Positions open at NIEA
About NIEA
The National Indian Education Association (NIEA) was founded in 1969, in Minneapolis, MN, by Native educators who were anxious to find solutions to improve the education systems for Native students. NIEA adheres to the organization’s founding principles:
1) to bring Native educators together to explore ways to improve schools and the schooling of Native students.
2) to promote the maintenance and continued development of Native languages and cultures.
3) to develop and implement strategies for influencing local, state, and federal policy and policymakers.
At NIEA, work is driven by seven core values:
1. Honesty, Integrity, Transparency;
2. Purposeful, Intentional, Mindful;
3. Reliable, Dependable, Commitment, Hard Work, Dedication;
4. Respect;
5. Compassion, Empathy;
6. Community, Unity, Family, Service to Others; and
7. Generosity
These values have been established and aligned with the NIEA Strategic Plan. The values represent the environment staff and partners consider a part of their lives and encompass the work done to meet the mission and vision.
Legislative and Federal Policy Director
Position Overview
Full-Time | Exempt
Salary Range: $115,000–$125,000
The Legislative and Federal Policy Director is a senior leadership role responsible for shaping and advancing NIEA’s federal legislative and policy agenda. This position leads national advocacy efforts to protect and strengthen Native education through direct engagement with Congress, federal agencies, Tribal leaders, and national coalitions.
This role is ideal for a policy leader who understands that education policy is Tribal sovereignty in action, and who can translate Native priorities into powerful legislative strategies, compelling testimony, and practical policy tools for Native communities.
We encourage interested applicants to review the full job description for additional details about responsibilities, qualifications, and expectations by clicking the button below.
To apply: Please submit a resume or CV, along with a cover letter, to Jason Dropik, Executive Director, at jdropik@niea.org.
Social Media & Communications Intern (Paid)
Position Overview
Pay is $18.40 per hour
NIEA is seeking a motivated student to join our Communications team as a paid Social Media & Communications Intern. This hands-on role offers real-world experience in social media management, digital content creation, and nonprofit communications while supporting national initiatives such as Hill Week and the NIEA Convention.
Interns will help create and design social media content, support advocacy and outreach campaigns, and assist with communications that uplift Native educators, students, and Tribal Nations nationwide. Students attending or affiliated with Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) are strongly encouraged to apply.
How to Apply:
Please send your resume and a short cover letter to Jennifer Wilson, Membership & Communications Manager, at jwilson@niea.org.
Application deadline: February 8, 2026.
For full position details, please review the complete job description using the button below.