Dakota Language Specialist

There are two openings for this position, and this position will remain open until filled.

SUMMARY: 

Under the direct supervision of the Dakota Culture/Language Manager, the Dakota Language Specialist serves as a cultural educator and advisor for the Prairie Island Indian Community. This role is responsible for advancing Dakota language and cultural knowledge through teaching, program development, and coordination with Tribal Elders, community members, and Tribal leadership. This position plays a critical role in preserving and promoting Dakota heritage by assisting with language classes, developing cultural curriculum, and responding to cultural needs and events within the community

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITIES:

The following duties and responsibilities are not meant to be all inclusive and may be adjusted to meet business needs.

• Assist with all Dakota language classes as needed by the Dakota Language Program


• Continue to work on personal fluency in Dakota language


• Develop coursework and programs on Dakota Culture


• Submit weekly reports and journaling to Dakota Culture/Language Manager


• Work with visiting Elders and Prairie Island Elders


• Assist in all events that require cultural assistance


• Help with all cultural requests by Tribal Council


• Support other departments’ Cultural needs if approved by Dakota Culture/Language Manager


• Other duties as assigned


• Must have the ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds


• Must be able to sit for long periods of time with occasional amounts of standing or walking

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Demonstrated cultural competence and experience with high-need populations


• 1 year of experience instructing groups of 10 or more individuals


• Foundational knowledge of Dakota Language


• Strong sensitivity and connection to Native American culture, particularly Dakota traditions


• Availability to work flexible hours including evenings or weekends


• Willingness and ability to travel for short- and long-term assignments


• Experience working both independently and in a team setting


• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)


• Experience maintaining accurate records, managing time, and reporting in an organized manner


• Must pass a drug screen (UA) and a federal criminal background check in compliance with the Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act and the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act


• Valid driver’s license and proof of insurability

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Dakota language proficiency or active language learning experience


• Experience teaching or facilitating cultural programs


• Background working with Tribal governments, education departments, or cultural preservation efforts

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:*

• Must have the ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds when needed


• Must be able to sit for periods of time with occasional standing and walking

REQUIRED TRAINING:

• Effectively handling harassment training


• Any position-related training as determined by Education Director discretion

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

• Work is performed primarily in an office setting, but may include outdoor activities and occasional travel for community engagement and events

DISCLAIMER AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

All Prairie Island Indian Community employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

The Prairie Island Indian Community Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance applies to this and all employment opportunities for the Community.