Administration - Sovereign Lands and Traditional Resources Executive Director Greater Seattle, WA Area

The Puyallup Tribe of Indians is committed to protecting and exercising the inherent inalienable sovereign rights of the Tribe and Individuals in the interest of the Medicine Creek Treat Territories, as stewards to ensure preservation of our cultural and environmental integrity for common good and prosperity for all.

Open: October 19, 2026

Close: When Filled

Job Title: Sovereign Lands and Traditional Resources Executive Director

Department: Administration

Reports To: Administrative Manager

Hours: 40 Hrs./Wk. – Full Time

Salary: Based on Salary Matrix+Benefits

Requisition: 965

*Salaries are market competitive. For accurate salary information, call (253)573-7863 or email jobs@puyalluptribe-nsn.gov. The Puyallup Tribe of Indians provides a generous benefits package that includes employer paid medical, dental, vision, life insurance, a retirement/401(k) plan with profit sharing, paid holidays, and paid time off including birthday leave.

Position Summary:

This position provides leadership and management control of the Sovereign Lands and Traditional Resources Division by defining and implementing the direction, goals and objectives of the departments assigned to the division and is responsible for the effectiveness and efficiency of department services for the development and protection of trust natural resources, protection of Indian Treaty rights, fish and wildlife resource management development, environmental quality guidance and regulatory direction, youth education and climate resilience. Works closely with the Tribal Council and Administration in interpreting and implementing approved decisions related to the Division.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Represents the Division and establishes and promotes the mission and direction of the Natural Resources Division.

Ensures full compliance across the Sovereign Lands and Traditional Resources Division Departments operating within the procedures set forth in applicable codes, policies and procedures and applicable federal law.

Provides administrative technical assistance, leadership, and supervision of Sovereign Lands and Traditional Resources Division Departments to assure compliance with policies and procedures.

Assists Directors or Programs in establishing departmental goals and objectives for the Annual Operations plan. Ensures departments are implementing teamwork strategies to meet organizational and departmental goals. Reviews goals and objectives regularly.

Performs strategic planning for the Division and Tribe per Tribal Council’s priorities.

Reviews and evaluates changes in federal, state laws and tribal code that will impact the delivery of services.

Builds positive and effective relationships at the state and federal level and serves as an advocates for department and program services.

Responsible for preparation, planning, and monitoring Departments budgets on a monthly basis with Department Directors.

Responsible for creating and ensuring compliance of Memorandum of Agreements or Understanding between Tribal Departments, the Tribe and Tribal entities, and the Tribe and local governments.

Maintains effective internal and external communications.

Provide leadership to departments to enable them to make decisions, organize, program design, prioritize and delegate tasks. Monitors and reviews Sovereign Lands and Traditional Resources Division Departments to improve effectiveness and efficiency.

Provides general oversight of the coordination, management, planning, oversight, and monitoring for the development and protection of trust natural resources, protection of Indian Treaty rights, fish and wildlife resource management development, environmental quality guidance and regulatory direction, youth education and climate resilience.

Facilitates Sovereign Lands and Traditional Resources Division Department Director meetings regularly. Organizes meetings between division departments and other Tribal departments as needed.

Notifies the Administrative Manager and Tribal Council regarding policy concerns and recommends revision and direction which may develop from housing or community development issues.

Approves expenditure requests from Department Directors to assure compliance with all tribal, state and federal government regulations and grant restrictions.

Participates and monitors internal and external audits of departments and implements necessary corrective actions with departments.

Responsible for projects as assigned by Administrative Manager or Tribal Council.

Keeps current on all areas of responsibility by attending executive level meetings, and attending trainings and workshops as needed.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Manages directors and managers within the Sovereign Lands and Traditional Resources Division as assigned by the Administrative Manager. Is responsible for the overall direction, coordination, and evaluation of this division. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Qualifications and Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) or Master's degree (M. A.) from four-year college or university in Natural Resources, Fisheries, Environmental Science or related field; and six years experience and/or training in a senior management level capacity managing subordinate program supervisors; or equivalent combination of education and management experience and/or training in overseeing departments or programs. Must demonstrate previous experience managing a departmental budget. Demonstrated knowledge of grant management required. Intermediate knowledge and experience in computer applications including word processing, spreadsheets and database required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Strong understanding of Tribal government operations, sovereignty, governance, and the unique role of Tribal Natural Resources.

Knowledge of Tribal, federal, and applicable state laws and regulations affecting Tribal programs.

Strong leadership, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Ability to manage multiple departments and competing priorities.

Ability to work effectively with elected officials, attorneys, department directors, employees, Tribal Members, and community members.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Ability to analyze complex operational issues and develop practical recommendations.

Ability to manage confidential and sensitive information.

Ability to build effective relationships across departments and Tribal entities.

Strong understanding of budgeting, financial management, staffing, and organizational planning.

Ability to lead through complex or sensitive situations while maintaining professionalism and appropriate confidentiality.

Ability to work independently and exercise sound administrative judgment.

Language Skills

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret the most complex documents. Ability to respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries or complaints. Ability to write speeches and articles using original or innovative techniques or style. Ability to make effective and persuasive speeches and presentations on controversial or complex topics to senior management, public groups, and/or boards of directors.

Mathematical Skills

Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference, and fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.

Reasoning Ability

Ability to apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to a wide range of intellectual and practical problems. Ability to deal with nonverbal symbolism (formulas, scientific equations, graphs, musical notes, etc.,) in its most difficult phases. Ability to deal with a variety of abstract and concrete variables.

Other Skills and Abilities

Must have and maintain a valid and unrestricted Washington State driver’s license. Driver’s license must not contain any restrictions that would prevent the employee from driving a GSA vehicle.

Participates in the development of the Puyallup Tribe of Indians Vision, Mission, and Strategic Direction.

Develops and maintains ethical and professional relationships by upholding a favorable public image of the Tribe by establishing and participates in the community (civic, industry, and professional).

Other Requirements

Must successfully pass a criminal background check prior to and periodically throughout employment.

Willing to attend training for professional development.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requires the ability to operate a personal computer, multi-line telephone, calculator, facsimile and photocopier.

Requires the ability to read, write, communicate, and interpret information accurately in English.

Requires the ability to concentrate and consistently produce accurate work.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.

The employee occasionally is required to stand and walk.

The employee is occasionally required to stand and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level is low to moderate.

The physical exertion is low to moderate.

Work is primarily performed in an office setting, with some field work.

There are frequent employee contacts and interruptions during the day.

Position may be stressful at times due to multi-tasking and critical deadlines and due to the sensitive or confidential issues being addressed. May need to respond after normal business hours.

Requires occasional travel using employee’s own transportation.

The Puyallup Tribe of Indians reserves the right to revise or change job duties and responsibilities as the need arises. This position description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

Indian Preference Employer as Required by Law

Online Application Tips:

1. If you are using a PC, use Chrome. If you are using a MAC, use Safari.
2. Upload additional documents (resume, cover letter, letters of recommendation, proof of Indian blood, etc.) to the resume tab as one (1) PDF file or email documents to jobs@puyalluptribe-nsn.gov and we can add them to your online application. Please send in copies of any degrees or certificates that you have been awarded.
3. Indian Hiring Preference – send in the appropriate documentation for the category you select. If you have any questions about the hiring preference policy or what document to send in, email us at jobs@puyalluptribe-nsn.gov or call (253) 573-7863.
4. Provide 3+ references (we cannot obtain references from direct family members – mother, father, grandparents, sisters, brothers, or children and this includes in laws). One reference must be your most recent supervisor. We prefer the rest of your references to include co-workers, subordinates, or other supervisors, but we can accept a personal reference from someone who is familiar with your work ethic, habits, and attendance. You can send in letters of recommendation to jobs@puyalluptribe-nsn.gov
5. To add more employment, education, references, etc., click on the small + sign at the top right corner of the page.
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7. After you submit your application, you will receive an email confirmation. If you do not receive an email, please call the office to confirm submission.

*Please do not wear perfumes, colognes, or strong scents to your interview. Some employees are allergic.

If you have any questions about the positions or the online application, please call (253) 573-7863 or email jobs@puyalluptribe-nsn.gov.

3001 Puyalupabsh St. Tacoma, WA 98404

Native American preference applies and job placements are given on a competitive basis, using job related factors. Because of the large number of applications received and limited job positions, your application will not guarantee employment.