Careers in Indian Country
Things to Consider When Applying for Tribal Jobs
Tribes are looking for Native employees to serve communities across the country. Obtaining a position you want with your tribe may not always be immediate, but it is possible. There are thousands of tribal employees who can give you advice. Connect with one today and learn more about how you can be of service in and outside of your community.
Meaningful Relationships
Develop strong connections with elders, department heads, and tribal leadership. Invest time to learn more about them and what they do.
Community Knowledge
Learn information, current and historical, about the community because this is important in aligning work and progress for the tribe. It also demonstrates professional commitment.
Systems Thinking
Tribes function and operate on a variety of different levels with federal, state, and local entities. You must be able to think critically about how decisions are made and carried out based upon input from tribal leaders, community members, federal law, and cultural norms.
Strategic Thinking
Process and procedure play a crucial role in the successful implementation of ideas and plans. You must be able to provide good connectivity between an idea, a plan, and an outcome.
Communication Skills
Develop strong connections with elders, department heads, and tribal leadership. Invest time to learn more about them and what they do.
Willingness to Work
Be willing to volunteer and apply for entry-level positions. Through those experiences, you will be able to build professional relationships and learn more about tribal work culture – helping you throughout your career.
Experience
When possible, volunteer or intern for a tribe, or an organization or agency that works with tribes. Although tribal employers look for experience in a variety of fields, previous experience in tribal employment does enhance your résumé.
Commitment
Every job comes with challenges. Working for a tribe does not mean it will be easy. As in any other work environment, you must prove your worth and service.
Attitude of Service
Although many people want to serve their communities, it is often hard to demonstrate honesty, transparency, and consistency. Giving back is at the core of great leadership. People want to see you in the community.
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Careers in Indian Country
Tribes are looking for Native employees to serve communities across the country.
Tribal Colleges and Universities
Tribal colleges and universities provide dynamic higher education opportunities, most on or near reservation lands. Known for their remarkable programs, culturally-relevant curricula, and familial student care – tribal colleges allow students to further their careers, attain an advanced degree, or better support their communities.