Legal Director

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.

HOW TO APPLY:

Apply Now