Summary:

Position assists Tribal Members in maintaining self-sufficiency and healthy lifestyles through access to Tribal and community resources, education, and supportive services. Identification of service gaps to guide planning, development, and implementing social services programs is integral to the position.

Essential Responsibilities and Duties:

1. Advocate for and protect Ponca members' rights to their Tribal and cultural heritage.
2. Assist in analyzing community resources, assisting tribal members, planning, developing, and implementing social service programs.
3. Provide Case Management to Ponca children, their families, and elders.
4. Maintain accurate client and program files.
5. Cooperate and collaborate with Federal, State, and local agencies.
6. Provide Ponca cultural awareness and education for collaborative partners and state entities as needed.
7. Complete monthly reports.
8. Provide direct services, referrals to community and PTN resources, and advocacy as necessary to meet identified needs of members.
9. Assist the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) Specialist in providing ICWA case management.
10. Provide assistance to Ponca children and families in Tribal Court proceedings.
11. Participate in departmental planning, staff meetings, committee assignments, and education events as directed.
12. Assist with support group and community education events as needed and when time permits.
13. Practice strict confidentiality in accordance with all applicable PTN policies.
14. Assist meeting the goals and objectives of the department.
15. Other duties as assigned.

Relationships and Authority:

This position has no supervisory authority. Works closely with ICWA Specialist, other DSS staff members, PTN employees, and external organizations and agencies. Travel within the service area and as directed is required.

Working Environment and Physical Demands:

This position is in a professional office environment. Duties include, but not limited to, home visitation, tribal and county/state court appearances, family team meetings, and representation of PTN DSS with state agencies, service organizations, and community coalitions. Work may require occasional weekend and/or evening work.

Qualifications:

Minimum:

1. Associates degree in a human services or education related field, or an equivalent combination of experience and education.
2. One year experience in case management.
3. Computer proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access programs.
4. Must possess excellent written and oral communication skills.
5. Must have valid driver's license and be insurable.
6. Must successfully pass drug and alcohol testing, motor vehicle, education, character, and criminal background checks.
7. Able and willing to travel.

Preferred:

1. Bachelor's degree in a human services related field.
2. One or more years of case management experience.
3. One or more years experience with state and/or tribal courts.
4. One or more years experience working with Native Americans or Native American organizations.
5. Knowledge and understanding of Public Law 93-638: Indian Self-Determination Act.

Preference will be given to Ponca Tribe of Nebraska members or members of a federally recognized tribe. However, all qualified individuals are eligible.

The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska is an at-will employer.

Tribal Council Approval: 10/26/20, 08/07/22

Human Resources Final: 08/07/22