Enterprise

IFAI has developed this draft position description to support Tribe’s food and agriculture goals by hiring additional food and agriculture employees. This document is strictly for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice nor create an attorney/client relationship.

Position Title: Director of Agriculture

Reports To: [Insert Supervisor Title]
Location: [Insert Location or Remote]
Employment Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time/Contract]
Salary Range: [Insert Range]

Position Summary:

The ________ Agriculture Department Director hereinafter referred to as the Director, will be responsible for planning, development, and implementation of agricultural projects in the ________ Nation. The Director will support the vision statement and action plan of the ________ Department of Agriculture as outlined in the ________ Agriculture Resource Management Plan (ARMP) as well as other goals and objectives as defined by the ________ community, ________ Tribal Business Council, and the ________ Natural Resource Conservation District (BNRCD).

Primary duties include working closely with ________ Nation agriculture producers (producers) to understand the current state of agriculture and provide department level support to the producers in accessing relevant agricultural information in a timely manner, gain access to federal programs, and analyze and develop relevant agricultural policies effecting producers. The Director will be responsible for representing the interests of ________ agriculture producers through regular updates to ________ Tribal Business Council, communications with federal agencies, and state agencies. The Director will advise the _______ Tribal Business Council on potential federal and Tribal policies that will affect agricultural operations, private and Tribal, on the ________ Nation. The Director will be responsible for forming good working relationships with local, state, and federal government programs and departments to develop lines of support and opportunities to expand ________ economic development through agricultural investments. The Director will be expected to create long range development plans to support the longevity and growth of the _______ Department of Agriculture pulling from Tribal, federal, and private funding sources. Project development for the ____ Agriculture Department should be guided by the action plan outlined in the __________ ARMP, and the Director will be responsible for assessing the status of the _______ ARMP with BNRCD support on an annual basis.

Key Responsibilities:

• Actively engage and inform the ________ Tribal Business Council on agriculture related issues and topics
• Provide departmental technical, educational, and outreach support to producers within the ________ Nation
• Oversee the implementation of the department’s goals as defined in the ________ ARMP
• Develop and manage budgets that may include Tribal, Federal, and private grant funds
• Administer federally funded programming including reporting, budgeting, and recordkeeping
• Participate in monthly BNRCD board meetings providing programmatic updates
• Prepare reports, policy analysis, and regular updates to the ________ Tribal Business Council
• Advise the ________ Tribal Business Council on pertinent federal, state, and Tribal agriculture policies and development of new policies in the interest of supporting producers on the ________ Nation
• Work with federal, state, and Tribal departments to coordinate and effectively deliver programmatic support to producers on the ________ Nation
• Develop annual workplans and development plans for the ________ Department of Agriculture and department staff
• Work with Tribal departments to coordinate and implement goals outlined in the ________ ARMP and other Tribal plans
• Implement department goals and objectives as defined by the ________ Tribal Business Council and the BNRCD
• Work with USDA and BIA at a high level to navigate and reduce roadblocks to effective federal program delivery and implementation, including but not limited to rangeland management, leasing, and misalignments across agencies in conservation program implementation
• Serve as a voice for ________ producers in national committees, advisory boards, and other civic bodies regarding agricultural issues
• Coordinate department staff in the dissemination of pertinent agriculture information to the ________ community through a variety of sources on a weekly basis (newspaper, radio, social media, mailers, etc.)
• Plan quarterly producer meetings in a variety of ________ communities to garner producer feedback, educate on agricultural opportunities, and build support for the ________ Department of Agriculture
• Significant travel on reservation with occasional off reservation travel
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) from four-year college or university
• Experience in securing and administering funds
• At least two years of management experience
• Strong interpersonal and administrative skills
• Five years’ experience in Tribal agriculture or general agricultural work
• Working knowledge of Indian land tenure and processes
• Experience in working and relationship building across government agencies in a positive manner to solve problems
• Working knowledge of federal agriculture policy
• Ability to speak effectively before groups
• Willingness to work with producers and groups from a variety of backgrounds and beliefs
• Ability to work in Microsoft Office and Google Suite applications
• Ability to positively receive feedback and instruction
• Ability to generate reports and required documentation in a timely manner
• Ability to manage department employees
• Excellent conflict resolution skills
• Excellent listening skills
• Critical thinking skills and ability to problem solve
• A valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in agriculture or natural resources related field

IFAI has developed this draft position description to support Tribe’s food and agriculture goals by hiring additional food and agriculture employees. This document is strictly for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice nor create an attorney/client relationship.

Position Title: Assistant Director of Agriculture

Reports To: [Insert Supervisor Title]
Location: [Insert Tribal Nation or Clinic Location]
Employment Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time/Contract]
Salary Range: [Insert Salary Information]

Position Summary:

The Assistant Director will be responsible for assisting the ______ Department of Agriculture Director, hereinafter referred to as the Director, in planning, development, and implementation of agricultural projects in the ______ Nation. The Assistant Director will support the vision statement and action plan of the ______ Department of Agriculture as outlined in the ______ Agriculture Resource Management Plan (ARMP) as well as other goals assigned by the Director.

Primary duties include working closely with ______ Nation agriculture producers (producers) to understand the current state of agriculture and provide direct support to the producers in accessing relevant agricultural information in a timely manner, gain access to federal programs, and provide education and outreach on relevant agricultural policies effecting producers. The Assistant Director will be expected to be onsite on a regular basis to offer support for any producers or community members on a walk-in basis, as well as participate in monthly ______ Natural Resource Conservation District (BNRCD) to provide updates to the board. The Assistant Director will also work closely with the USDA – NRCS and USDA – FSA ______ field offices to coordinate and deliver effective service and information to producers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide direct technical, educational, and outreach support to producers within the ______ Nation
• Assist the Director in implementing the goals as defined in the ______ ARMP
• Assist the Director in the development and management of budgets that may include Tribal, Federal, and grant funds
• Assist the Director in administering federally funded programming including reporting, budgeting, and recordkeeping
• Work with administrative staff and BNRCD to plan and host monthly BNRCD meetings and provide programmatic updates to the Board
• Assist the Director in preparing reports, policy analysis, and regular updates to the ______ Tribal Business Council
• Assist the Director in developing annual workplans and development plans for the ______ Department of Agriculture
• Work with other Tribal departments to implement goals set forth in the ______ ARMP and other goals as defined by the ______ Tribal Business Council and the Director
• Work with local, regional, and national federal agencies, non-profits, and grassroot organizations to provide necessary support to producers within the ______ Nation
• Work with USDA – FSA and NRCS ______ field offices to advise on roadblocks to program delivery and assist producers in accessing these programs through education and technical support
• Work with administrative staff to disseminate pertinent agriculture information to the ______ community through a variety of sources on a weekly basis (newspaper, radio, social media, mailers, etc.)
• Plan quarterly producer meetings in a variety of ______ communities to garner producer feedback, educate on agricultural opportunities, and build support for the ______ Department of Agriculture
• Significant travel on reservation with occasional off reservation travel
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) from four-year college or university
• Strong interpersonal and administrative skills
• Five years’ experience in Tribal agriculture or general agriculture
• Working knowledge of Indian land tenure and processes
• Ability to speak effectively before groups
• Willingness to work with producers from a variety of backgrounds and beliefs
• Ability to work positively with a variety government agency
• Ability to work in Microsoft Office and Google Suite applications
• Ability to positively receive feedback and instruction
• Ability to generate reports and required documentation in a timely manner
• Excellent listening skills
• Critical thinking skills and ability to problem solve
• A valid driver’s license

IFAI has developed this draft position description to support Tribe’s food and agriculture goals by hiring additional food and agriculture employees. This document is strictly for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice nor create an attorney/client relationship.

Position Title: Administrative Assistant

Reports To: [Insert Supervisor Title]
Location: [Insert Location or Remote]
Employment Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time/Contract]
Salary Range: [Insert Range]

Position Summary:

The ________ Department of Agriculture Administrative Assistant hereinafter will provide high level administrative support to ________ Department of Agriculture Director and Assistant Director, hereinafter referred to as the directors. The Administrative Assistant will support the directors on a day-to-day basis supporting both ________ Department of Agriculture’s communications and development efforts. The Administrative Assistant will also be responsible for the coordination of front office management in the MSU Extension center as well as day-to-day office maintenance. Duties include the drafting of outreach materials, letters, handling information requests, and performing clerical functions including but not limited to preparing agency and interdepartmental correspondence, coordinating ________ Natural Resource Conservation District monthly meetings, coordinating community meetings, receiving visitors, scheduling in person and virtual meetings, and general management and maintenance of the directors’ calendars. This is a wide-ranging position that will support general and some technical operations of the ________ Department of Agriculture, as well as representing the department to the public and other agencies and partners. The Administrative Assistant will often be the first contact between the ______ Department of Agriculture and the public and is responsible for projecting a positive image.

Key Responsibilities:

• Coordinate directors’ daily calendar
• Plan appointments, meetings, and events
• Arrange meeting materials in preparation for internal and community meetings
• Create PowerPoints, word documents, and excel spreadsheets as necessary for reports to the ________ Tribal Business Council
• Assist the directors in monitoring and reporting on project deliverables
• Make travel arrangements for ________ Department of Agriculture staff as necessary
• Record, type, and distribute meeting minutes
• Draft and distribute pertinent information to producers on a weekly basis through a variety of media sources
• Build a producer contact list
• Assist in the compilation of necessary materials for and assist with the preparation of grant applications and reports
• Assist in the planning and coordination of community events, department meetings, and BNRCD monthly meetings
• Greet visitors and route to the appropriate party
• Maintain a general working knowledge of department
• Answer incoming phone calls in a professional demeanor and direct calls to appropriate party
• Maintain phone system, including checking messages daily and update outgoing message as needed
• Organize general office tidiness, clean up and delegate monthly responsibilities to staff
• Run errands for events or general office needs
• Schedule Zoom calls for staff
• Set up and respond to general department emails and manage and distribute incoming correspondence
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Strong communication skills through a variety of platforms
• Proven administrative work experience or similar role
• Strong interpersonal and public relations skills
• Working knowledge of Tribal agriculture or general agricultural work
• Experience in working and relationship building in a positive manner
• Ability to interact in a positive way with agricultural producers
• Ability to work in Microsoft Office and Google Suite applications
• Ability to positively receive feedback and instruction
• Ability to generate reports and required documentation in a timely manner
• Ability to manage dynamic and changing tasks
• Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Google apps, and Internet
• Excellent organizational skills with an ability to think proactively, meet deadlines and prioritize work
• Ability to appropriately manage confidential information
• Ability to develop and maintain an orderly and up to date filing system
• Working knowledge of budget management
• Excellent listening skills
• A valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) from four-year college or university You may want to remove or reduce this
• College degree preferred, or comparable work experience with demonstrated writing and critical thinking

IFAI has developed this draft position description to support Tribe’s food and agriculture goals by hiring additional food and agriculture employees. This document is strictly for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice nor create an attorney/client relationship.

Position Title: Food Sovereignty Coordinator

Reports To: [Insert Supervisor Title]
Location: [Insert Location or Remote]
Employment Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time/Contract]
Salary Range: [Insert Salary Information]

Position Summary:

The Food Sovereignty Coordinator supports the Tribe’s efforts to strengthen local food systems, revitalize traditional foodways, and promote community self‑determination in food access, production, and policy. This position works collaboratively with tribal departments, community members, elders, youth, and regional partners to develop programs that protect cultural food knowledge, expand sustainable food production, and increase access to healthy, culturally relevant foods.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement, and evaluate food sovereignty initiatives aligned with tribal priorities and cultural values.
• Coordinate community gardens, seed-saving programs, traditional food harvesting activities, and food distribution efforts.
• Support the development of local food infrastructure such as greenhouses, farms, food hubs, or farmers’ markets.
• Assist in creating long‑term strategic plans for food sovereignty and food system resilience.
• Organize workshops, training, and community events focused on traditional foods, nutrition, gardening, food preservation, and land stewardship.
• Collaborate with elders and cultural knowledge keepers to document and revitalize traditional food practices.
• Engage youth through school partnerships, internships, and cultural education programs.
• Serve as a liaison between the Tribe and community members regarding food sovereignty initiatives.
• Build and maintain relationships with tribal departments, local producers, nonprofits, universities, and government agencies.
• Represent the Tribe in regional and national food sovereignty networks, conferences, and working groups.
• Seek collaborative opportunities that support food system development, cultural revitalization, and environmental sustainability.
• Assist with grant writing, reporting, and budget management for food sovereignty projects.
• Track program data, outcomes, and community impact.
• Ensure compliance with tribal policies, funding requirements, and food safety standards.
• Manage program materials, supplies, and equipment.

Qualifications:

• Experience in agriculture, food systems, community development, public health, or related fields.
• Knowledge of Indigenous food sovereignty principles and tribal community dynamics.
• Strong communication, facilitation, and relationship‑building skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups, including elders, youth, and partner organizations.
• Project management and organizational skills.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working for or with tribal governments or Indigenous communities.
• Knowledge of traditional ecological knowledge, cultural food practices, or land stewardship.
• Grant writing and program evaluation experience.
• Background in sustainable agriculture, horticulture, or natural resource management.

IFAI has developed this draft position description to support Tribe’s food and agriculture goals by hiring additional food and agriculture employees. This document is strictly for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice nor create an attorney/client relationship.

Position Title: Tribal Greenhouse Manager

Reports To: [Insert Supervisor Title]
Location: [Insert Location or Remote]
Employment Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time/Contract]
Salary Range: [Insert Range]

Position Summary:

The Tribal Greenhouse Manager oversees the daily operations of the Tribal greenhouse and supports the broader goals of food sovereignty, cultural revitalization, and sustainable agriculture. This role includes managing plant cultivation, coordinating seasonal production, supervising staff, and collaborating with Tribal departments and community members to ensure the greenhouse serves as a hub for education, food distribution, and traditional ecological knowledge.

Key Responsibilities:

Greenhouse Operations

• Plan and manage year-round greenhouse production, including seeding, transplanting, irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and harvesting.
• Monitor environmental conditions and adjust systems (e.g., temperature, humidity, lighting) to optimize plant health.
• Maintain greenhouse infrastructure, tools, and equipment in safe working conditions.
• Implement sustainable practices such as composting, organic pest management, and water conservation.

Community Engagement & Food Sovereignty

• Collaborate with Tribal Elders, youth programs, and cultural educators to integrate traditional knowledge into greenhouse operations.
• Support food distribution efforts to Tribal citizens, including coordination with food pantries, schools, and health programs.
• Host workshops, tours, and educational events focused on Indigenous agriculture, nutrition, and land stewardship.
• Participate in regional food sovereignty networks and initiatives.

Staff Supervision & Administration

• Supervise seasonal and full-time greenhouse staff, including hiring, training, and scheduling.
• Maintain records of plant growth, harvest yields, and distribution metrics.
• Manage greenhouse budget, supply procurement, and grant reporting.
• Ensure compliance with Tribal, state, and federal agricultural regulations.

Qualifications

Required

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, Environmental Science, or related field.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in greenhouse or nursery management.
• Familiarity with Indigenous food systems and cultural protocols.
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.

Preferred

• Experience working with Tribal communities or in Indigenous agriculture programs.
• Knowledge of hydroponic or aquaponic systems.
• CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain.

Working Conditions

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform physical tasks such as bending, standing, and carrying.
• Occasional evening or weekend work for community events.

IFAI has developed this draft position description to support Tribe’s food and agriculture goals by hiring additional food and agriculture employees. This document is strictly for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice nor create an attorney/client relationship.

Position Title: Tribal Outreach and Education Specialist

Reports To: [Insert Supervisor Title]
Location: [Insert Location or Remote]
Employment Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time/Contract]
Salary Range: [Insert Range]

Position Summary:

The Tribal Outreach and Education Specialist serves as a key liaison between the organization and Tribal Nations, communities, and stakeholders. This position is responsible for building and maintaining respectful, collaborative relationships with Tribal partners, facilitating culturally relevant education and training programs, and supporting policy initiatives that advance Tribal sovereignty, health, and environmental stewardship.

Key Responsibilities:

Outreach & Relationship Building

• Develop and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with Tribal governments, organizations, and community members.
• Coordinate and attend Tribal meetings, events, and consultations to represent the organization and gather input.
• Serve as a point of contact for Tribal inquiries and ensure timely, respectful communication.

Education & Training

• Design and deliver culturally appropriate educational materials, workshops, and training sessions.
• Collaborate with Tribal educators and knowledge keepers to co-create learning opportunities.
• Evaluate program effectiveness and adapt strategies based on feedback and outcomes.

Policy & Advocacy

• Support Tribal engagement in policy development and implementation processes.
• Monitor and analyze legislation and regulations affecting Tribal communities.
• Advocate for Tribal priorities in collaboration with internal and external partners.

Program Development & Reporting

• Assist in the development of outreach strategies and educational initiatives.
• Track program metrics and prepare reports for funders, leadership, and Tribal partners.
• Contribute to grant writing and resource development efforts.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Tribal Studies, Public Policy, Education, Environmental Science, or related fields.
• Demonstrated experience working with Tribal Nations and Indigenous communities.
• Strong understanding of Tribal sovereignty, history, and cultural protocols.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to travel regularly and work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Tribal affiliation or lived experience in Indigenous communities.
• Master’s degree in Tribal Studies, Public Policy, Education, Environmental Science, or related fields.
• Experience in curriculum development or adult education.
• Knowledge of federal Indian law and policy.

IFAI has developed this draft position description to support Tribe’s food and agriculture goals by hiring additional food and agriculture employees. This document is strictly for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice nor create an attorney/client relationship.

Position Title: Tribal Veterinarian

Reports To: [Insert Supervisor Title]
Location: [Insert Tribal Nation or Clinic Location]
Employment Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time/Contract]
Salary Range: [Insert Salary Information]

Position Summary:

The Tribal Veterinarian serves the community by providing compassionate and culturally sensitive veterinary care to animals within the Tribal nation. This role includes preventative health programs, emergency treatment, and public education on animal welfare, all while honoring traditional tribal values in animal stewardship.

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries in pets, livestock, and wildlife.
• Perform routine surgeries, vaccinations, and other veterinary procedures.
• Develop and implement community education programs on responsible pet ownership, zoonotic diseases, and animal health.
• Collaborate with Tribal leadership to integrate traditional knowledge into veterinary practices.
• Assist with livestock management and disease prevention strategies to support food security.
• Ensure compliance with Tribal, state, and federal animal health regulations.
• Respond to emergency situations, including natural disasters affecting animal populations.
• Maintain accurate records and work closely with tribal authorities on conservation efforts.

Qualifications:

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited institution.
• Valid veterinary license in [Insert State/Region].
• Experience in rural or tribal communities is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of livestock, companion animals, and wildlife health.
• Understanding the relationship between tribal traditions and animal welfare.
• Excellent communication skills and commitment to community outreach.

Additional Considerations:

• Ability to work in remote or underserved areas.
• Willingness to engage in traditional ecological knowledge learning opportunities.
• Dedication to culturally appropriate care and respect for Indigenous customs.

IFAI has developed this draft position description to support Tribe’s food and agriculture goals by hiring additional food and agriculture employees. This document is strictly for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice nor create an attorney/client relationship.

Position Title: Native Youth and Elder Engagement Coordinator

Reports To: [Insert Supervisor Title]
Location: [Insert Location or Remote]
Employment Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time/Contract]
Salary Range: [Insert Range]

Position Summary:

The Youth and Elder Engagement Coordinator is responsible for planning, implementing, and managing culturally relevant programs that serve both youth and elders within the tribal community. This role supports the well-being, cultural identity, and active participation of Tribal members across generations by coordinating distinct initiatives for each group.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and lead youth programs focused on cultural education, leadership development, wellness, and community service.
• Partner with schools, tribal youth councils, and community organizations to support youth engagement and educational success.
• Organize seasonal camps, workshops, and recreational activities that promote tribal values and traditions.
• Provide mentorship opportunities and support youth participation in tribal governance and decision-making processes.
• Design and implement elder-focused programs that promote social connection, cultural preservation, and wellness.
• Coordinate services such as elder luncheons, wellness checks, transportation assistance, and cultural activities.
• Support elder participation in tribal events, ceremonies, and advisory roles.
• Advocate for elder needs in tribal planning and policy development.

Administration and Collaborative Duties:

• Manage program budgets, track expenditures, and prepare reports for tribal leadership and funding agencies.
• Maintain accurate records of participation, feedback, and program outcomes.
• Assist with grant writing and reporting to sustain and expand youth and elder programming.
• Collaborate with other tribal departments to ensure holistic support for youth and elders.

Qualifications:

• Experience working with tribal communities, especially in youth or elder services.
• Strong understanding of Indigenous cultures, values, and community dynamics.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends for events.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, education, native studies, public health, or related fields.
• Tribal affiliation or lived experience in Indigenous communities.