Canoe Journey Program Planner | Nisqually Tribal Member Only
- Olympia, WA
- $92,937 per year
- Temporary
- Full-time
Duration: This position is temporary and will conclude upon completion of the 2026 Paddle to Nisqually Canoe Journey.The Canoe Journey Program Planner is responsible for leading the coordination, planning, and successful execution of the 2026 Paddle to Nisqually Canoe Journey Potlatch. This position ensures that the event honors and upholds Nisqually and Coast Salish cultural traditions, promotes community involvement, and reflects tribal values. The Planner will oversee program development, logistics, partnerships, volunteer coordination, and budget management to ensure a culturally vibrant and safe Canoe Journey experience. This high-responsibility role requires advanced experience in complex event management, budget administration, and cross-cultural collaboration. The Planner ensures that all planning decisions reflect both fiscal discipline and Nisqually cultural values, maximizing community benefit while minimizing unnecessary expenditures.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 RESPONSIBILITIESThe following duties are representative of the responsibilities assigned to this position. Additional duties may be assigned as necessary.Event Planning & Coordination
- Develop and implement a comprehensive master plan for Canoe Journey event with defined timelines, deliverables, and budget milestones.
- Ensure competitive bidding for goods and services, prioritizing cost-efficiency without compromising quality.
- Lead planning and logistics for transportation, lodging, meals, event infrastructure, water safety, medical support, and general security.
- Serve as the central point of contact for internal departments and external partners related to event operations.
- Maintain an accurate project schedule and task-tracking system.
- Collaborate with Tribal Council, Elders, Youth, and cultural leaders to ensure the event planning process aligns with cultural protocols and community input.
- Facilitate intertribal communications with visiting Canoe Families and partner tribes.
- Plan and support community gatherings, protocol gift-making sessions, and volunteer preparation events.
- Support the Canoe Journey's substance- and alcohol-free policy through community education and prevention partnerships.
- Develop and manage the event budget; monitor expenditures and provide timely reporting to administration and funders.
- Seek, secure, and maximize grants, sponsorships, and in-kind contributions to support event needs and offset expenses.
- Negotiate vendor contracts to achieve best value and avoid cost overruns.
- Track all income and expenses and ensure compliance with funding requirements.
- Ensure zero use of contingency funds unless authorized through Tribal Administration.
- Design programming that is cost-conscious yet impactful, leveraging partnerships and shared resources to reduce costs.
- Design, coordinate, and implement cultural programs, workshops, youth engagement activities, and performances.
- Develop volunteer recruitment, onboarding, and training plans.
- Ensure all programs and roles reflect respect for diversity, equity, and cultural relevance.
- Develop and manage a communications strategy including public announcements, press coordination, and social media outreach.
- Produce culturally appropriate promotional materials and community updates.
- Act as a spokesperson or media liaison, as directed by leadership.
- Lead safety planning in coordination with Tribal Public Safety, Emergency Services, and medical providers.
- Develop emergency preparedness and crisis response protocols.
- Ensure all local, state, and federal permits and safety standards are met.
- Demonstrated experience in budget management, grant writing, and community-based program development.
- Prior financial management training or college course in accounting.
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in large-scale event coordination, program or project management.
- Deep knowledge and respect for Coast Salish/Nisqually culture, potlatch traditions, and intertribal protocol.
- Strong communication, leadership, and facilitation skills across diverse communities.
- Experience in working with tribal communities and upholding sovereignty and cultural revitalization principles.
- 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.
- The ability to work with vulnerable populations including adults and children.
- Must pass a State and National (FBI) criminal history background check prior to employment.
- Education or experience in Event Management, Public Administration, Tribal Governance, Cultural Studies, or related field preferred.
- Knowledge of Native language(s), songs, and traditional teachings highly valued
- Knowledge of the Nisqually Indian Tribe's history, customs, traditions, and ability to demonstrate cultural sensitivity.
- Experience working with Federally Recognized Tribes.