Director

About the Department 

The Education and Cultural Learning Department of the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians supports the academic, cultural, and personal growth of Tribal citizens and families. The department centers Tataviam identity in all educational efforts—ranging from early childhood to adult learning—through culturally grounded curriculum development, academic advising, scholarships, and outreach. We work to reclaim and revitalize traditional knowledge systems while supporting our students in navigating Western institutions. 

Position Overview 

The Director of the Education and Cultural Learning Department is responsible for advancing the Tribe’s educational sovereignty by managing all departmental programs, partnerships, curriculum development efforts, and staff. This leadership role requires a deep understanding of Indigenous education, experience with curriculum and program development, strong fiscal management skills, and the ability to mentor and supervise a multidisciplinary team. The Director will play a critical role in building partnerships with schools, universities, and cultural institutions to ensure educational access and cultural preservation for current and future generations. 

Key Responsibilities 

Strategic & Programmatic Leadership 

• Lead the development and implementation of department goals aligned with the Tribe’s strategic plan and educational sovereignty vision.
• Manage and oversee all educational and cultural programs including Tribal youth support services, academic tutoring, scholarship programs, cultural curriculum integration, and intergenerational learning.
• Expand educational partnerships with local school districts, higher education institutions, and Native-serving organizations.

Curriculum & Cultural Learning 

• Design and support the development of culturally responsive and tribally specific curriculum for K–12 and adult learners.
• Work with Elders, language keepers, cultural practitioners, and Tribal citizens to ensure accuracy and respect in all materials.
• Lead curriculum consultation efforts with educational institutions serving Tribal youth.

Fiscal & Administrative Oversight 

• Oversee the department’s budget, ensuring responsible and transparent fiscal management.
• Manage grants, contracts, and reports related to educational and cultural programming.

• Lead planning, evaluation, and performance tracking across all department initiatives.

Staff & Team Management 

• Supervise a growing team of 3–10 program coordinators, educators, and support staff.
• Conduct regular team meetings, professional development, and performance evaluations.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and culturally safe work environment.

Community Engagement & Advocacy 

• Serve as a representative of the Tribe in local, regional, and statewide education and cultural forums.
• Advocate for the rights and needs of Tribal youth and families in public education systems.
• Organize community events, workshops, and opportunities for intergenerational learning and cultural transmission.

Qualifications 

Required: 

• At least 5 years of experience in education, youth development, curriculum design, or a related field.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing educational or cultural programs.
• Strong knowledge of Indigenous pedagogy, educational sovereignty, and culturally responsive practices.
• Budget management and grant administration experience.
• Experience supervising staff and managing team-based projects.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Commitment to advancing Tribal values, cultural preservation, and self-determination.

Preferred: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Indigenous Studies, Curriculum Development, or related field.
• Experience working within Tribal governments, Native organizations, or Title VI/Indian Education programs.
• Familiarity with local school districts and state education policy.
• Knowledge of Fernandeño Tataviam or Southern California Native culture and history.

Physical Demands And Work Environment 

Duties are performed primarily in the field, as well as in the office. Travel is required to various locations in the region for meetings, conferences, speaking engagements, and site visits. Travel costs required for the job will be reimbursed at no more than the approved mileage rate. Evening and weekend work are required. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation will 

be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function. 

• Possible fieldwork may be required, and is subject to the environmental conditions of the season
• Ability to work in a standard office setting, with considerable sitting and viewing of monitor.
• Requires reaching continually throughout the workday (mouse, keyboard, and telephone).
• May include lifting thirty pounds on an infrequent basis. Proper lifting technique are required.
• Must use a personal cell phone for communications with supervisors and colleagues.

CONFIDENTIALITY 

This position develops, maintains, and is responsible for safeguarding the computer/electronic and hardcopy file folders containing sensitive and proprietary information about FTBMI and its members. If hired, the applicant will be required to sign a confidentiality agreement. The applicant must maintain the confidentiality of all work and files pertaining to enrollment, clients, survey results, and all other material that may identify individuals by name (either directly or by reference), as set forth by FTBMI. Any violation in this matter may result in immediate termination of employment.