TRIBAL RIGHTS OFFICERS (TERO)
Nisqually Indian Tribe
Olympia, WA
Tribal Employment Rights Officer (TERO Officer) |
Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance/Office (TERO) |
Non-Exempt / A-23 |
GENERAL SUMMARY
The Tribal Employment Rights Officer (TERO Officer) is responsible for administering the daily operations of the Tribal Employment Rights Office, under the supervision of the TERO Director. This position manages the business certification process, maintains Native preference hiring lists and skills banks, reviews compliance plans, and provides technical assistance to employers and community members. The TERO Officer conducts outreach, monitors contractor compliance, supports investigations, and assists with enforcement actions in accordance with Title 42 and Commission regulations. The TERO Officer performs operational duties under the administrative supervision of the TERO Director and in support of Title 42 oversight carried out by the Tribal Employment Rights Commission
This role requires maintaining confidentiality, ensuring the accuracy and security of records, and fostering positive relationships with employees, customers, and community members. Strong written and verbal communication skills, along with exceptional customer service, are essential. Regular attendance is required, and occasional evening or weekend hours may be necessary to meet project deadlines. A professional, well-groomed appearance is expected at all times.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
The following duties are representative of the responsibilities assigned to this position. Additional duties may be assigned as necessary.
Compliance & Operational Support
· Administer the certification and licensing system for businesses entitled to Native preference under Title 42.
- Maintain and update Native preference hiring lists, skills banks, and worker availability databases.
- Review employer compliance plans and ensure all requirements align with Title 42.
- Track contractor performance, workforce data, payroll/rosters, and reporting requirements; prepare summaries and trend reports for the Director.
- Support the Director and Compliance Officer with field inspections, job-site visits, audits, and verification of contractor compliance.
- Assist with issuing notices of non-compliance, corrective directions, or documentation requests when directed by the Director.
Outreach & Contractor Education
- Conduct outreach to contractors, unions, and employers, to educate them on Title 42, Native preference, reporting obligations, and compliance expectations.
- Provide technical assistance to employers during the hiring, contracting, and compliance planning process.
- Participate in community engagement activities to support Tribal member awareness of employment and contracting rights.
· Assist with public facing materials, contractor orientations, and training events.
Intake & Resolution Support
- Serve as the first point of intake for complaints and concerns from workers, employers, and community members.
- Conduct initial fact-finding, gather documentation, and escalate matters to the Compliance Officer or Director when appropriate.
- Support investigations in accordance with Title 42 procedures and confidentiality requirements.
- Recordkeeping & Administration
- Maintain accurate records, databases, and files, including certifications, compliance plans, job referral documentation, contractor reports, and enforcement actions.
- Prepare draft communications, notices, and reports at the direction of the Director.
- Maintain organized digital and physical systems that support transparency and audit readiness.
- Data Management
- With the assistance of the TERO Compliance Officer to track certifications, compliance plans, workforce data, and contractor records.
- Other Duties
- Participate in professional development opportunities, including training in contract management, contract compliance, investigations, and enforcement.
- Perform other duties as assigned to achieve the purposes of the TERO program.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
- Associate's degree in Business, Human Resources, or related field OR 3 years of administrative/HR experience in a tribal setting.
- Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's license and maintain a driving record that meets the minimum requirements established by Nisqually Indian Tribes vehicle insurance provider.
- Successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in Business, HR, Public Administration, or related field.
- Experience in contractor compliance, workforce administration, or tribal governance.
- Knowledge of the Nisqually Indian Tribe's history, customs, traditions, and ability to demonstrate cultural sensitivity.
- Experience working with Federally Recognized Tribes.
SUPERVISION
This position does not supervise. This position reports to the TERO Director.
COMPETENCIES
- Possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the primary responsibilities of the position
- . Knowledge of:
- Nisqually Title 42 requirements, Native preference enforcement, and contractor obligations.
- Tribal employment and contracting standards.
- Nisqually Tribal history, culture, and traditions.
- Compliance reporting systems, administrative procedures, and documentation standards.
- Skill in:
- Organizational and recordkeeping skills, including management of confidential information.
- Data entry, database, and report preparation skills.
- Effective written and verbal communication for contractor and community engagement.
- Customer service, diplomacy, and conflict resolution skills.
- Ability to:
- Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate cultural sensitivity in all interactions.
- Build collaborative relationships with contractors, employers, and Tribal members.
- Interpret and communicate policy requirements in accessible, practical terms.· Work independently while escalating compliance concerns appropriately.
- Obtain additional training or experience in contract management, regulatory compliance, or investigations as needed to fulfill Title 42 duties.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands; handle; feel; or grip objects, stretch and/or reach with hands and arms; stoop; crouch or work in cramped or awkward positions; repetitive motions. This person may regularly lift and/or move up to 30+ pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust to focus.