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 Analyst

The National Indian Education Association (NIEA) is seeking a full-time Legislative and Federal Policy Analyst to join our team in Washington, D.C. This position is integral to advancing Native education policy at the federal level by building support and collaborating with key stakeholders, coalition partners, and policymakers. As a key member of the Policy team, you will assist in developing research, advocating for priorities, and representing NIEA in various policy-related settings.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop and lead advocacy priorities on federal policies affecting Native education.

  • Represent NIEA at policy meetings, conferences, and forums to advance the organization’s mission.

  • Draft high-quality policy papers, briefings, and testimony to inform legislative action.

  • Foster relationships with Tribal leaders, Native education advocates, federal partners, and others.

  • Coordinate and support NIEA’s Hill Week, workshops, and webinars.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in public policy, education, Native American studies, or related field.

  • 3+ years of direct policymaking or advocacy experience.

  • Familiarity with Native communities and Tribal governance.

  • Knowledge and passion for furthering the mission of NIEA and a commitment to Native students and enhancing their educational opportunities.

Salary: $70,000–$80,000
Location: Washington, D.C.
To Apply: Interested candidates should email a cover letter, resume, and letters of reference in a single PDF to Rusty Brown at RBrown@niea.org.

For more information, please refer to the full job description attached.