Native American Tribal Liaison

About NoaNet

NoaNet is a non-profit mutual corporation providing telecom solutions and services and is headquartered in Gig Harbor, Washington. For over 20 years, NoaNet has operated a reliable public open-access broadband network that today totals over 3,800 fiber miles and touches every county in Washington State. Our organization provides rural areas access to broadband services, supporting more than 100 last-mile providers that serve more than 260,000 customers. NoaNet’s owner/members are nine public utility districts and a joint operating agency. Learn more about NoaNet at https://noanet.net.

Career Overview

The Native American Tribal Liaison serves as the primary point of contact between NoaNet and Native American Tribes. This role is responsible for fostering strong relationships with tribal governments, understanding cultural and economic priorities, and facilitating telecommunications service expansion and business development within tribal communities. The liaison will ensure compliance with applicable laws, advocate for mutual business interests, and support operational and financial processes related to service agreements.

Responsibilities

Tribal Relations & Cultural Understanding

·       Establish and maintain respectful, collaborative relationships with tribal governments, councils, and community leaders.

·       Ensure company policies and projects align with tribal sovereignty, traditions, and economic goals.

·       Serve as a cultural advisor within the organization, providing guidance on appropriate communication, traditions, and protocols when working with Native American communities.

Telecommunications Operations & Business Development

·       Facilitate communication between tribal entities and internal teams regarding broadband and telecommunications infrastructure development.

·       Assist in negotiating agreements for network expansion, service contracts, and government funding opportunities (e.g., tribal broadband grants).

·       Collaborate with technical and engineering teams to ensure the feasibility and implementation of telecommunications projects on tribal lands.

·       Identify opportunities to enhance telecommunications services that support tribal economic growth, education, and public safety.

Regulatory Compliance & Advocacy

·       Monitor and interpret federal, state, and tribal regulations related to telecommunications and tribal sovereignty.

·       Ensure compliance with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), and other governing entities regarding service provisions and infrastructure.

·       Ensure that member and tribal broadband interests align and facilitate meetings as needed to maintain alignment.

·       Advocate for member and tribal broadband interests in company initiatives, public policy discussions, and regulatory filings.

Financial & Administrative Functions

·       Support the development and processing of service agreements, invoices, and payments related to tribal accounts.

·       Assist in tracking grant funding, reimbursements, and financial obligations between the company and tribal governments.

·       Work with accounting and finance teams to ensure accurate billing and dispute resolution for tribal customers.

Education, Training, Knowledge, Skills, and Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Communications, Indigenous Studies, or a related field or equivalent experience in tribal relations and telecommunications.

Experience:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in tribal relations, telecommunications operations, business development, or a related field.
• Experience working with Native American governments, enterprises, or tribal organizations.
• Knowledge of telecommunications infrastructure, broadband deployment, and service agreements.
• Understanding of tribal governance structures, sovereignty issues, and economic development initiatives.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills.
• Ability to build and maintain trust-based relationships with tribal communities.
• Business acumen in contract negotiation, project management, and regulatory compliance.
• Knowledge of basic financial operations, including billing, invoicing, and payable functions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other business communication tools.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with federal and state broadband funding programs for tribal communities.
• Knowledge of federal and state policies affecting telecommunications in Indian Country.
• Background in corporate social responsibility or community outreach within Native American communities.

Availability and Travel Requirements

·       Hybrid or remote work options may be available, with regular travel to tribal lands and community meetings.

·       Ability to attend in-person events, conferences, and stakeholder engagements as needed.

Other Requirements

·       Driving a company car may be required: must have a current, state issued driver’s license with a clean driving record; must be able to provide proof of valid driver’s license and insurance

·       Must be able to lift and carry up to 20 pounds

·       The ability to move safely over uneven terrain

Benefits

• Defined Benefit Retirement Plan through the WA State Department of Retirement Systems
• 457b Optional Supplemental Retirement Plan
• Medical, Dental and Vision insurance
• Accidental Death and Long Term Disability Plan
• Combined Paid Leave
• 11 Paid Holidays

EEO: We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or another characteristic protected by law.  

Disclaimer: The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, and responsibilities required of employees assigned to this job.

Salary : $67,000 - $80,000