JOB TITLE:

Legal Director

DEPARTMENT:

Legal Department

SUPERVISOR:

Tribal Council

SALARY:

$171,912.00 annually

JOB SUMMARY:

Provide comprehensive legal services to the Nisqually Tribal government and departments. Lead and oversee the Nisqually Legal Department to advance and protect the Tribe’s interests.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Leadership & Department Management
  • Lead and manage the administrative and strategic operations of the Nisqually Tribe Legal Department
  • Collaborate with Tribal Council to establish departmental priorities and implement strategic plans that strengthen the Legal Department’s capacity and effectiveness.
  • Oversee the Legal Department’s budget, grants, and resources ensuring responsible and strategic allocation.
  • Lead, mentor, and supervisor attorneys and staff to foster professional development and achieve departmental goals.
  • Provide guidance and support to Legal Department staff on complex legal matters, projects, and departmental initiatives.
  • Legal Advisory & Compliance
  • Deliver expert legal counsel to the Tribal Council on governance, policy, contracts, and compliance matters
  • Retain, coordinate, and oversee outside counsel to support the Tribe’s legal priorities and strategic objectives.
  • Negotiate, review, and manage commercial contracts on behalf of the Tribe.
  • Act as liaison for Tribal business, financial, and real estate planning and development projects.
  • Advise Tribal Council on federal, state, and tribal law compliance, grant obligations, contracts, and internal policies.
  • Draft, review, and manage contracts, ensuring legal compliance, accuracy, and risk mitigation.
  • Collaborate with the Tribe to develop, amend, and enforce tribal laws, codes, and policies.
  • Litigation & Tribal Representation
  • Serve as chief legal advisor to all Tribal departments, including law enforcement, health, housing, HR, finance, social services, land planning, natural resources, and other administrative units.
  • Represent the Tribe in judicial, legislative, executive, and administrative proceedings, advocating for Tribal interests and sovereignty.
  • Litigate civil, criminal, and Indian Child Welfare cases in tribal, state, and federal courts as required to protect the Tribe’s legal interests.
  • Advocate and negotiate on behalf of the Tribe across local, state, and federal matters, promoting Tribal priorities and sovereignty.
  • Participate in Tribal Council meetings, providing legal guidance and strategic recommendations.
  • Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

  • Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an ABA-accredited law school, with a strong foundation in federal, state, and Indian law.
  • Licensed to practice law in the State of Washington and in federal court.
  • At least 10 years of legal practice, with progressively responsible experience in litigation, contracts, and advisory roles.
  • Five or more years of Indian law experience.
  • Extensive experience in Indian law, including federal, state, and tribal legal matters, ideally 10+ years.
  • Must possess a valid Washington State Driver’s license and maintain a driving record that meets the minimum requirements established by Nisqually Indian Tribes vehicle insurance provider.
  • Successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check.
  • The ability to work with vulnerable populations including adults and children.
  • Must pass a State and National (FBI) criminal history background check prior to employment.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

  • Knowledge of the Nisqually Indian Tribe’s history, customs, traditions, and ability to demonstrate cultural sensitivity.
  • Experience working with Federally Recognized Tribes.

To apply, Click Here