Job Description
Tribal Justice and Governance Director Job: IRC45138
Description
Job Title Tribal Justice and Governance Director
Location Fairbanks, AK, US
Organization Name Tribal Government and Client Services
Job Summary
Job Summary: The Tribal Justice and Governance Division Director provides leadership and direction for the Tribal Justice and Governance Division operations, developing and implementing strategies, programs, and services to achieve tribal self-determination in tribal government services, tribal enrollment, tribal courts, and child welfare. The Division Director will develop programming to provide guidance to tribal governments on a wide range of tribal governmental development issues, including assistance in tribal constitutions, codes, election, citizenship issues, and tribal court development and operation. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of tribal affairs, governance and justice, and the ability to balance administrative duties with advocacy and tribal engagement to drive positive outcomes advancing tribal sovereignty and self-determination.
Adhere to the TCC Ch’eghwtsen’ model of service and guiding principle which requires providing timely and effective service along with the ability to interact with others in a way that inspires trust and demonstrates respect, compassion and empathy.
Essential Functions
Essential Functions: This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by incumbent(s).
Representative Duties: Under the direct supervision of the Tribal Government and Client Services Executive Director, job incumbent will:
1. Manages the day-to-day operation, direction, and supervision of the Tribal Justice and Governance Division, including monitoring staff, program activities, initiatives, resolutions, and organizational plans. Assist staff in developing and implementing short-term and long-term strategic initiatives. Collaborates throughout TCC and partners to advance program initiatives and improve future outcomes.
2. Manages program budgets, grants and expenditures, ensuring compliance of funding requirements. Monitor and evaluate grant applications, progress and related reports.
3. Evaluates internal organizational structure and program design to best meet the needs of Tribes. Develop programming and services to deliver quality assistance that advance the development of tribal governments, tribal courts, and child welfare.
4. Research and develop sources of funding and revenues to support growth of Tribal Justice and Governance. This includes developing relationships with partners to create funding opportunities, seek and apply for funding or grants in alignment with program objectives.
5. Responsible for overseeing the development, implementation and execution of inter-tribal courts and healing to wellness courts.
6. Supports Tribes in exercising their inherent sovereign authority through development and expansion of their tribal justice systems, which includes technical assistance on special criminal jurisdiction in Violence Against Women Act, civil diversion agreements, juvenile justice agreements, and criminal rule 11.
7. Develop programming to support family preservation and reunification within the child welfare system.
8. Provide and/or develop services to provide technical guidance to Tribes through creation and amendments to tribal constitutions, codes and/or policies covering all aspects of a tribal justice and government. This includes, but not limited to, IRA and non-IRA tribal constitutions and tribal laws.
9. Facilitate the development and use of alternative and informal process in the resolution of disputes.
10. Completes internal and external reports, white papers, talking points, and presentations.
11. Keeps current on tribal issues and stays current on relevant political and legislative activities.
12. Track and report identified trends, gaps, and other data pertaining to tribal justice, for grant evaluation and improvements to the program.
Other Responsibilities:
1. Other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
1. Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Law, or Justice. A Juris Doctorate or Master’s degree is preferred.
2. Five (5) years of experience working with tribal governments in Alaska.
3. Four (4) years of experience in Federal Indian law, tribal governance or tribal justice programs.
4. Three (3) years of experience of increased responsibility in leadership, management and supervision.
5. Three (3) years of experience in budget and grant management.
6. Must pass background check pursuant to federal Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act requirements and the State of Alaska background check.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
1. In-depth knowledge of Federal Indian Law, tribal government operations and tribal justice systems, including tribal constitutions, codes and policies.
2. Considerable knowledge of Tribal, Federal and State laws, ordinances and regulations that may affect the resolution of disputes in tribal villages.
3. Knowledge of legal practices, standards, and court procedures; including strategic planning, budget preparation and management in a legal environment.
4. Strong leadership and supervisory skills with ability to oversee multiple programs, initiatives and staff.
5. Strong organizational skills including attention to detail, time management, ability to prioritize and adjust to meet tribal court objectives. Must be able to function independently as well as cooperatively in a team setting.
6. Excellent verbal, written, interpersonal skills, including public speaking and advocacy.
7. Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills with ability to problem solve, make sound decisions, and address complex issues.
8. Ability to understand and respect tribal self-determination and cultural differences to meet the unique needs of tribal communities.
9. Professional level computer skills, including Microsoft Office suite programs.
Supervision: This position supervises Tribal Justice and Governance Division program staff.
Supervision
Physical Demands: The Tribal Justice and Governance Division Director will work out of the TCC Central Office in Fairbanks. This job is generally sedentary, but at times requires moderate to extensive travel to rural areas of Alaska by air, automobile, or boat. Travel by light aircraft is frequent. Sub-zero arctic temperature is often encountered in the winter months, and may be subject to harsh environmental conditions while performing village visits.
Summation
Summation: A successful candidate will possess extensive knowledge of tribal government, justice systems, and Federal Indian laws and regulations. Candidate will have proven leadership and supervisory abilities with the ability to lead, delegate, execute and prioritize effectively. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills are needed for the wide range of audience from tribal to high-level bureaucrats. Problem solving and analytical abilities are required to work on complex village issues, tribal laws, analysis of state and federal statutes and regulations. Some village situations are divisive, requiring mediation skills. Essential qualities include adaptability, resourcefulness and ability to work under pressure in a dynamic environment. The successful candidate would be passionate about supporting tribal self-determination and advancing tribal sovereignty, so Tribes can continue to meet the health and welfare needs of their tribal members.
