IAC Technical Assistance Specialist
Open Date:
2023-05-24
Close Date:
2023-07-08
Organization:
Intertribal Agriculture Council
Location:
Southeast Region
Skills And Qualifications:
REQUIREMENTS
It is desired that the applicant have one year of experience in each of the following:
Demonstrate knowledge and proficiency of the history, culture, and traditions of American Indian Tribes and exhibit and promote cultural awareness and sensitivity to unique Tribal customs.
Working knowledge of USDA programs, services, and the application procedures related to use on Indian Lands.
Working knowledge of financial assistance programs and work experience with clients to leverage external funding sources to address resource concerns.
Working knowledge of Tribal and BIA operations, procedures, and policy impact on participation in USDA programs.
Ability to develop and maintain strong working relationships both internally and externally, including media contacts and vendors; ability to establish timelines and meet deadlines; strong detail orientation; high standards for quality work; personable demeanor/excellent customer service orientation.
Ability to handle multiple projects concurrently.
Outstanding organizational skills.
Ability to communicate effectively and persuasively orally and in writing with diverse interest groups, agriculture producers, and Tribal dignitaries.
Computer proficiency: word processing, spreadsheet, PowerPoint, and database management.
Education/Demonstrated Experience - Soil Conservation, related agricultural or natural resource disciplines such as agronomy, soil science, forestry, agricultural education, agricultural engineering preferred.
Duties And Responsibilities:
Reporting to the respective Interregional Manager, IAC Technical Assistance (TA) Specialists provide direct assistance with USDA program access to Tribal producers, Tribal entities, and Tribal governments - outreach, eligibility, and program application support. Other forms of assistance provided include agriculture and natural resource management planning, project development support, partnership leveraging, government-to-government relations, planning, and supplemental resources identification. TA Specialists have a background in agriculture, Tribal food systems, natural resources management, community development, education, outreach, Tribal relations, and/or other applicable areas. The position is well suited for self-starters who excel independently and as part of a team and are willing to travel extensively at times. IAC expects TA Specialists to meet producers and Tribal clients face to face, whenever possible, and to function well within a remote work environment.
DUTIES
Producer/Tribal Engagement:
Increase access and use of USDA programs and services by Indian producers and Tribes within the region through targeted outreach and individualized assistance.
Maintain ongoing technical assistance presence across all applicable programs and services available through USDA through direct coordination with appropriate agencies.
Act as an additional point of contact between producers/Tribes and USDA agencies.
Develop a regional outreach strategy that includes tailored initiatives designed to address regional issues and meet success markers.
Work closely with other national and regional American Indian/Alaska Native organizations to support technical assistance and resource identification for Tribal producers and Tribes.
Contribute to the development of instructional materials that will support USDA outreach and program access.
Ensure that services and technical assistance are provided to address natural resource concerns on Tribal lands.
Advocate for practices that are culturally sensitive and technically sound.
Partnership Engagement:
Develop regional outreach and technical partnerships that positively contribute to TA program delivery.
Establish contacts and strategic partnerships with Indian Health Services, BIA (as necessary), 1994 Tribal Colleges, First American Land Grant College Organization & Network (FALCON) professionals, and related education and extension providers within the region.
Provide leadership and direction for regional partnership-based initiatives, including special funding initiatives.
Coordinate regional initiatives with key partners to match resources and complement mission-aligned goals involving Tribal agriculture, food systems, and natural resources management objectives.
Organizational Engagement:
Maintain strict adherence to accountability and reporting measures through IAC’s database systems.
Keeps the Inter region advised of significant problems, opportunities, trends, and developments that affect the membership nationally and/or in the region.
Develops and recommends prevention and/or remedial actions as necessary to overcome such issues and to capitalize on opportunities.
Contributes to organizational initiatives that involve other IAC programs and collaborates with members of various teams.
Engage and support the evolving youth programs of IAC to ensure adequate program development and delivery across the region.
Salary And Benefits:
$54,077 - $60,864
Contact Info:
Please apply online