LAND ACQUISITION SPECIALIST

VACANCY ANN#: STOI-25-001
TITLE: LAND ACQUISITION SPECIALIST 
DEPARTMENT: NATURAL RESOURCES, WILDLIFE 
SUPERVISOR: WILDLIFE PROGRAM MANAGER 
STATUS:  REGULAR, FULL-TIME, NON-EXEMPT
RATE OF PAY: $27.00 - $35.00 / PER HOUR 
OPENING DATE: FEBRUARY 25, 2025 - REVISED
CLOSING DATE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED 

INTRODUCTION:

This is a new position within the Spokane Tribe’s Department of Natural Resources. Funded by Bonneville Power Administration through the tribe’s new MOA, land acquisitions will be purchased for the preservation of fish and wildlife habitat on reservation and within the Spokane Tribe’s usual and accustomed area. The Spokane Tribal Natural Resources Land Acquisition Specialist will be responsible for identifying, evaluating, and facilitating the acquisition of land on behalf of the Spokane Tribe of Indians in compliance with Federal Regulations and Guidelines. This position plays a critical role in expanding the tribe's land base and ensuring the long-term sustainability and stewardship of its natural resources.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct research and analysis to identify potential land and natural resource acquisition opportunities that align with the Spokane Tribe's natural resource management plans.
• Work closely with DNR staff to identify and prioritize new parcels for land acquisition for the preservation of fish and wildlife habitat.
• Organize, implement, and pursue new acquisitions while following the Spokane Tribe and with Federal Regulations and Guidelines protocol for land acquisition.
• Work closely with DNR staff and BPA’s lands team to make sure all new acquisitions are in compliance with tribal, county, and BPA’s requirements in an efficient and timely matter.
• Evaluate the feasibility and viability of potential land acquisition, including assessing factors such as land ownership, zoning, environmental conditions, and market value.
• Able to review Land Titles and identify encumbrances that could have implications on purchases.
• Assist in negotiating terms, drafting and reviewing contracts, and coordinating with legal counsel.
• Manage the land acquisition process, including coordinating with federal, state & county agencies, conducting due diligence, and ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
• Collaborate with the Spokane Tribal Council, Tribal Planning Department, Tribal Natural Resources Department, and other relevant stakeholders to align land acquisition efforts with the tribe's long-term goals and objectives.
• Develop and maintain relationships with landowners, natural resource professionals, and other key partners to facilitate future land acquisition opportunities.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and other documentation to support the Spokane Tribe's land and acquisition efforts and decision-making processes.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development to stay informed of best practices and emerging trends in tribal land acquisition and management.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of the tribe's land assets, including ownership, boundaries, and resource inventories.
• Develop and implement systems and processes for managing and analyzing spatial and non-spatial data related to land acquired for natural resource management.
• Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Thorough understanding of federal, state, county and tribal laws and regulations related to land acquisition and management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to evaluate complex real estate and natural resource-related issues.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Proficient in the use of relevant software and technology tools for land acquisition, including but not limited to Arc GIS or similar mapping software, Microsoft word and excel for research, and data analysis.
• Must be able to comprehend legal documents related to land acquisitions such as legal descriptions, easements, title deeds, surveys, and conservation easements.
• Must be organized and able to work efficiently and independently to meet land acquisition timelines and deadlines as identified by BPA’s land acquisition protocol.
• Knowledge of the Spokane Tribe's history, culture, and natural resource-related issues is highly desirable.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university required. 
• Minimum of 2 years of experience working with tribal governments. Must have experience reviewing & general knowledge of legal documents such as tribal resolutions, budgets, grants, or land acquisitions. 
• Valid driver’s license and tribally insurable.
• Must be bondable.

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

Contact: Sabrina McCoy or Kammi Rosenbaum

 509-458-6583 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

Positions Considered Safety Sensitive Also Test for Marijuana

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

Salary : $27 - $35