ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT: The Education and Cultural Learning Department of the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians supports the academic, cultural, and personal growth of Tribal citizens and families. The department centers Tataviam identity in all educational efforts—ranging from early childhood to adult learning—through culturally grounded curriculum development, academic advising, scholarships, and outreach. We work to reclaim and revitalize traditional knowledge systems while supporting our students in navigating Western institutions.

ABOUT THE POSITION: The Director of the Education and Cultural Learning Department is responsible for advancing the Tribe’s educational sovereignty by managing all departmental programs, partnerships, curriculum development efforts, and staff. This leadership role requires a deep understanding of Indigenous education, experience with curriculum and program development, strong fiscal management skills, and the ability to mentor and supervise a multidisciplinary team. The Director will play a critical role in building partnerships with schools, universities, and cultural institutions to ensure educational access and cultural preservation for current and future generations.

JOB TITLE: EXTENSION DIVISION DIRECTOR

JOB TYPE: Full-Time

SALARY RANGE: $35.00 To $37.00 Hourly

BENEFITS: Health coverage, paid time off, cultural holiday observance, professional development support, and hybrid work options.

REPORTS TO: Chief Administrative Officer and Tribal President

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

 REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: *Please consider applying if you meet most of the above qualifications and are eager and willing to learn the additional skills required to execute the position’s essential job duties and responsibilities. Professional development is an integral part of this position.

• At least 5 years of experience in education, youth development, curriculum design, or a related field.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing educational or cultural programs.
• Strong knowledge of Indigenous pedagogy, educational sovereignty, and culturally responsive practices.
• Budget management and grant administration experience.
• Experience supervising staff and managing team-based projects.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Commitment to advancing Tribal values, cultural preservation, and self-determination.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Indigenous Studies, Curriculum Development, or related field.
• Experience working within Tribal governments, Native organizations, or Title VI/Indian Education programs.
• Familiarity with local school districts and state education policy.
• Knowledge of Fernandeño Tataviam or Southern California Native culture and history.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: Duties are performed primarily in the field, but also in the office. Travel is required to various locations in the region for meetings, conferences, speaking engagements, and site visits. Travel costs required for the job will be reimbursed at no more than the approved mileage rate. Evening and weekend work are required. 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 accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function.

• Possible fieldwork may be required and subject to the environmental conditions
• of the season
• Ability to work in a standard office setting, with considerable sitting and viewing of
• monitor.
• Requires reaching continually throughout the workday (mouse, keyboard, and
• telephone).
• May include lifting thirty pounds on an infrequent basis. Proper lifting techniques
• are required.
• Must use a personal cell phone for communications with supervisors and colleagues.

CONFIDENTIALITY

This position develops, maintains, and is responsible for safeguarding the computer/electronic and hardcopy file folders containing sensitive and proprietary information about FTBMI and its members. If hired, the applicant will be required to sign a confidentiality agreement. The applicant must maintain confidentiality of all work and files pertaining to enrollment, clients, survey results, and all other material that may identify individuals by name (either directly or by reference), as set forth by FTBMI. Any violation in this matter may result in immediate termination of employment.