilani. Participants may complete structured rotations across operational and administrative departments, gaining exposure to casino operations, hospitality, organizational leadership, regulatory requirements, and Tribal culture and governance. They work with department leaders, executive sponsors, mentors, and program administrators to develop management skills, complete assigned projects, and demonstrate readiness for increased leadership responsibility. Participants are expected to complete assigned rotations, projects, training, and evaluations; meet performance, conduct, and attendance standards; remain receptive to coaching and assignments outside their prior experience; and demonstrate growth in leadership, communication, decision-making, and business knowledge. They must maintain confidentiality, comply with licensing, regulatory, safety, and organizational requirements, and deliver a final capstone project or presentation demonstrating knowledge gained during the program.

Requirements

Must be an enrolled Cowlitz Tribal Member.
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in business administration, hospitality management, organizational leadership, finance, human resources, gaming management, or a related field.
At least five years of progressively responsible supervisory or management experience.
An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to foster a supportive and enabling team environment.
Demonstrated experience leading employees, managing projects, resolving workplace or operational issues, and achieving measurable results.
Strong written, verbal, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
Ability to analyze information, exercise sound judgment, and make effective recommendations.
Ability to work successfully in a culturally diverse, highly regulated, and guest-focused environment.
Proficiency with standard business software and ability to learn department-specific systems.
Ability to sit, stand, and walk for up to an 8-hour shift.
Ability to lift and carry 40 lbs.
Willingness to work in a smoking environment.
Willingness to adhere to company health and safety measures.
Willingness to work varying schedules based on departmental need.

Nice To Haves

Experience in gaming, hospitality, entertainment, Tribal government, or another regulated industry.
Experience working within a Tribal organization or with Tribal communities.
Knowledge of casino resort operations, regulatory compliance, budgeting, and performance management.
Demonstrated commitment to continued professional and leadership development.

Responsibilities

Promote superior guest service.
Maintain and perpetuate a positive organizational culture according to the principles of the Spirit of Tâlícn and ilani Core Values.
Successfully complete an 18-month schedule of departmental rotations.
Learn the core functions, responsibilities, performance measures, and operational challenges of assigned departments.
Participate in rotations that may include casino operations, hotel operations, food and beverage, finance, marketing, security, compliance, people and culture, facilities, information technology, and other business areas.
Perform meaningful work assignments and contribute to departmental operations during each rotation.
Develop an understanding of Tribal history, culture, sovereignty, governance, and the economic importance of Tribal gaming.
Learn and apply applicable gaming regulations, internal controls, employment requirements, safety standards, and organizational policies.
Build effective working relationships with leaders, team members, Tribal representatives, regulatory partners, and other stakeholders.
Observe and participate in management activities, including staffing, scheduling, budgeting, performance management, guest service, conflict resolution, and operational planning.
Lead or support projects intended to improve service, efficiency, communication, team member engagement, or business performance.
Analyze operational issues and present practical recommendations to department and executive leadership.
Attend leadership development courses, mentoring sessions, operational meetings, and program check-ins.
Establish and maintain an individual development plan with measurable learning objectives.
Prepare written summaries, presentations, and evaluations at the conclusion of each rotation, if applicable.
Demonstrate professionalism, sound judgment, adaptability, and respect throughout the program.
Maintain regular attendance and flexibility to work varying schedules based on departmental need.
Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information, including information about team members, guests, business operations, and Tribal matters.
Complete assigned rotations, projects, training, and evaluations; meet established performance, conduct, and attendance standards; and comply with licensing, regulatory, safety, and organizational requirements.
Deliver a final capstone project or presentation demonstrating knowledge gained during the program.
Perform other duties as assigned.