Zisbakdokekage't (Sugarbush Worker)

Job Title: Zisbakdokekage't (Sugarbush)

Department: Language and Culture

Reports To: Mno Mijem Sovereignty Coordinator

Location: Tribal Properties

Status: Non-Exempt (NE-9)/Seasonal

Hourly Wage: $18.26 - $26.85

Open Date: February 12, 2025

Close Date: February 22, 2025

SUMMARY

The Zisbakdokekage'jek (Sugarbush) position will assist with Language and Culture programs including but not limited to our seasonal Tribal sugar bush camp and related activities. This seasonal employee must be willing to work a flexible schedule, as work is dependent on weather conditions. Additional employment beyond the sugaring season may be available and is conditional upon performance.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Familiarity with Pottawatomi culture

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to the following:

• Assist with sugar bush efforts that will include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Tapping maple trees, hanging buckets, collection of sap
  • Chopping and stacking firewood
  • Testing sugar content of sap
  • Operation of traditional and modern evaporating equipment
  • Bottling, sugar making and distribution
• Assist in maintaining equipment (Kubota, sugaring equipment, gardening equipment, etc.)
• Work at all seasonal events including but not limited to the Annual Maple Feast and Sugar Bush tours
• Assist with the maintaining and housekeeping of kitchen, cafeteria and sugar house
• Assist with the inventory of all equipment and resources
• Assist Language and Cultural Coordinators with work plan tasks related to youth language program activities, cultural program activities and food sovereignty activities
• Travel and training in areas of food sovereignty, seed saving and wild rice restoration may be required
• Assist Language and Culture Department staff with day-to-day activities when needed

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Must have good organizational skills and the ability to multi-task
• Must have a desire to work outside
• Flexible, highly organized and able to work independently
• Ability or willingness to learn to drive utility vehicle
• Ability or willingness to learn to operate all food sugaring equipment
• Must be self-motivated and able to work independently at times
• Ability to work with all age groups
• Must be able to maintain confidentiality according to Tribal, State and Federal standards and guidelines

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• First Aid certification must be obtained within 30 days of hire
• Servsafe food handling certification must be obtained within 30 days of hire
• This position will require non-traditional hours including working evenings, weekends and holidays as required for evening classes and seasonal events, to meet program requirements and deadlines
• This position requires the ability and willingness to travel for work assignments, meetings and continuing education
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is routinely in the field and regularly exposed to adverse or extreme weather conditions, temperatures, mud or similar unpredictable conditions
• Must be able to consistently lift up to 60lbs as well as bend, walk and stand for extended periods of time

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this job. These statements should not be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

All applicants must be able to demonstrate their U.S. work authorization during the employment verification process. The pre-employment process also requires the ability to pass a criminal background investigation and drug/alcohol test.

NATIVE AMERICAN PREFERENCE

The Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band recognizes Native American preference in its hiring and employment policies.

EMPLOYER BENEFITS AND COMPENSATION

This is a seasonal non-benefit position.

TO APPLY

You are required to register and apply through our online employment portal to be considered for this position.

https://gunlaketribe-nsn.gov/employment/

If you require assistance or to apply in person, please call 269.397.1780 to schedule an appointment.