VACANCY ANN. #: STOI-25-105

TITLE:                       LEAD TEACHER II (Special Needs)

DEPARTMENT:      PSELC

LOCATION:              WELLPINIT, WA

STATUS:                  REGULAR, FULL-TIME

SALARY LEVEL:    $20.89 – $32.89 / PER HOUR

OPENING DATE:    NOVEMBER 12, 2025

CLOSING DATE:    DECEMBER 1, 2025

 

SUMMARY:
The Spokane Tribe of Indians 477 Program promotes and supports Tribal children and their families reaching their full potential of becoming healthy, productive, and self-sufficient.  This is done in a way that protects and benefits the Tribal children, respects and preserves their culture, values, and traditions, gives families access as well as input into the full range of programs and services to promote their self-esteem, independence, self-sufficiency, and educational experiences.

 

The Pauline Stearns Early Learning Center provides a safe and developmentally appropriate environment that is culturally relevant to children and families who reside, work, or attend school on the Spokane Indian Reservation.  The primary emphasis of the program is to provide Early Childhood learning in an educational setting.  The Early Learning Center promotes competence in our children, parent alliances, community collaboration and proficiency in our staff.

• Any and all active investigations resulting in removal of any minor child under custody/guardianship of employee will result in immediate suspension.  Following completion of active investigation, any findings of child abuse or neglect will result in immediate termination of employment.
• Any and all active investigations in regard to child abuse or neglect while on the job will result in immediate suspension of employment for the duration of investigation.  Upon conclusion of the active investigation, all findings will determine whether employment status will be terminated.
• Employee is required to disclose any active investigations of crimes listed on the Secretary’s List of Crimes and Negative Actions (WAC 110-06-0120) during the interview/hiring process and throughout term of employment. 

 

 

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Primarily assists in 1:1 engagement.

• Assists in oversight of classroom management and classroom environment.

• Assists in enforcing rules for classroom and behavior management, and procedures for maintaining order in the classroom.

• Organize and lead activities designed for 1:1 to promote physical, mental, and social development.

• Teach basic skills to children.

• Observe and evaluate the child’s performance, behavior, social development, and physical health.

• Read books to the entire class or to small groups.

• Attend to basic needs by feeding, dressing, toileting, etc.

• Provide a variety of materials and resources to explore, manipulate, and use, both in learning activities and in imaginative play.

• Assimilate children into the school environment by greeting them, helping them remove outerwear, and selecting activities of interest to them.

• Serve meals and snacks in accordance with nutritional guidelines.

• Teach proper eating habits and personal hygiene.

• Prepare materials and classrooms for class activities.

• Enforce all administration policies and rules governing students.
• Maintain all requirements as outlined in the Chapter 110-300 Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Foundational Quality Standards for Early Learning Programs and all additional regulations expressly incorporated therein.

• Identify children showing signs of emotional, developmental, or health-related problems and discuss them with supervisors, parents or guardians, and child development specialists.

• Establish clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects and communicate those objectives to children.

• Meet with parents and guardians to discuss individual child goals, determine their priorities for their children, and suggest ways that they can promote learning and development.
• Assist with implementation of any IFSP or IEP.
• Support families in obtaining necessary screenings in order to ensures students receive all the support necessary to maintain steady growth towards normal productive

• Adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students’ varying needs and interests.

• Plan and conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provides students with opportunities to observe, question, and investigate.

• Arrange indoor and outdoor space to facilitate creative play, motor-skill activities, and safety.

• Maintain accurate and complete student records as required by laws, policies, and regulations.

• Demonstrate activities to children.

• Meet with other professionals to discuss individual students’ needs and progress.

• Confer with other staff members to plan and schedule lessons promoting learning, following approved curricula.

• Organize and label materials and display students’ work in a manner appropriate for their ages and perceptual skills.

• Attend professional meetings, educational conferences, and teacher training workshops to maintain and improve professional competence.

• Prepare reports on students and activities as required by administration.

• Attend staff meetings and serve on committees as required.
• Assist in preparing food for children and serving meals and refreshments to children as required by the Foundational Quality Standards for Early Learning and/or the Child and Adult Care Food Program requirements.

• Select, store, order, issue, and inventory classroom equipment, materials, and supplies.

• Administer screenings to help determine the child’s developmental levels, needs, and potential.

• Assist in meeting all Federal, State, and Tribal regulations and policies with regards to 477 and Childcare Programs.

• Supervise, evaluate, and plan assignments for teacher assistants.
• And any other duties necessary to help drive our Vision, fulfill our Mission, and abide by our Values.

This position on occasion may have limited supervisory control over Teacher Assistants and Substitute Teachers.

 

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

 

MAJOR KNOWLEDGE-

• Client and Personal Service – Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services.  This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

• Education and Training – Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

• Psychology – Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.

• Public Safety and Security – Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures and strategies—to promote overall safety for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
• Licensing Standards – Working knowledge of Minimum Licensing Requirements (WACs) and Early Achievers Standard Operating Procedures.  Must have the ability to keep current with annual updates and modifications

MAJOR SKILLS-

• Speaking – Talking to others to convey information.

• Learning Strategies – Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.

• Instructing – Teaching others how to do something.

• Active Listening – Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, and asking appropriate questions at suitable times.

• Coordination – Adjusting actions in relation to others’ actions.

• Social Perceptiveness – Being aware of others’ reactions and understanding why they react as they do.

• Critical Thinking – Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

• Monitoring – Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective actions.

• Reading Comprehension – Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

• Service Orientation – Actively looking for ways to help people.

• Active Learning – Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

• Judgment and Decision Making – Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

• Time Management – Managing one’s own time and the time of others.

• Writing – Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

• Complex Problem Solving – Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

• Persuasion – Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.

 

MAJOR ABILITIES-

• Oral Expression – The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.

• Oral Comprehension – The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

• Problem Sensitivity – The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.  It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.

• Speech Clarity – The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.

• Originality – The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.

• Speech Recognition – The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.

• Information Ordering – The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules.

• Deductive Reasoning – The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.

• Fluency of Ideas – The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic.

• Written Comprehension – The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

• Inductive Reasoning – The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions.

• Near Vision – The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer)

• Written Expression – The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.

• Category Flexibility – The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.

• Time Sharing – The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information.

• Far Vision – The ability to see details at a distance.

• Selective Attention – The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.

• Flexibility of Closure – The ability to identify or detect a known pattern that is hidden in other distracting material.
• Speed of Closure – The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be 21 years of age or older and must have a High School Diploma or GED.
• AA Degree in ECE, Special Education or approved related field required or willingness to obtain within four years of hire date.  Must make progress towards meeting this requirement as soon as hired. A signed educational agreement will be required.
• One year (1) experience working with children 6 weeks – 6 years with developmental delays, or other neurodivergent diagnosis, is required (or a combination of work and education pertaining to Special Needs & Early Childhood Education).
• Ability and willingness to maintain absolute confidentiality of sensitive information for both external and internal systems.
• Previous experience working with Native American clientele and understanding of their cultural needs.
• Successful clearance of Criminal History and Background inquiry—Tribal, State and Federal.
• Any instances of PBC suspension will result in immediate suspension pending investigation.  Findings may result in termination.
• Successful clearance of National Child Abuse Registry and Neglect Data System. AND maintain clearance at all times.  Additional checks will be utilized to determine retention.

• Successful clearance of National and State Sex Offender Registry; AND maintain clearance at all times. Additional checks will be utilized to determine retention.

• Current and up-to-date immunizations, including a current negative TB skin test, annual influenza vaccine, TDaP, Hepatitis B Vaccination— required within one month of hire date.
• Ability to pass a bi-annual health examination to ensure the ability to safely perform job duties.
• Ability to lift and maneuver small children on an ongoing basis and the necessary physical dexterity to work with small children 30-75 lbs. on average (bending, stooping, kneeling, crawling, lifting, etc.).
• Employee must be willing to travel to all required trainings pertinent to the position annually.

CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

• Initial Basic STARS 30-Hour Training required within two weeks of start date, and ability to complete 20 hours as required on an annual basis.
• Ability to obtain the following certificates and licenses during the first week of employment or prior to if possible:
  • Blood Borne Pathogens
  • Food Handlers Certification
  • First Aid and CPR Certification Adult, Infant, and Child
• Any other requirements necessary to meet Spokane Tribe of Indians licensing standards; if not met upon hire, within first three months of hire date.

Employee will be required to maintain all certifications and keep them current.

 

MUST APPLY ON-LINE: https://spokanetribe.bamboohr.com/careers/482?source=aWQ9MTg%3D

 

 

*Indian Preference Applies – Indian Preference grants preference to any enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe.

*FBI Background – Positions involving regular contact with, or control over, Indian Children in accordance with the Federal Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act, Public Law 101-630

 

Confirmation receipt of on-line submission and interview status will be sent to the applicants e-mail address used when applying. Applicants are responsible to regularly monitor their e-mails.

 

Contact: Empero Corral HR Generalist, or Kammi Rosenbaum

509-458-6576 or 458-6527

E-mail: hrfrontdesk@spokanetribe.com

Applications must be received in the Human Resource Department no later than 4:30 p.m. on the closing date.

The Spokane Tribe reserves the right to hire according to its Indian Preference Policy

All Applicants are subject to a Pre-Employment Drug Test

All Positions with the Spokane tribe of Indians are subject to a 90-day orientation period

 

TITLE:                       TEACHER ASSITANT

DEPARTMENT:      PSELC

LOCATION:              WELLPINIT, WA

STATUS:                  REGULAR, FULL-TIME

SALARY LEVEL:    $17.13 – $21.77 / PER HOUR

OPENING DATE:    NOVEMBER 12, 2025

CLOSING DATE:    DECEMBER 1, 2025

 

SUMMARY:
The Spokane Tribe of Indians 477 Program promotes and supports Tribal children and their families reaching their full potential of becoming healthy, productive, and self-sufficient.  This is done in a way that protects and benefits the Tribal children, respects, and preserves their culture, values traditions, gives families access as well as input into the full range of programs and services to promote their self-esteem, independence, self-sufficiency, and their educational experiences.

The Pauline Stearns Early Learning Center provides a safe and developmentally appropriate environment that is culturally relevant to children and families which reside, work, or attend school on the Spokane Indian Reservation.  The primary emphasis of the program is to provide Early Childhood learning in an educational setting.  The Early Learning Center promotes competence in our children, parent alliances, community collaboration and proficiency in our staff.

• Any and all active investigations resulting in removal of any minor child under custody/guardianship of employee will result in immediate suspension. Following completion of active investigation, any findings of child abuse or neglect will result in immediate termination of employment.
• Any and all active investigations in regard to child abuse or neglect while on the job will result in immediate suspension of employment for the duration of investigation. Upon conclusion of the active investigation, all findings will determine whether employment status will be terminated.
• Employee is required to disclose any active investigations of crimes listed on the Secretary’s List of Crimes and Negative Actions (WAC 110-06-0120) during the interview/hiring process and throughout term of employment.

 

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist classroom staff in planning, prepping, and implementing activities in accordance with developmentally appropriate practice and program philosophy.
• Work with classroom staff to ensure a variety of materials, resources, and activities for children to explore, manipulate and use; both in learning activities and imaginative play which develop questioning, probing, and problem solving appropriate to developmental levels and learning styles of the children are utilized.
• Assist in language development by communicating thoughtfully throughout the day and in a variety of activities with children.
• Assist classroom staff in meeting the unique individualized needs of each child.
• Assist in all classrooms, including infant, toddler, preschool, and school-age.
• Assist in maintaining all learning space to ensure it is an enjoyable environment that encourages exploration and learning.
• Assist in providing a safe environment to prevent and reduce injuries of the children; observe and monitor children’s play activities.
• Assist in assimilating children into the school environment by greeting them, helping them remove outerwear, and selecting activities of interest to them.
• Promote an environment that contributes to good health and prevention of illness; instruct children in health and personal habits, such as eating, resting, and toilet habits.
• Attend to children’s basic needs by feeding them, dressing them, and changing their diapers.
• Support children’s emotional and social development, encouraging understanding of others and positive self-concepts.
• Support lead staff in utilizing positive discipline tactics with all children and recommend or initiate other measures to control behavior in accordance with program policy and individualized care plans as determined by classroom teaching teams.
• Maintain all requirements as outlined in the Chapter 110-300 Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Foundational Quality Standards for Early Learning Programs and all additional regulations expressly incorporated therein.
• Actively participate in ALL quality improvement endeavors, including but not limited to meeting Washington State Early Achievers Minimum Operating Guidelines.
• Observe and monitor children’s play activities.
• Read to children and teach them simple painting, drawing, handicrafts, and songs.

• Provide the children opportunities to understand and acquire communication skills through their thoughts and feelings.
• Positively interact with the children assisting them in selecting or participating in developmentally appropriate activities.
• Maintain an open, friendly, and informative relationship with children and families; and encourage their participation in the program.
• Engage the children in appropriate language development through conversation and vocalization.
• Assist in supporting the children’s positive self-image through appropriate conversations and positive guidance techniques including negotiating skills; utilizing positive guidance techniques and recommending or initiating other measures to control behavior in accordance with program policies.
• Optimize all children’s learning opportunities through play.
• Teach proper eating habits and personal hygiene.
• Assist in preparation of materials and classrooms for class activities.
• Perform as a team member to assure that productivity outcome measures are achieved.
• Maintain a friendly and constructive atmosphere regarding relationships with all co-workers and clientele.
• Attend monthly staff meetings and designated training programs.

• Assist in preparing food for children and serving meals and refreshments to children as required by the Foundational Quality Standards for Early Learning and/or the Child and Adult Care Food Program requirements.
• Assist in organizing, cleaning, and storing toys and materials to ensure order in activity areas.
• Assist in maintaining classroom upkeep and sanitization on a regular basis.

• Collaborate with lead staff members in providing education to the children including working with parents.
• Support children’s learning by assisting lead teachers in planning and implementing learning opportunities based on child interest.
• Assist in meeting all Federal, State, and Tribal regulations and policies with regards to 477 and Childcare Programs.
• And any other duties necessary to help drive our Vision, fulfill our Mission, and abide by our Values.

This position has no supervisory control.

 

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of American Indian culture, traditions, and language.
• Knowledge of working with low-income children and families.
• Knowledge of public assistance laws, rules, regulations, service programs and childcare programs preferred.
• Knowledge of human behavior and performance, individual differences in ability, personality, and interests, learning and motivation.
• Knowledge of early childhood developmental stages and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Skills in observation and data collection.
• Skill in effective verbal and written communication.
• Ability to maintain positive communication among parents, co-workers, Tribal staff, public and private agencies in serving the customers.
• Ability to handle conflict, complaints, and disputes.
• Ability to practice tact, courtesy, and discretion.
• Ability to work under stressful conditions.
• Ability to maintain dependable and punctual shiftwork in order to sustain a well-structured environment for the children served by the ELC.
• Ability to work flexible hours, shifts and rotate between various classrooms and kitchen as needed.
• Ability and willingness to maintain absolute confidentiality of sensitive information for both external and internal systems.
• Establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order.
• Prepare, organize, and lead activities designed to promote physical, mental, and social development.
• Teach basic skills to children.
• Observe and evaluate children’s performance, behavior, social development, and physical health.
• Read books to the entire class or small groups of children.
• Attend to children’s basic needs by feeding them, dressing them, etc.
• Provide a variety of materials and resources for children to explore, manipulate, and use, both in learning activities and imaginative play.
• Assimilate arriving children to the school environment by greeting them, helping them remove outerwear, and selecting activities of interest to them.
• Serve meals and snacks in accordance with nutritional guidelines and program regulations.
• Teach proper eating habits and personal hygiene.
• Enforce all administration policies and rules governing students and the program.
• Identify children showing signs of emotional, developmental, or health related problems and discuss them with supervisors, parents or guardians, and child development specialists.
• Establish clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects and communicate those objectives to children.
• Meet with parents and guardians to discuss their children’s progress and needs, determine their priorities for their children, and suggest ways that they can promote learning and development.
• Adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students’ varying needs and interests.
• Plan and conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provides students with opportunities to observe, question, and investigate.
• Arrange indoor and outdoor space to facilitate creative play, motor-skill activities, and safety.
• Maintain accurate and complete student records as required by laws, policies, and administrative regulations.
• Demonstrate activities to children.
• Meet with other professionals to discuss individual students’ needs and progress.
• Confer with other staff members to plan and schedule lessons promoting learning, following approved curricula.
• Organize and label materials and display students’ work in a manner appropriate for their ages and perceptual skills.
• Attend professional meetings, educational conferences, and teacher training workshops to maintain and improve professional competence.
• Prepare reports on students and activities as required by administration.
• Collaborate with other teachers and administrators in the development, evaluation, and revision of preschool programs.
• Plan and supervise class projects, field trips, visits by guests, or other experiential activities and guide students in learning from those activities.
• Attend staff meetings and serve on committees as required.
• Select, store, order, issue, and inventory classroom equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Provide disabled students with assistive devices, supportive technology, and assistance accessing facilities.
• Administer screenings, evaluations, or other instruments to help determine children’s developmental levels, needs, and potential.
• Prepare and implement individualized programs for students requiring extra help.
• Perform administrative duties, such as bus monitoring, bus driving, and bus loading and unloading.
• Supervise, evaluate, and plan assignments for use during small, and large group activities with children.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be 18 years of age or older and have a high school diploma or GED.
• Previous experience working with Native American clientele and understanding of their cultural needs is preferred.
• Successful clearance of Criminal History and Background inquiry—Tribal, State and Federal.
• Any instances of PBC suspension will result in immediate suspension pending investigation.  Findings may result in termination
• Successful clearance of National and State Sex Offender Registry; AND maintain clearance at all times.  Additional checks will be utilized to determine retention.
• Successful clearance of National Child Abuse Registry and Neglect Data System; AND maintain clearance at all times.  Additional checks will be utilized to determine retention.
• Previous experience working with children 6 weeks – 6 years in a professional setting is preferred.
• Current and up-to-date immunizations including a current negative TB skin test, annual influenza vaccine, TDap in lieu of Tetanus vaccine, Hepatitis B Vaccination—preferred and required within one month of hire date.
• Ability and willingness to maintain absolute confidentiality of sensitive information for both external and internal systems
• Ability to lift and maneuver small children on an ongoing basis and the necessary physical dexterity to work with small children 30-50 lbs. on average (bending, stooping, kneeling, crawling, lifting, etc.).
• Ability to pass a bi-annual health examination to ensure the ability to safely perform job duties.

 

 

CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

• • Washington State Short State ECED Certificate of Specialization or equivalent OR willingness to obtain within two years of hire date is required. A signed educational agreement will be required.
  • Initial Basic STARS 30-Hour Training required within two weeks of start date, and ability to complete 20 hours annually with 50% in program management and administration.
  • Ability to obtain the following certificates and licenses during the first week of employment or prior to if possible:
    • Blood Borne Pathogens
    • Food Handlers Certification
    • First Aid and CPR Certification Adult, Infant, and Child
  • Any other requirements necessary to meet Spokane Tribe of Indians licensing standards; if not met upon hire, within first three months of hire date.

  Employee will be required to maintain all certifications and keep them current.

MUST APPLY ON-LINE: https://spokanetribe.bamboohr.com/careers/480?source=aWQ9MTg%3D

 

 

*Indian Preference Applies – Indian Preference grants preference to any enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe.

*FBI Background – Positions involving regular contact with, or control over, Indian Children in accordance with the Federal Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act, Public Law 101-630

 

Confirmation receipt of on-line submission and interview status will be sent to the applicants e-mail address used when applying. Applicants are responsible to regularly monitor their e-mails.

 

Contact: Empero Corral HR Generalist, or Kammi Rosenbaum

509-458-6576 or 458-6527

E-mail: hrfrontdesk@spokanetribe.com

Applications must be received in the Human Resource Department no later than 4:30 p.m. on the closing date.

The Spokane Tribe reserves the right to hire according to its Indian Preference Policy

All Applicants are subject to a Pre-Employment Drug Test

All Positions with the Spokane tribe of Indians are subject to a 90-day orientation period

VACANCY ANN #:  STOI-25-100

TITLE:                       TEACHER ASSISTANT

DEPARTMENT:      HEAD START

LOCATION:              WELLPINIT, WA

STATUS:                  REGULAR, FULL-TIME

SALARY LEVEL:    $20.22 / PER HOUR

OPENING DATE:    NOVEMBER 4, 2025

CLOSING DATE:    NOVEMBER 12, 2025

 

SUMMARY:
The Spokane Tribe of Indians Head Start Program is designed to promote the school readiness of low-income children by enhancing their cognitive, social and emotional development—in a learning environment that supports children’s growth in language, literacy, mathematics, science, social and emotional functioning, creative arts, physical skills, and approaches to learning; and through the provision to low-income children and their families of health, educational, nutritional, social, and other services that are determined, based on family needs assessments, to be necessary.

The Head Start Teacher Assistant reports to the Director and receives direction from the Lead Classroom Teacher.  The Teacher Assistant is responsible for assisting the Head Start Lead Teacher in the daily operation of the classroom and program while contributing to the classroom team in a positive and productive manner with reliability, patience, and consistency.

 

KNOWLEDGE and SKILLS REQUIRED FOR POSITION:

• Ability to work cooperatively as part of the Head Start team to provide comprehensive and professional services in the best interest of children and families and the Head Start community.
• Willingness to participate in the process to document, report and record daily observations as required by the Head Start Child Outcomes Framework and Head Start Performance Standards.
• Positive Attitude, patience, friendliness and professional appearance.
• Active contribution to the classroom with resourcefulness, organization, effective time management and cooperation.
• Model appropriate behaviors and responses to challenging situations.
• Assist in planning, coordinating and implementing the Education Plan.
• Proven ability to provide effective and nurturing teacher-child interactions
• Perform job duties with the highest level of confidentiality, ensuring safety of all children, family and staff records and information in accordance with Tribal Policy.
• Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing a curriculum that promotes children’s cognitive development and language skills, social and emotional development and physical development.
• Help children learn to get along with others and encourage feelings of empathy and mutual respect among children and adults.
• Willingness to attend to the basic needs of the children—to include hygiene, diapering, and feeding
• Encourage parental involvement in the education program in the classroom and at home.
• Maintain sanitation and safety practices throughout the program that ensure a safe environment.
• Assist other staff in the coordination of transition services and other activities.
• Demonstrate ability to relate well to and coordinate with the population served, especially low-income Spokane Indian Reservation population.
• Assist in supporting Head Start Teaching staff concerning issues of classroom environments, behavior management and inclusion of children with special needs.  This includes, but is not limited to providing one on one attention, written reports, record keeping and tracking of data.
• Comply with applicable laws, policies and procedures (State, Federal and Tribal).
• Report cases of child abuse and neglect by serving as a mandated reporter.
• Contribute to the effort of recruiting and enrolling children and families into Head Start.
• Take pride in the appearance of the Head Start facility and help to maintain the necessary daily upkeep—to include, assisting with the daily sanitizing/cleaning of the Head Start building

 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or a state-awarded certificate that meets or exceeds the requirements for a CDA credential, are enrolled in a program that will lead to an associate or baccalaureate degree or, are willing to enroll in a CDA credential program to be completed within two years of the time of hire.
• Successful clearance of Criminal History and Background inquiry with no findings of child abuse and neglect.
• Able to adhere to a strict confidentiality policy.
• Must be physically present to work a regular, reliable and predictable work schedule in accordance with program demands and maintain a consistent and regular attendance record.
• Must contribute to the Head Start team in a positive and productive manner with reliability, patience and consistency

• Ability to lift and maneuver small children on an ongoing basis and the necessary physical dexterity to work with small children 30-50 lbs on average (bending, stooping, kneeling, crawling, lifting, etc.)

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Possess a basic understanding of the scope of the Head Start effort—to include familiarity with Head Start Performance Standards.
• Understanding of Early childhood Developmental Stages and appropriate preschool practices
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to relate well to, and coordinate with the population served, especially low-income Spokane Indian Reservation population.
• Possess skills adequate to serve children with disabilities.
• Maintain a high degree of professionalism in the workplace, including appearance, communication, attendance, reliability and teamwork.
• Work well with others.
• Ability to demonstrate kindness, patience and understanding even in stressful situations.

 

MUST APPLY ON-LINE: https://spokanetribe.bamboohr.com/careers/478?source=aWQ9MTg%3D

 

 

*Indian Preference Applies – Indian Preference grants preference to any enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe.

*FBI Background – Positions involving regular contact with, or control over, Indian Children in accordance with the Federal Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act, Public Law 101-630

 

Confirmation receipt of on-line submission and interview status will be sent to the applicants e-mail address used when applying. Applicants are responsible to regularly monitor their e-mails.

 

Contact: Empero Corral HR Generalist, or Kammi Rosenbaum

509-458-6576 or 458-6527

E-mail: hrfrontdesk@spokanetribe.com

Applications must be received in the Human Resource Department no later than 4:30 p.m. on the closing date.

The Spokane Tribe reserves the right to hire according to its Indian Preference Policy

All Applicants are subject to a Pre-Employment Drug Test

All Positions with the Spokane tribe of Indians are subject to a 90-day orientation period

 

VACANCY ANN#:    STOI- 25-086

TITLE:                         INDIAN CHILD WELFARE SOCIAL WORKER

DEPARTMENT:       HHS

LOCATION:               WELLPINIT, WA

STATUS:                     FULL-TIME

RATE OF PAY:          $27 PER HOUR

OPENING DATE:     OCTOBER 31, 2025

CLOSING DATE:      OPEN UNTIL FILLED

 

INTRODUCTION:

The ICW Social Worker works under the guidance of the DCFS Director to provide culturally appropriate support to Spokane Tribal children and families. This role must follow the Federal Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), the Washington State Indian Child Welfare Act (WICWA), and the Spokane Tribal Youth Code. The main goal is to help keep Native children in their homes when it is safe and prevent unnecessary separation from their families and culture. The social worker investigates reports of child abuse or neglect, writes care plans for families, manages cases, and works closely with courts and outside agencies. Regular court appearances, paperwork, and working with extended family, service providers, and tribal leaders are all important parts of this job.

 

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Quickly look into reports of child abuse or neglect on the Spokane Reservation. Decide if emergency action is needed to keep a child safe.
• Provide and keep records of “active efforts” – meaningful help to keep families together or bring them back together safely.
• Make sure all foster, pre-adoptive, and adoptive placements follow legal rules that prioritize keeping Native children with their relatives or within their tribe.
• Work with the Tribe’s legal team and act as, or find, Qualified Expert Witnesses for cases involving Spokane Tribal children.
• Create personalized care plans that build on the family’s strengths, include tribal traditions, and connect them to services like counseling, housing help, parenting support, and financial assistance.
• Arrange and supervise family visits and make sure they follow the safety plan and court orders.
• Perform background checks and safety checks for people who want to care for children. Help train and support foster families.
• Go to Tribal Court and state court as needed. Write reports, provide testimony, and explain recommendations clearly.
• Keep complete, private case records in the Tribe’s data system and follow all privacy laws.
• Join team meetings and planning sessions for families and participate in child protection reviews.
• Be available for emergencies after hours and provide on-call support about one week per month.
• Stay up to date on training, including state-required courses and annual ICWA/WICWA updates.
• Maintain certification as a Mandatory Reporter.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES REQUIRED: 

• Good understanding of ICWA and WICWA laws, especially around placement rules, notice, active efforts, and expert witnesses.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed and culturally respectful child welfare work, child development, and how families function.
• Ability to build positive, respectful relationships with children, parents, families, tribal leaders, and professionals.
• Strong problem-solving, investigation, and decision-making skills, especially in stressful situations.
• Excellent speaking and writing skills. Must be able to create detailed court reports and explain things clearly in court.
• Good at organizing time and handling multiple cases while meeting deadlines.
• Comfortable using Microsoft Office, case management software, and secure online tools.
• Must keep all information private and follow laws like HIPAA, FERPA, and tribal privacy rules.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, Human Services, or a similar field.
• Must complete the Alliance for Child Welfare Excellence Regional Core Training within 6 months of being hired.
• Must understand Federal ICWA and Washington WICWA rules.
• Must have a valid Washington driver’s license and be able to travel as needed.
• Must pass a background check according to tribal and federal rules.

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from an accredited program.
• Certified as an Indian Child Welfare or Tribal Social Work Specialist (such as through NICWA).
• Experience testifying as a Qualified Expert Witness in ICWA/WICWA cases.
• At least 1 year experience in child welfare.

 

*Tribal Preference Applies – Tribal Preference grants preference in employment to qualified enrolled Spokane Tribal Citizens, Spouses of Spokane Tribal Citizens, First Line Descendants of Spokane Tribal Citizens, and Citizens of other Tribes and Other Applicants, in that order.

 

*Safety Sensitive Background – Requires a higher standard of performance and behavior.

 

MUST APPLY ONLINE: https://spokanetribe.bamboohr.com/careers/464?source=aWQ9MTg%3D

 

Confirmation receipt of on-line application submission and interview status will be sent to all applicants e-mail address used when applying. Applicants are responsible to regularly monitor their e-mail for interview notifications.

 

Contact: Sabrina McCoy or Kammi Rosenbaum

(509) 458-6583 or (509) 458-6527  

 E-mail:   hrfrontdesk@spokanetribe.com

Applications Must Be Received In The Human Resources Department No

 Later Than 4:30 p.m. on the Closing Date

The Spokane Tribe Reserves The Right To Hire According To Its Indian Preference Policy

Applicants May be Subject To A Pre-Employment Drug Test Positions

All Positions With The Spokane Tribe Are Subject To A-90 Day Orientation

 

 

VACANCY ANN#:     STOI-25-097

TITLE:                          WATER & FISH BIOLOGIST 1 (ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST)

DEPARTMENT:        DNR

SUPERVISOR:          WATER & FISH PROGRAM MANAGER

LOCATION:                WELLPINIT, WA

STATUS:                      REGULAR FULL-TIME

RATE OF PAY:          $26.73 – $28.81 PER HOUR

OPENING DATE:      OCTOBER 29, 2025

CLOSING DATE:      DECEMBER 1, 2025

 

 

INTRODUCTION:

We are seeking an Environmental Scientist to develop a Toxic Reduction Strategy and implement toxics reduction projects. This is a three-year project that will address the reduction of toxics into the Spokane Reservation Basin by identifying, managing, and implementing toxics cleanup and mitigation activities. Additionally, the project will lead the planning and implementation of projects that address known toxics issues on the Reservation. The Environmental Scientist is responsible for coordinating with subcontractors, tribal programs, project managers, and field staff to develop and implement toxics reduction strategies, participate in various toxics groups including Upper Columbia United Tribes (UCUT).

 

Our ideal candidate will be forward thinking, self-driven with the ability to self-manage and take direction, demonstrates a high level of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, is motivated, enthusiastic, detail-oriented, has a positive work ethic and attitude, and is adaptable to both office and field work environments. This position requires experience or working knowledge of environmental toxicology, hazardous materials investigations, or risk assessments. We seek a candidate with strong technical and analytical skills including data management, data analyses, and report writing. This position is a supporting role to toxics-related projects under the Spokane Tribe’s Department of Natural Resources and will report to the Water and Fish Program Manager.

 

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Working with tribal programs and staff to develop a comprehensive Toxics Reduction Strategy for identifying, characterizing, prioritizing, and addressing toxics issues pertinent to the Spokane Tribe’s Reservation.
• Engage with Spokane Tribal members through public outreach events and or multimedia to identify community environmental concerns and priorities for addressing toxics related issues.
• Implement tackle exchange to reduce the use of lead in fishing gear.
• Assist in compilation of mine inventory in the region that could be Tribe.
• Assist Non-Point Project Manager in identifying, planning, and implementing non-point source buffer reduction project.
• Participate in various toxics reduction workgroups such as the Spokane River Toxics Advisory Committee (SRTAC) and the Upper Columbia United Tribes (UCUT) Toxics Reduction Workgroup.
• Assist in development of toxics reduction strategies in coordination with project managers, contractors, UCUT and SRTAC.
• Accessing and reviewing environmental files associated with CERCLA, MTCA sites and NPSDES permits and stormwater sampling.
• Apply technical expertise in reviewing and drafting sampling and analysis plans, quality assurance project plans, health and safety plans and project reporting.
• Coordinate with contractors and project staff to conduct field investigations, pilot studies, and remediation efforts.
• Conduct site visits and standard field sampling procedures for various environmental media as appropriate for each project.
• Assist in developing grants for implementing toxic reduction projects.
• Assist with field preparation and sampling as needed.
• Other duties may be assigned on as needed basis.

 

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIRED FOR POSITION:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Adobe Acrobat.
• Ability to manage and analyze large environmental datasets.
• Proficiency in spatial and statistical software programs such as ARCGIS and/or R is preferred.
• Familiarity with EPA water quality standards and a basic understanding of the Clean Water Act (CWA).
• Familiarity with CERCLA, TSCA, RCRA, MTCA, UMTRA or other similar environmental cleanup programs is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate and work effectively in an interdisciplinary team environment and as an independent contributor.
• Well organized with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent problem-solving, planning, technical writing, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and ability to organize, interpret, and graphically present data to technical audiences and decision makers.
• Strong work ethic, positive attitude and demonstrated ability to prioritize a variety of assignments to meet deadlines.
• This position requires the use of heavy equipment (vehicles) and is subject to the Spokane Tribe’s rug and alcohol testing policy.
• Adhere to relevant Health and Safety plans.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must have a valid WA State driver’s license and a good driving record.
• Must be willing to travel on occasion.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, Environmental Chemistry Environmental Toxicology, or other field related to toxicology.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience working in an environmental toxicology, hazardous materials, risk assessment, or remediation/restoration environment. A combination of education and work experience may fulfill this requirement.
• Must include a professional or academic writing sample.
• Must have 3 professional references.
• Must include resume and cover letter.

 

 

*Tribal Preference Applies – Tribal Preference grants preference in employment to qualified enrolled Spokane Tribal Citizens, Spouses of Spokane Tribal Citizens, First Line Descendants of Spokane Tribal Citizens, and Citizens of other Tribes and Other Applicants, in that order. 

 

MUST APPLY ONLINE: https://spokanetribe.bamboohr.com/careers/476?source=aWQ9MTg%3D

 

Confirmation receipt of on-line application submission and interview status will be sent to all applicants e-mail address used when applying. Applicants are responsible to regularly monitor their e-mail for interview notifications.

 

 

Contact: Sabrina McCoy or Kammi Rosenbaum

(509) 458-6583 or (509) 458-6527  

 E-mail:   hrfrontdesk@spokanetribe.com

Applications Must Be Received In The Human Resources Department No

 Later Than 4:30 p.m. on the Closing Date

The Spokane Tribe Reserves The Right To Hire According To Its Indian Preference Policy

Applicants May be Subject To A Pre-Employment Drug Test Positions

All Positions With The Spokane Tribe Are Subject To A-90 Day Orientation