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

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.