City of Portland
Portland, OR, USA
Tribal Government Relations Manager (Government Relations Specialist III)
City of Portland
Salary: $120,785.60 - $172,764.80 Annually
Job Type: At Will
Job Number: 2025-00781
Location: 1221 SW 4th Ave, OR
Bureau: Office of Government Relations
Closing: 10/6/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
The Position
Job Appointment: Full-TimeWork Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm. An alternate schedule may be available.Work Location: 1221 SW 4TH AVE, PORTLAND, OR 97204Benefits: For an overview of the benefits for this position, you can visit our benefits tab.Union Representation: Non-represented, no union affiliationApplication Material: Please click APPLY to submit your application via the City of Portland's online portal. You will need to attach a resume and a cover letter.
The Office of Government Relations seeks to hire a Tribal Government Relations Manager (Government Relations Specialist III). Long before the city of Portland was incorporated, Native American and Indigenous people lived in thriving communities along the Columbia and Willamette rivers and throughout the surrounding geography. Now, the City of Portland seeks to address a history of harm to indigenous people, rebuild trust, repair relationships, and create an inclusive, welcoming city for Tribal members and all Portland residents alike.
The position will facilitate city efforts to engage elected officials, city leaders, and program staff to coordinate, collaborate, and consult with federally recognized sovereign Tribal governments. This will include establishing meaningful relationships to honor treaty rights and cultural heritage, inform decision-making, and improve outcomes for Tribal Nations and their members.
The work will advance the City's core values of Anti-Racism, Equity, Transparency, Communication, Collaboration, and Fiscal Responsibility.
As the Tribal Government Relations Manager (Government Relations Specialist III), you will:
• Support city leadership and elected officials to establish government-to-government relationships with sovereign Tribal Nations. • Lead the facilitation of mutual agreements between the city and Tribal Nations to help inform decision-making, guide city programs, and/or align the city's internal policies, procedures, and practices to improve outcomes for Tribal communities. • Serve as the primary liaison for the City of Portland to support coordination and consistency in our relationships and effective program delivery related to Tribal Nations and their members. • Inform and advise city leadership, elected officials, and city staff on Tribal history, treaties, sovereignty, self-governance, protocols, customs, and traditions, to support respectful and trusting relations with Tribal governments that honor cultural heritage. • Provide staff support to city elected officials and city leadership at key meetings, conferences, ceremonial events, and public hearings dealing with tribal affairs. • Provide information and talking points to city elected officials and city leadership for media inquiries and other external communications. • Identify opportunities for city leadership and elected officials in ways that inspire robust participation in the Government-to-government Tribal Relations body of work. • Convene an internal program advisory team to support a process of engagement and collaboration with sovereign tribes. • Build and maintain close working relationships with regional and state governmental partners. • Build and maintain close working relationships with bureau staff across the City to create efficient avenues to advance program work and ensure outcomes are aligned with core City values. • Participate in the City's internal bureaus' Tribal liaison convenings to inform and advise the liaisons on work related to the city's agreements with Tribal Nations. • Collaborate and coordinate closely with the Urban Native and Indigenous community engagement work that will be separately located under the leadership of the city's Community Engagement Officer.
The Portland Office of Government Relations is offering an optional Information Session for this position. Please see the "Additional Information" section below for more details on how to join.
Questions?:Terrol JohnsonSenior Recruitermailto:terrol.johnson@portlandoregon.gov
To Qualify
Applicants must specifically address and demonstrate in their cover letter and resume how their education, training, work experience, and/or lived experience meet each of the following minimum qualifications:
• Knowledge of Tribal matters and policies, which may include federal, state, and local laws, regulations and court decisions relating to federal Indian policy, historic and cultural resources, treaties, natural resources, and tribal consultation. • Knowledge of local and regional Tribal issues and political landscape, as well as intersectionality of urban Native issues. • Knowledge of intergovernmental affairs, community relations, and public affairs issues and challenges, relevant laws and regulations, and court decisions. • Ability to think critically, creatively, and proactively to identify City programs, operations, and policies that would benefit from tribal government involvement, as well as how enhancing Tribal relationships can benefit City goals. • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials and their staff, the public, bureau leadership and staff, intergovernmental and other agency staff, and others encountered in the course of work. • Ability to collaborate with communities of color and people traditionally underrepresented in local decision-making; facilitate inclusive participation in programs and activities; communicate cross-culturally. Training and Experience
A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities outlined above is:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in public administration, public policy, or a related field; AND
Six (6) years' experience in legislative analysis or intergovernmental affairs; OR
Any equivalent education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the position's duties and responsibilities as stated in the above minimum qualifications.
Desired, but not required qualifications:
• Experience working with sovereign tribal governments and elected officials. • Experience managing communications in a political environment. • Ability to navigate sensitive political environments. • Knowledge of conflict resolution and coalition building.
The Recruitment Process
STEP 1: Apply online between September 8, 2025, and October 6, 2025 Required Application Materials: • Cover letter. • Details are key! The city uses a merit-based system, so your cover letter should be thorough and specifically address each qualification listed in the "To Qualify" section of the job announcement. Your cover letter can exceed one page to ensure you can provide detailed information for every qualification. Follow the instructions, as a subject matter expert will be evaluating your details to confirm that you meet the minimum requirements.
• Resume • Answer to three (3) Supplemental Questions (click on the Questions tab to preview the questions) • Optional Application Materials: • If you would like to request Veteran's Preference, please submit your Veteran documents (ex, DD214-Member 4, VA Benefit Letter, etc.) by the closing date of the recruitment. • Application Tips: • Your cover letter can exceed one page but no more than three, to ensure you can provide detailed information for every qualification. A subject matter expert will evaluate your details to confirm that you meet the minimum requirements. • Your resume should support the details described in your cover letter. • How We Determine Pay: The City of Portland is covered by the https://www.oregon.gov/boli/workers/pages/equal-pay.aspx. Your salary is determined based on the experience listed in your resume that is directly related and equivalent to the position for which you are applying. It is strongly encouraged to include any transferable experience (paid or unpaid, regardless of how recent) to ensure your offer is reflective of all your relevant experience. • E-mailed and/or faxed applications will not be accepted. • Do not attach any additional documents. • Please note that all completed applications for this position must be submitted no later than on the closing date and time of this recruitment. • You can use AI tools to assist with your job application, but please make sure to personalize your responses to supplemental questions. Avoid copying and pasting. We encourage the use of AI to generate ideas and then tailor them to reflect your own experiences and skills. • All applications must be submitted via the City's online application process.
BOLI: Equal Pay for Workers: State of OregonEvery worker must get equal pay for equal work regardless of gender, race, age, or other protected characteristics.Step 2: Minimum Qualification Evaluation: Week of October 6, 2025 • An evaluation of each applicant's training and paid and unpaid experience, as demonstrated in their resume and cover letter, is weighted 100%. • Your resume and cover letter will be the basis for our evaluation of your qualifications for this position. Incomplete or inappropriate information may result in disqualification. • You have 14 days from the notice of the minimum qualification evaluation results to let us know if you would like to review and discuss your evaluation results. Please read the https://www.portland.gov/policies/human-resources-administrative-rules/employment/hrar-301-recruitment-processes for complete information. • Additional evaluation may be required before the establishment of the eligible list and/or final selection.
Step 3: Establishment of Eligible List: Week of October 13, 2025 • Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will be placed on the equally ranked eligible list.
Step 4: Selection (Interview): TBD • The hiring bureau will review and select candidates to interview. • Please note, that the selection process may take up to 90 days from the notification of being placed on the eligible list.
Step 5: Offer of Employment: TBD Step 6: Start Date: TBD • A start date will be determined after all conditions of employment have been met. •
*Timeline is approximate and subject to change*
Additional Information
OPTIONAL INFORMATION SESSION
To assist you in understanding this position, a one-hour online information session on the Tribal Government Relations Manager (Government Relations Specialist III) position will be offered at 1 p.m. on Thursday, October. 2nd, using Zoom. Time will be reserved for a question-and-answer period. Prospective candidates may participate by phone or computer, but are not required to use video or provide their full names to allow for anonymity. You are not required to attend to apply for this job.
If you need an interpreter or other accommodations to fully participate in this meeting, please contact Terrol Johnson at mailto:terrol.johnson@portlandoregon.gov.
How to join:
Tribal Government Relations Manager Recruitment Information Session
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89371055398?pwd=ArvPb4DYekhkrGqaWc3mkVbUTZcO8b.1
https://www.portland.gov/bhr/career-center/recruitment-policy for additional information regarding the following: • City of Portland Core Values • Recruitment Process - Work Status • Equal Employment Opportunity • Veteran Preference • ADA, Pregnancy, and Religious Accommodations
Did you know? The City of Portland has https://tinyurl.com/pdxh2a and offers https://www.portland.gov/bhr/eventshttps://www.portland.gov/bhr/events once per month. If you have questions after watching the videos, you are invited to contact the recruiter listed on the announcement.An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
To apply, please visit https://apptrkr.com/6577305
Full Time
Tribal Government Relations Manager (Government Relations Specialist III)
City of Portland
Salary: $120,785.60 - $172,764.80 Annually
Job Type: At Will
Job Number: 2025-00781
Location: 1221 SW 4th Ave, OR
Bureau: Office of Government Relations
Closing: 10/6/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
The Position
Job Appointment: Full-TimeWork Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm. An alternate schedule may be available.Work Location: 1221 SW 4TH AVE, PORTLAND, OR 97204Benefits: For an overview of the benefits for this position, you can visit our benefits tab.Union Representation: Non-represented, no union affiliationApplication Material: Please click APPLY to submit your application via the City of Portland's online portal. You will need to attach a resume and a cover letter.
The Office of Government Relations seeks to hire a Tribal Government Relations Manager (Government Relations Specialist III). Long before the city of Portland was incorporated, Native American and Indigenous people lived in thriving communities along the Columbia and Willamette rivers and throughout the surrounding geography. Now, the City of Portland seeks to address a history of harm to indigenous people, rebuild trust, repair relationships, and create an inclusive, welcoming city for Tribal members and all Portland residents alike.
The position will facilitate city efforts to engage elected officials, city leaders, and program staff to coordinate, collaborate, and consult with federally recognized sovereign Tribal governments. This will include establishing meaningful relationships to honor treaty rights and cultural heritage, inform decision-making, and improve outcomes for Tribal Nations and their members.
The work will advance the City's core values of Anti-Racism, Equity, Transparency, Communication, Collaboration, and Fiscal Responsibility.
As the Tribal Government Relations Manager (Government Relations Specialist III), you will:
• Support city leadership and elected officials to establish government-to-government relationships with sovereign Tribal Nations. • Lead the facilitation of mutual agreements between the city and Tribal Nations to help inform decision-making, guide city programs, and/or align the city's internal policies, procedures, and practices to improve outcomes for Tribal communities. • Serve as the primary liaison for the City of Portland to support coordination and consistency in our relationships and effective program delivery related to Tribal Nations and their members. • Inform and advise city leadership, elected officials, and city staff on Tribal history, treaties, sovereignty, self-governance, protocols, customs, and traditions, to support respectful and trusting relations with Tribal governments that honor cultural heritage. • Provide staff support to city elected officials and city leadership at key meetings, conferences, ceremonial events, and public hearings dealing with tribal affairs. • Provide information and talking points to city elected officials and city leadership for media inquiries and other external communications. • Identify opportunities for city leadership and elected officials in ways that inspire robust participation in the Government-to-government Tribal Relations body of work. • Convene an internal program advisory team to support a process of engagement and collaboration with sovereign tribes. • Build and maintain close working relationships with regional and state governmental partners. • Build and maintain close working relationships with bureau staff across the City to create efficient avenues to advance program work and ensure outcomes are aligned with core City values. • Participate in the City's internal bureaus' Tribal liaison convenings to inform and advise the liaisons on work related to the city's agreements with Tribal Nations. • Collaborate and coordinate closely with the Urban Native and Indigenous community engagement work that will be separately located under the leadership of the city's Community Engagement Officer.
The Portland Office of Government Relations is offering an optional Information Session for this position. Please see the "Additional Information" section below for more details on how to join.
Questions?:Terrol JohnsonSenior Recruitermailto:terrol.johnson@portlandoregon.gov
To Qualify
Applicants must specifically address and demonstrate in their cover letter and resume how their education, training, work experience, and/or lived experience meet each of the following minimum qualifications:
• Knowledge of Tribal matters and policies, which may include federal, state, and local laws, regulations and court decisions relating to federal Indian policy, historic and cultural resources, treaties, natural resources, and tribal consultation. • Knowledge of local and regional Tribal issues and political landscape, as well as intersectionality of urban Native issues. • Knowledge of intergovernmental affairs, community relations, and public affairs issues and challenges, relevant laws and regulations, and court decisions. • Ability to think critically, creatively, and proactively to identify City programs, operations, and policies that would benefit from tribal government involvement, as well as how enhancing Tribal relationships can benefit City goals. • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials and their staff, the public, bureau leadership and staff, intergovernmental and other agency staff, and others encountered in the course of work. • Ability to collaborate with communities of color and people traditionally underrepresented in local decision-making; facilitate inclusive participation in programs and activities; communicate cross-culturally. Training and Experience
A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities outlined above is:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in public administration, public policy, or a related field; AND
Six (6) years' experience in legislative analysis or intergovernmental affairs; OR
Any equivalent education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the position's duties and responsibilities as stated in the above minimum qualifications.
Desired, but not required qualifications:
• Experience working with sovereign tribal governments and elected officials. • Experience managing communications in a political environment. • Ability to navigate sensitive political environments. • Knowledge of conflict resolution and coalition building.
The Recruitment Process
STEP 1: Apply online between September 8, 2025, and October 6, 2025 Required Application Materials: • Cover letter. • Details are key! The city uses a merit-based system, so your cover letter should be thorough and specifically address each qualification listed in the "To Qualify" section of the job announcement. Your cover letter can exceed one page to ensure you can provide detailed information for every qualification. Follow the instructions, as a subject matter expert will be evaluating your details to confirm that you meet the minimum requirements.
• Resume • Answer to three (3) Supplemental Questions (click on the Questions tab to preview the questions) • Optional Application Materials: • If you would like to request Veteran's Preference, please submit your Veteran documents (ex, DD214-Member 4, VA Benefit Letter, etc.) by the closing date of the recruitment. • Application Tips: • Your cover letter can exceed one page but no more than three, to ensure you can provide detailed information for every qualification. A subject matter expert will evaluate your details to confirm that you meet the minimum requirements. • Your resume should support the details described in your cover letter. • How We Determine Pay: The City of Portland is covered by the https://www.oregon.gov/boli/workers/pages/equal-pay.aspx. Your salary is determined based on the experience listed in your resume that is directly related and equivalent to the position for which you are applying. It is strongly encouraged to include any transferable experience (paid or unpaid, regardless of how recent) to ensure your offer is reflective of all your relevant experience. • E-mailed and/or faxed applications will not be accepted. • Do not attach any additional documents. • Please note that all completed applications for this position must be submitted no later than on the closing date and time of this recruitment. • You can use AI tools to assist with your job application, but please make sure to personalize your responses to supplemental questions. Avoid copying and pasting. We encourage the use of AI to generate ideas and then tailor them to reflect your own experiences and skills. • All applications must be submitted via the City's online application process.
BOLI: Equal Pay for Workers: State of OregonEvery worker must get equal pay for equal work regardless of gender, race, age, or other protected characteristics.Step 2: Minimum Qualification Evaluation: Week of October 6, 2025 • An evaluation of each applicant's training and paid and unpaid experience, as demonstrated in their resume and cover letter, is weighted 100%. • Your resume and cover letter will be the basis for our evaluation of your qualifications for this position. Incomplete or inappropriate information may result in disqualification. • You have 14 days from the notice of the minimum qualification evaluation results to let us know if you would like to review and discuss your evaluation results. Please read the https://www.portland.gov/policies/human-resources-administrative-rules/employment/hrar-301-recruitment-processes for complete information. • Additional evaluation may be required before the establishment of the eligible list and/or final selection.
Step 3: Establishment of Eligible List: Week of October 13, 2025 • Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will be placed on the equally ranked eligible list.
Step 4: Selection (Interview): TBD • The hiring bureau will review and select candidates to interview. • Please note, that the selection process may take up to 90 days from the notification of being placed on the eligible list.
Step 5: Offer of Employment: TBD Step 6: Start Date: TBD • A start date will be determined after all conditions of employment have been met. •
*Timeline is approximate and subject to change*
Additional Information
OPTIONAL INFORMATION SESSION
To assist you in understanding this position, a one-hour online information session on the Tribal Government Relations Manager (Government Relations Specialist III) position will be offered at 1 p.m. on Thursday, October. 2nd, using Zoom. Time will be reserved for a question-and-answer period. Prospective candidates may participate by phone or computer, but are not required to use video or provide their full names to allow for anonymity. You are not required to attend to apply for this job.
If you need an interpreter or other accommodations to fully participate in this meeting, please contact Terrol Johnson at mailto:terrol.johnson@portlandoregon.gov.
How to join:
Tribal Government Relations Manager Recruitment Information Session
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89371055398?pwd=ArvPb4DYekhkrGqaWc3mkVbUTZcO8b.1
https://www.portland.gov/bhr/career-center/recruitment-policy for additional information regarding the following: • City of Portland Core Values • Recruitment Process - Work Status • Equal Employment Opportunity • Veteran Preference • ADA, Pregnancy, and Religious Accommodations
Did you know? The City of Portland has https://tinyurl.com/pdxh2a and offers https://www.portland.gov/bhr/eventshttps://www.portland.gov/bhr/events once per month. If you have questions after watching the videos, you are invited to contact the recruiter listed on the announcement.An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
To apply, please visit https://apptrkr.com/6577305
San Diego Association of Governments - SANDAG
Annual Salary Range: $191,817.60 - $297,336.00 First Review of Applications: June 12, 2025 Expected Start Date: July/August 2025
Description
The Chief Administrative and Public Affairs Officer is a member of the senior leadership team at SANDAG focused on operational excellence, transparency, and effective communications and engagement. This role oversees administrative functions including facilities operations. The Chief Administrative and Public Affairs Officer is dedicated to improving organizational efficiency, fostering accountability, and enhancing community engagement. They will strengthen internal collaboration and alignment across departments, ensuring that SANDAG continues to deliver exceptional value and service to the residents of the San Diego region. The Chief Administrative and Public Affairs Officer may act in the absence of the Chief Executive Officer.
Examples of Essential Duties
The following duties are typical for the Senior Director classification. Incumbents may not perform all the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties to address organizational needs and changing practices.
Organizational Excellence:
Promote lean government principles to streamline and improve processes while preserving high standards of service delivery.
Ensure that SANDAG’s programs and services remain aligned with the region’s needs and agency priorities.
Collaborate with departments to avoid duplication, address gaps, and further enhance quality control in existing processes.
External Communications and Engagement
Lead strategic communications and ensure that information on SANDAG services, programs, projects, and events is easily accessible.
Develop SANDAG messaging and branding. Identify and mitigate reputational and organizational risks.
Knowledge and Abilities
Knowledge of all aspects of administration and business operations of the organization including facilities operations; laws and policies governing and administered by the organization; principles of policy formulation; strategic planning, project management, performance measurement, and best practices for complex organizations; leadership techniques and principles and practices of supervision.
Ability to direct all aspects of the business operations for the organization; direct the work of multi-disciplinary staff engaged in business operations, facilities management, administrative functions, communications and public relations.
Provide oversight of the organization's strategic initiatives; envision, develop and deploy new programs and product offerings to meet evolving needs of the region; analyze problems, evaluate alternative solutions, and provide actionable recommendations that support the agency’s goals.
Typical Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree with major course work in business, communication, public administration, public policy or a related field is desirable.
At least eight years of increasingly responsible professional experience in a metropolitan planning organization or government environment including four years of supervisory and management experience.
The candidate selected for this position must successfully pass a pre-employment criminal background investigation and credit history verification; periodic re-checking of criminal background and credit history will be a condition of employment.
Benefits
SANDAG offers comprehensive benefits, to include health, dental, and vision insurance as well as employee assistance, wellness, and work/life balance programs. Additionally, SANDAG offers the following:
Hybrid work options
9/80 flexible work schedule
Pay-for-performance merit increases
Retirement - Defined Benefit Plan with the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS)
Retirement - 457 Defined Contribution Plan with Voya
Excellent health insurance options for employees and their eligible dependents
Free dental and vision insurance for employees and their eligible dependents
Education Assistance of up to $5,250 a year for regular employees
Free transit pass for use throughout the San Diego region, bus, Rapid Express, Trolley, and COASTER
Paid time off including 12 paid holidays, 2 floating holiday days, generous paid time off (PTO) per year, depending on length of service
Executive level positions:
Management Benefit valued at 2.5% of salary that can be applied towards time off, health premiums, or deferred compensation
Access to an Executive Health Program
Annual contribution to 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
Paid parking
Visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/sandag ? for information. First review June 12, 2025. EOE.
Full Time
Annual Salary Range: $191,817.60 - $297,336.00 First Review of Applications: June 12, 2025 Expected Start Date: July/August 2025
Description
The Chief Administrative and Public Affairs Officer is a member of the senior leadership team at SANDAG focused on operational excellence, transparency, and effective communications and engagement. This role oversees administrative functions including facilities operations. The Chief Administrative and Public Affairs Officer is dedicated to improving organizational efficiency, fostering accountability, and enhancing community engagement. They will strengthen internal collaboration and alignment across departments, ensuring that SANDAG continues to deliver exceptional value and service to the residents of the San Diego region. The Chief Administrative and Public Affairs Officer may act in the absence of the Chief Executive Officer.
Examples of Essential Duties
The following duties are typical for the Senior Director classification. Incumbents may not perform all the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties to address organizational needs and changing practices.
Organizational Excellence:
Promote lean government principles to streamline and improve processes while preserving high standards of service delivery.
Ensure that SANDAG’s programs and services remain aligned with the region’s needs and agency priorities.
Collaborate with departments to avoid duplication, address gaps, and further enhance quality control in existing processes.
External Communications and Engagement
Lead strategic communications and ensure that information on SANDAG services, programs, projects, and events is easily accessible.
Develop SANDAG messaging and branding. Identify and mitigate reputational and organizational risks.
Knowledge and Abilities
Knowledge of all aspects of administration and business operations of the organization including facilities operations; laws and policies governing and administered by the organization; principles of policy formulation; strategic planning, project management, performance measurement, and best practices for complex organizations; leadership techniques and principles and practices of supervision.
Ability to direct all aspects of the business operations for the organization; direct the work of multi-disciplinary staff engaged in business operations, facilities management, administrative functions, communications and public relations.
Provide oversight of the organization's strategic initiatives; envision, develop and deploy new programs and product offerings to meet evolving needs of the region; analyze problems, evaluate alternative solutions, and provide actionable recommendations that support the agency’s goals.
Typical Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree with major course work in business, communication, public administration, public policy or a related field is desirable.
At least eight years of increasingly responsible professional experience in a metropolitan planning organization or government environment including four years of supervisory and management experience.
The candidate selected for this position must successfully pass a pre-employment criminal background investigation and credit history verification; periodic re-checking of criminal background and credit history will be a condition of employment.
Benefits
SANDAG offers comprehensive benefits, to include health, dental, and vision insurance as well as employee assistance, wellness, and work/life balance programs. Additionally, SANDAG offers the following:
Hybrid work options
9/80 flexible work schedule
Pay-for-performance merit increases
Retirement - Defined Benefit Plan with the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS)
Retirement - 457 Defined Contribution Plan with Voya
Excellent health insurance options for employees and their eligible dependents
Free dental and vision insurance for employees and their eligible dependents
Education Assistance of up to $5,250 a year for regular employees
Free transit pass for use throughout the San Diego region, bus, Rapid Express, Trolley, and COASTER
Paid time off including 12 paid holidays, 2 floating holiday days, generous paid time off (PTO) per year, depending on length of service
Executive level positions:
Management Benefit valued at 2.5% of salary that can be applied towards time off, health premiums, or deferred compensation
Access to an Executive Health Program
Annual contribution to 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
Paid parking
Visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/sandag ? for information. First review June 12, 2025. EOE.
City of Portland
Portland, OR, USA
Tribal Government Relations Manager (Government Relations Specialist III)
City of Portland
Salary: $117,956.80 - $168,708.80 Annually
Job Type: At Will
Job Number: 2025-00352
Location: 1221 SW 4th Ave, OR
Bureau: Office of Government Relations
Closing: 4/21/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
The Position
Job Appointment: Full-TimeWork Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8 am-5 pm. An alternate schedule may be available.Work Location: 1221 SW 4TH AVE, PORTLAND OR 97204Benefits: Please check our benefits tab for an overview of the benefits for this position.Union Representation: Non-represented, no union affiliationTo view current labor agreements, please visithttps://www.portland.gov/bhr/employee-relations/labor-relations/labor-agreements.Application Material: Please click APPLY to submit your application via the City of Portland's online portal. You will need to attach a resume and cover letter.
The Office of Government Relations seeks to hire a Tribal Government Relations Manager (Government Relations Specialist III). Long before the city of Portland was incorporated, Native American and Indigenous people lived in thriving communities along the Columbia and Willamette rivers and throughout the surrounding geography. Now, the City of Portland seeks to address a history of harm to indigenous people, rebuild trust, repair relationships, and to create an inclusive, welcoming city for Tribal members and all Portland residents alike.
The position will lead city efforts to engage elected officials, city leaders, and program staff to coordinate, collaborate and consult with federally recognized sovereign Tribal governments. This will include establishing meaningful relationships to inform decision-making, honor treaty rights and cultural heritage, and improve outcomes for Tribal Nations and their members.
The work will advance the City's core values of Anti-Racism, Equity, Transparency, Communication, Collaboration, and Fiscal Responsibility.
As the Tribal Government Relations Manager (Government Relations Specialist III), you will:
• Support city leadership and elected officials to establish government-to-government relationships with sovereign tribal nations. • Lead the facilitation of mutual agreements between the city and tribal nations to help inform decision-making, guide city programs, and/or align the city's internal policies, procedures, and practices to improve outcomes for tribal nations and their members. • Serve as the primary liaison for the City of Portland to support coordination and consistency in our relationships and effective program delivery related to tribal nations and their members. • Work with tribal nations in a listening role to learn tribal history, treaties, sovereignty, self-governance, protocols, customs, and traditions. • Assist tribal nations in educating and advising city leadership, elected officials, and city staff with information to support respectful and trusting relations with Tribal governments that honor cultural heritage. • Serve as a point of contact for outreach from tribal nations, with the intent being to support and facilitate tribal government consultation in ways that reduce barriers and create transparent and consistent communication. • Provide staff support to city elected officials and city leadership at key meetings, conferences, ceremonial events, and public hearings dealing with tribal affairs. • Provide information and talking points to city elected officials and city leadership for media inquiries and other external communications. • Identify opportunities for city leadership and elected officials in ways that inspire robust participation in the government-to-government tribal relations body of work. • Convene an internal program advisory team to support a process of engagement and collaboration with sovereign tribes. • Buildand maintain close working relationships with regional and state governmental partners. • Build and maintain close working relationships with bureau staff across the city to create efficient avenues that advance program work and ensure outcomes are aligned with core city values. • Participate in the City of Portland's internal bureaus' tribal liaison convenings to inform and advise the liaisons on work related to the city's agreements with tribal nations. • Collaborate and coordinate closely with the urban native and indigenous community engagement work that will be separately located under the leadership of the city's Community Engagement Officer.
The Office of Government Relations is offering an optional Information Session for this position. Please see the "Additional Information" section below for more details on how to join. Questions?:Terrol Johnson Senior Recruiter mailto:terrol.johnson@portlandoregon.gov
To Qualify
Applicants must specifically address and demonstrate in their cover letter and resume how their education, training, work experience, and/or lived experience meets each of the following minimum qualifications:
• Knowledge of sovereign Tribal matters, policies, and government-to-government relations. • Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, regulations and court decisions relating to federal Indian policy, historic and cultural resources, treaties, natural resources, and tribal consultation including related laws and regulations. • Knowledge of local and regional Tribal issues and political landscape, and secondarily the intersectionality of urban Native issues. • Knowledge of intergovernmental affairs, community relations, and public affairs issues and challenges, relevant laws and regulations, and court decisions. • Ability to think critically, creatively, and proactively to identify City programs, operations, and policies that would benefit from tribal government involvement, as well as how enhanced Tribal relationships can benefit City goals. • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials and their staff, the public, bureau leadership and staff, intergovernmental and other agency staff, and others encountered in the course of work. • Although this position works primarily to engage sovereign Tribal Nations as distinguished from the overall Urban Indigenous community--Ability to collaborate with communities of color and people traditionally underrepresented in local decision-making; facilitate inclusive participation in programs and activities; communicate cross culturally. • Training and Experience
A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills and abilities outlined above is:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in public administration, public policy, or a related field; AND
Six (6) years' experience in legislative analysis or intergovernmental affairs; OR
Any equivalent education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the position's duties and responsibilities as stated in the above minimum qualifications.
Desired, but not required qualifications:
• Experience working with sovereign tribal governments and elected officials. • Experience managing communications in a political environment. • Ability to navigate sensitive political environments. • Knowledge of conflict resolution and coalition building.
The Recruitment Process
STEP 1: Apply online between March 31, 2025 - April 21, 2025 Required Application Materials: • Cover letter. • Details are key! The city uses a merit-based system, so your cover letter should be thorough and specifically address each qualification listed in the "To Qualify" section of the job announcement. Your cover letter can exceed one page, to ensure you can provide detailed information for every qualification. Follow the instructions, as a subject matter expert will be evaluating your details to confirm that you meet the minimum requirements.
• Resume • Answer to three (3) Supplemental Questions (click on the Questions tab to preview the questions) • Optional Application Materials: • If you would like to request Veteran's Preference, please submit your Veteran documents (ex, DD214-Member 4, VA Benefit Letter, etc.) by the closing date of the recruitment. • Application Tips: • Your cover letter can exceed one page but no more than three, to ensure you can provide detailed information for every qualification. A subject matter expert will evaluate your details to confirm that you meet the minimum requirements. • Your resume should support the details described in your cover letter. • How We Determine Pay: The City of Portland is covered by the https://www.oregon.gov/boli/workers/pages/equal-pay.aspx. Your salary is determined based on the experience listed in your resume that is directly related and equivalent to the position for which you are applying. It is strongly encouraged to include any transferable experience (paid or unpaid regardless of how recent) to ensure your offer is reflective of all your relevant experience. • E-mailed and/or faxed applications will not be accepted. • Do not attach any additional documents. • Please note, that all completed applications for this position must be submitted no later than on the closing date and time of this recruitment. • You can use AI tools to assist with your job application, but please make sure to personalize your responses to supplemental questions. Avoid copying and pasting. We encourage the use of AI to generate ideas and then tailor them to reflect your own experiences and skills. • All applications must be submitted via the City's online application process.
BOLI: Equal pay For Workers: State of OregonEvery worker must get equal pay for equal work regardless of gender, race, age, or other protected characteristics.Step 2: Minimum Qualification Evaluation: Week of April 21, 2025 • An evaluation of each applicant's training and paid and unpaid experience, as demonstrated in their resume and cover letter, weighted 100%. • Your resume and cover letter will be the basis for our evaluation of your qualifications for this position. Incomplete or inappropriate information may result in disqualification. • You have 14 days from the notice of the minimum qualification evaluation results to let us know if you like to review and discuss your evaluation result. Please read the https://www.portland.gov/policies/human-resources-administrative-rules/employment/hrar-301-recruitment-processes for complete information. • Additional evaluation may be required before the establishment of the eligible list and/or final selection.
Step 3: Establishment of Eligible List: Week of April 28, 2025 • Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will be placed on the equally ranked eligible list.
Step 4: Selection (Interview): TBD • The hiring bureau will review and select candidates to interview. • Please note, that the selection process may take up to 90 days from the notification of being placed on the eligible list.
Step 5: Offer of Employment: TBD Step 6: Start Date: TBD • A start date will be determined after all conditions of employment have been met.
*Timeline is approximate and subject to change*
Additional Information
OPTIONAL INFORMATION SESSION
To assist you in understanding this position, a one-hour online information session on the Tribal Government Relations Manager position will be offered at 2 p.m. on Friday, April. 11th, using Zoom. The Office of Government Relations and a Portland Bureau of Human Resources representative will share information about the position and the hiring process. Time will be reserved for a question-and-answer period. Prospective candidates may participate by phone or computer but are not required to use video or their full names to allow for anonymity. You are not required to attend to apply for this job.
If you need an interpreter or other accommodations to fully participate in this meeting, please contact Terrol Johnson at mailto:Terrol.Johnson@portlandoregon.gov by noon on Wednesday, April. 9th.
How to join:
Topic: Tribal Government Relations Program Manager Recruitment Information Session
Time: Apr 11, 2025, 02:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85273061491?pwd=phOaTKR45abU3YBXNQT9sE6aKvLW0U.1
Meeting ID: 852 7306 1491
Passcode: 511449
---
One tap mobile
+17193594580,,85273061491#,,,,*511449# US
+12532050468,,85273061491#,,,,*511449# US
https://www.portland.gov/bhr/career-center/recruitment-policy for additional information regarding the following:
• City of Portland Core Values • Recruitment Process - Work Status • Equal Employment Opportunity • Veteran Preference • ADA, Pregnancy, and Religious Accommodations
Did you know? The City of Portland has https://tinyurl.com/pdxh2a and offers https://www.portland.gov/bhr/eventshttps://www.portland.gov/bhr/events once per month. If you have questions after watching the videos you are invited to contact the recruiter listed on the announcement.An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
To apply, please visit https://apptrkr.com/6121280
Full Time
Tribal Government Relations Manager (Government Relations Specialist III)
City of Portland
Salary: $117,956.80 - $168,708.80 Annually
Job Type: At Will
Job Number: 2025-00352
Location: 1221 SW 4th Ave, OR
Bureau: Office of Government Relations
Closing: 4/21/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
The Position
Job Appointment: Full-TimeWork Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8 am-5 pm. An alternate schedule may be available.Work Location: 1221 SW 4TH AVE, PORTLAND OR 97204Benefits: Please check our benefits tab for an overview of the benefits for this position.Union Representation: Non-represented, no union affiliationTo view current labor agreements, please visithttps://www.portland.gov/bhr/employee-relations/labor-relations/labor-agreements.Application Material: Please click APPLY to submit your application via the City of Portland's online portal. You will need to attach a resume and cover letter.
The Office of Government Relations seeks to hire a Tribal Government Relations Manager (Government Relations Specialist III). Long before the city of Portland was incorporated, Native American and Indigenous people lived in thriving communities along the Columbia and Willamette rivers and throughout the surrounding geography. Now, the City of Portland seeks to address a history of harm to indigenous people, rebuild trust, repair relationships, and to create an inclusive, welcoming city for Tribal members and all Portland residents alike.
The position will lead city efforts to engage elected officials, city leaders, and program staff to coordinate, collaborate and consult with federally recognized sovereign Tribal governments. This will include establishing meaningful relationships to inform decision-making, honor treaty rights and cultural heritage, and improve outcomes for Tribal Nations and their members.
The work will advance the City's core values of Anti-Racism, Equity, Transparency, Communication, Collaboration, and Fiscal Responsibility.
As the Tribal Government Relations Manager (Government Relations Specialist III), you will:
• Support city leadership and elected officials to establish government-to-government relationships with sovereign tribal nations. • Lead the facilitation of mutual agreements between the city and tribal nations to help inform decision-making, guide city programs, and/or align the city's internal policies, procedures, and practices to improve outcomes for tribal nations and their members. • Serve as the primary liaison for the City of Portland to support coordination and consistency in our relationships and effective program delivery related to tribal nations and their members. • Work with tribal nations in a listening role to learn tribal history, treaties, sovereignty, self-governance, protocols, customs, and traditions. • Assist tribal nations in educating and advising city leadership, elected officials, and city staff with information to support respectful and trusting relations with Tribal governments that honor cultural heritage. • Serve as a point of contact for outreach from tribal nations, with the intent being to support and facilitate tribal government consultation in ways that reduce barriers and create transparent and consistent communication. • Provide staff support to city elected officials and city leadership at key meetings, conferences, ceremonial events, and public hearings dealing with tribal affairs. • Provide information and talking points to city elected officials and city leadership for media inquiries and other external communications. • Identify opportunities for city leadership and elected officials in ways that inspire robust participation in the government-to-government tribal relations body of work. • Convene an internal program advisory team to support a process of engagement and collaboration with sovereign tribes. • Buildand maintain close working relationships with regional and state governmental partners. • Build and maintain close working relationships with bureau staff across the city to create efficient avenues that advance program work and ensure outcomes are aligned with core city values. • Participate in the City of Portland's internal bureaus' tribal liaison convenings to inform and advise the liaisons on work related to the city's agreements with tribal nations. • Collaborate and coordinate closely with the urban native and indigenous community engagement work that will be separately located under the leadership of the city's Community Engagement Officer.
The Office of Government Relations is offering an optional Information Session for this position. Please see the "Additional Information" section below for more details on how to join. Questions?:Terrol Johnson Senior Recruiter mailto:terrol.johnson@portlandoregon.gov
To Qualify
Applicants must specifically address and demonstrate in their cover letter and resume how their education, training, work experience, and/or lived experience meets each of the following minimum qualifications:
• Knowledge of sovereign Tribal matters, policies, and government-to-government relations. • Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, regulations and court decisions relating to federal Indian policy, historic and cultural resources, treaties, natural resources, and tribal consultation including related laws and regulations. • Knowledge of local and regional Tribal issues and political landscape, and secondarily the intersectionality of urban Native issues. • Knowledge of intergovernmental affairs, community relations, and public affairs issues and challenges, relevant laws and regulations, and court decisions. • Ability to think critically, creatively, and proactively to identify City programs, operations, and policies that would benefit from tribal government involvement, as well as how enhanced Tribal relationships can benefit City goals. • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials and their staff, the public, bureau leadership and staff, intergovernmental and other agency staff, and others encountered in the course of work. • Although this position works primarily to engage sovereign Tribal Nations as distinguished from the overall Urban Indigenous community--Ability to collaborate with communities of color and people traditionally underrepresented in local decision-making; facilitate inclusive participation in programs and activities; communicate cross culturally. • Training and Experience
A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills and abilities outlined above is:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in public administration, public policy, or a related field; AND
Six (6) years' experience in legislative analysis or intergovernmental affairs; OR
Any equivalent education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the position's duties and responsibilities as stated in the above minimum qualifications.
Desired, but not required qualifications:
• Experience working with sovereign tribal governments and elected officials. • Experience managing communications in a political environment. • Ability to navigate sensitive political environments. • Knowledge of conflict resolution and coalition building.
The Recruitment Process
STEP 1: Apply online between March 31, 2025 - April 21, 2025 Required Application Materials: • Cover letter. • Details are key! The city uses a merit-based system, so your cover letter should be thorough and specifically address each qualification listed in the "To Qualify" section of the job announcement. Your cover letter can exceed one page, to ensure you can provide detailed information for every qualification. Follow the instructions, as a subject matter expert will be evaluating your details to confirm that you meet the minimum requirements.
• Resume • Answer to three (3) Supplemental Questions (click on the Questions tab to preview the questions) • Optional Application Materials: • If you would like to request Veteran's Preference, please submit your Veteran documents (ex, DD214-Member 4, VA Benefit Letter, etc.) by the closing date of the recruitment. • Application Tips: • Your cover letter can exceed one page but no more than three, to ensure you can provide detailed information for every qualification. A subject matter expert will evaluate your details to confirm that you meet the minimum requirements. • Your resume should support the details described in your cover letter. • How We Determine Pay: The City of Portland is covered by the https://www.oregon.gov/boli/workers/pages/equal-pay.aspx. Your salary is determined based on the experience listed in your resume that is directly related and equivalent to the position for which you are applying. It is strongly encouraged to include any transferable experience (paid or unpaid regardless of how recent) to ensure your offer is reflective of all your relevant experience. • E-mailed and/or faxed applications will not be accepted. • Do not attach any additional documents. • Please note, that all completed applications for this position must be submitted no later than on the closing date and time of this recruitment. • You can use AI tools to assist with your job application, but please make sure to personalize your responses to supplemental questions. Avoid copying and pasting. We encourage the use of AI to generate ideas and then tailor them to reflect your own experiences and skills. • All applications must be submitted via the City's online application process.
BOLI: Equal pay For Workers: State of OregonEvery worker must get equal pay for equal work regardless of gender, race, age, or other protected characteristics.Step 2: Minimum Qualification Evaluation: Week of April 21, 2025 • An evaluation of each applicant's training and paid and unpaid experience, as demonstrated in their resume and cover letter, weighted 100%. • Your resume and cover letter will be the basis for our evaluation of your qualifications for this position. Incomplete or inappropriate information may result in disqualification. • You have 14 days from the notice of the minimum qualification evaluation results to let us know if you like to review and discuss your evaluation result. Please read the https://www.portland.gov/policies/human-resources-administrative-rules/employment/hrar-301-recruitment-processes for complete information. • Additional evaluation may be required before the establishment of the eligible list and/or final selection.
Step 3: Establishment of Eligible List: Week of April 28, 2025 • Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will be placed on the equally ranked eligible list.
Step 4: Selection (Interview): TBD • The hiring bureau will review and select candidates to interview. • Please note, that the selection process may take up to 90 days from the notification of being placed on the eligible list.
Step 5: Offer of Employment: TBD Step 6: Start Date: TBD • A start date will be determined after all conditions of employment have been met.
*Timeline is approximate and subject to change*
Additional Information
OPTIONAL INFORMATION SESSION
To assist you in understanding this position, a one-hour online information session on the Tribal Government Relations Manager position will be offered at 2 p.m. on Friday, April. 11th, using Zoom. The Office of Government Relations and a Portland Bureau of Human Resources representative will share information about the position and the hiring process. Time will be reserved for a question-and-answer period. Prospective candidates may participate by phone or computer but are not required to use video or their full names to allow for anonymity. You are not required to attend to apply for this job.
If you need an interpreter or other accommodations to fully participate in this meeting, please contact Terrol Johnson at mailto:Terrol.Johnson@portlandoregon.gov by noon on Wednesday, April. 9th.
How to join:
Topic: Tribal Government Relations Program Manager Recruitment Information Session
Time: Apr 11, 2025, 02:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85273061491?pwd=phOaTKR45abU3YBXNQT9sE6aKvLW0U.1
Meeting ID: 852 7306 1491
Passcode: 511449
---
One tap mobile
+17193594580,,85273061491#,,,,*511449# US
+12532050468,,85273061491#,,,,*511449# US
https://www.portland.gov/bhr/career-center/recruitment-policy for additional information regarding the following:
• City of Portland Core Values • Recruitment Process - Work Status • Equal Employment Opportunity • Veteran Preference • ADA, Pregnancy, and Religious Accommodations
Did you know? The City of Portland has https://tinyurl.com/pdxh2a and offers https://www.portland.gov/bhr/eventshttps://www.portland.gov/bhr/events once per month. If you have questions after watching the videos you are invited to contact the recruiter listed on the announcement.An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
To apply, please visit https://apptrkr.com/6121280
