New Mexico Tribal Liaison

The University of Oklahoma is seeking a New Mexico Tribal Liaison to manage relationships with Tribal partners in New Mexico, focusing on climate adaptation. Responsibilities include developing trainings, supporting adaptation activities, and collaborating with researchers. The position requires extensive travel within New Mexico and occasional travel to Norman, OK. A bachelor's degree and project management experience are required, along with strong organizational and communication skills.
Job Description

This position manages relationships between the South Central Climate Adaptation Science Center (CASC) and its Tribal partners in New Mexico. The liaison will be responsible for working closely with partners from a variety of Tribes, Pueblos, and inter-tribal organizations in New Mexico to develop and deliver trainings on climate adaptation and related topics, provide support to communities seeking or engaged in adaptation activities, and work to identify and reduce barriers to implementing Tribal adaptation activities. The liaison will primarily develop these tribal engagement efforts in New Mexico based on their own experience but with guidance from the South Central CASC Tribal Engagement Program team.

The liaison will lead research and education activities that are designed to increase knowledge of climate and its impacts, identify outside resources to help with specific projects, and promote opportunities for collaboration through research partnerships. The liaison will coordinate with our CASC Sustainability Scientist Manager and our CASC Climate Adaptation Planner on regional efforts working with Indigenous communities.

The liaison will work with the South Central CASC to identify ways that researchers and other professionals can design research, data products, and tools to better fit the needs of Tribal partners and will work to deliver these products for use in climate adaptation planning. Extensive travel in New Mexico to meet with partners is expected. Supervision of undergraduate student interns is possible.

The selected candidate will join an interdisciplinary team from various backgrounds, dedicated to supporting the use of climate information in adaptation planning. The Tribal Liaison will be an employee of the University of Oklahoma and based out of the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. At least quarterly travel to Norman, OK will be required to maintain a good connection with the South Central CASC Main Office.

Job Requirements

Required Education and Experience: Bachelor degree in Geography, Environmental Sustainability, Native American Studies, and/or Regional Planning, AND:
• 24 months of project management or related experience.

Skills:
• Experience conducting or collaborating on research projects.
• Able to complete projects with minimal supervision, and both serve and lead collegially as a team player.
• Advanced organization and communication skills
• Excellent computer skills
• Proficiency with computer applications, including PowerPoint, Word, and Excel (or Mac OSX equivalents)
• Ability to make independent decisions and judgment when following broad instructions
• Ability to plan, coordinate, and prioritize workload
• Advanced level of analytical, evaluative, and constructive thinking.

Certifications:
• Valid drivers license to travel to partnership meetings

Advertised Working Conditions:
• Standard Office Environment
• Sit for prolonged periods
• Communicate effectively and listen
• Use of a computer
• Manual dexterity

Departmental Preferences:
• Master's degree in Geography, Environmental Sustainability, Native American Studies, and/or Regional Planning
• Additional education or experience, especially as related to vulnerability assessment, climate adaptation planning,
• training or education, small-group facilitation, or climate science.
• Demonstrated cultural competence and ethics working with Indigenous peoples and communities
• Demonstrated understanding of sovereignty, Tribal governance, traditional knowledge, different cultures, and place-based or culturally based decision making

Supervision: No Supervisory Duties

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy. To view the policy, visit

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.

The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.

Hiring contingent upon a Background Check?:YesSpecial Indications:None

Job Posting:Jun 28, 2024