FOR ENROLLED COWLITZ TRIBAL MEMBERS ONLY
This position is open to enrolled Cowlitz Tribal Members ONLY. When applying, please provide proof of enrollment.
POSITION TITLE: Enrollment Officer
DEPARTMENT: Enrollment
LOCATION: Longview, WA (ON-SITE)
REPORTS TO: Assistant Tribal Manager
FLSA STATUS: Exempt, fulltime
SALARY RANGE: $105,664.00-$126,776.00 per year
Open until filled - first review June 2, 2025
This position is open to enrolled Cowlitz Tribal Members ONLY. When applying, please provide proof of enrollment.
Position Summary:
The Enrollment Officer plans, manages, and evaluates the delivery of enrollment services for the Cowlitz Indian Tribe (CIT). This incumbent holds primary responsibility for overseeing the daily operations of the Enrollment Department to ensure services are provided in accordance with Tribal laws, regulations, policies, and procedures. The Enrollment Officer executes CITs enrollment policies in alignment with the Tribal strategic plan and supervises department staff to support the needs of Tribal members. The Enrollment Officer maintains professionalism in all interactions with internal and external customers, and honors and represents the mission, vision, and values of CIT.
This list of duties and responsibilities is illustrative only of the tasks performed by this position and is not all-inclusive.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
* Develops and implements a strategic plan to ensure the Enrollment Department has the capacity to deliver timely, effective, and culturally appropriate services to members of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe.
* Directs the establishment, implementation, and communication of department goals, objectives, policies, and procedures in alignment with the Tribal strategic plan and in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, ordinances, and governing authorities. Ensures all enrollment procedures are carried out in accordance with Tribal laws, policies, and internal controls.
* Builds and supports a high-performing team by recruiting, onboarding, training, supervising, and developing staff in alignment with organizational goals and values.
* Leads regular team meetings to promote collaboration, ensure clear communication, and provide updates on Enrollment activities and priorities.
* Contributes to departmental effectiveness by identifying short-term and long-range goals, analyzing program needs, providing insight and recommendations, and implementing leadership directives.
* Manages the departments financial resources by overseeing the budgeting process, monitoring expenditures, and aligning spending with strategic priorities.
* Secures additional funding and grant support for program growth and development; refers applicable funding opportunities to other departments and programs within the Tribe.
* Prepares and presents reports on department performance, current initiatives, and future planning to senior leadership, Tribal Council, and other relevant stakeholders.
* Oversees the review and verification process for enrollment eligibility and lineage, ensuring compliance with tribal law and accuracy in all determinations.
* Serves as the official custodian of all enrollment and membership files of the Tribe, ensuring accurate maintenance and security of all records.
* Provides comprehensive oversight of all enrollment-related programs and services, including but not limited to funeral benefits, Tribal identification issuance, member benefits distribution (such as GWE, LIHEAP, STOWW, food vouchers, Discover Passes, and NW Forest Passes), hunting and fishing license issuance, the Enhanced Tribal Card (ETC) Program, member record maintenance, procurement activities, and any additional programs assigned by Tribal Leadership. Oversees the operations, compliance, and quality standards of each program.
* Receive training and certification for the ETC program, interview members, and issue cards in accordance with the Department of Homeland Security requirements.
* Submits new member enrollment applications to the Enrollment Committee for review and forwards approved applications to the Tribal Council for final approval.
* Maintains strong and effective working relationships with Tribal members, colleagues, administrators, state and federal agencies, educational institutions, and the general public.
* Ensures the confidentiality, security, and integrity of all sensitive enrollment data and records, in accordance with applicable laws and Tribal policy.
* Identifies and implements technology solutions to streamline operations, improve data management, and enhance member access to services.
* Collaborates with other departments to ensure Enrollment services are integrated into the broader functions of Tribal government.
* Works closely with Member Services to coordinate outreach efforts and support the management of shared programs and services.
* Supervises the development and distribution of Enrollment Department communications, including official correspondence, digital and print materials, and updates to Tribal members.
* Coordinates with IT and Communications to ensure timely updates to the Cowlitz Tribes website and publications related to enrollment services and data.
* Provides leadership support for Tribal meetings and events, including General Council, in collaboration with program staff and other departments.
* Ensures compliance with grant and contract requirements tied to Enrollment Department programs; monitors deliverables and reporting obligations in coordination with program staff.
* Prepares for internal and external audits by maintaining accurate documentation and compliance with relevant standards.
* Promotes cultural sensitivity and ensures Enrollment services honor the values and traditions of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe.
* Performs other related duties as assigned to support the mission and operations of the Enrollment Department.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
* Knowledge of Cowlitz Indian Tribe governance, culture, customs, and traditions.
* Knowledge of Tribal enrollment processes, eligibility criteria, and supporting documentation (e.g., lineage verification, ancestry charts).
* Knowledge of applicable Tribal, federal, and state regulations regarding enrollment, member services, and confidentiality.
* Knowledge of program administration, service delivery models, and process improvement strategies.
* Knowledge of grant and contract management practices, including reporting and compliance.
* Knowledge of budget preparation, financial management, and procurement processes.
* Knowledge of data management systems and information security best practices.
* Skill in leading high-performing teams, coaching, mentoring, and managing staff performance.
* Skill in strategic planning, project management, and organizational development.
* Skill in analyzing problems, projecting consequences, identifying solutions, and implementing recommendations.
* Skill in preparing, reviewing, and analyzing reports and program performance metrics.
* Skill in working collaboratively across departments and with external partners.
* Ability to manage and evaluate multiple programs and initiatives simultaneously.
* Ability to build relationships with Tribal members and community stakeholders in a respectful, culturally sensitive manner.
* Ability to interpret, communicate, and apply policies, regulations, and laws effectively.
* Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with integrity.
* Ability to operate a variety of software programs, including Microsoft Office, database systems (e.g., Ritetrack, Progeny), and project management tools.
* Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.
* Ability to work independently and make sound decisions aligned with Tribal priorities.
Minimum Qualifications:
* An enrolled member of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe.
* Bachelors Degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Tribal Governance, or a closely related field.
* Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in public, nonprofit, or Tribal administration, with a focus on program management or service delivery.
* Five (5) years of supervisory experience, including team leadership and performance management.
* Ability to be backgrounded by the FBI for the administration of the Enhanced Tribal Card program through the Department of Homeland Security.
* Demonstrated experience working with or in Tribal governments or organizations.
* A combination of relevant education and related work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
* Experience managing Tribal enrollment or membership services programs.
* Valid drivers license is required when driving vehicles for work-related purposes.
* Must be able to successfully pass a background screening/investigation.
Preferred Qualifications:
* Masters Degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Tribal Governance, or a related field.
* Experience with grant reporting and contract compliance.
* Familiarity with Cowlitz Indian Tribe governmental structure and services.
* Proficiency in data analysis and reporting for service delivery improvement.
* Experience with Tribal database systems such as Ritetrack or Progeny.
Tribal preference in accordance with Cowlitz Indian Tribe Code and CIT Employee Policies and Procedures Handbook shall apply to all positions. All positions are required to adhere to CITs established safety policies regarding vaccine requirements and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Background Investigation Requirements:
* Pre-employment drug screen.
* Reference checks, education and employment verification.
* Federal, state, and/or tribal criminal history and sanction checks including fingerprint verification.
Physical Demands:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly is required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and communicate effectively. The employee occasionally is required to stand; walk; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to lift up to 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and clarity of vision at long distance.
Work Environment:
Work is generally performed in an office setting with a moderate noise level. Evening and/or weekend work may be required. Tight time constraints and multiple demands are common.