Tribal Administrator

  • Full Time
  • Oakhurst, California
  • $150,000 - $170,000 Annually USD / Year

Website Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians

DEPARTMENT: Administration
REPORTS TO: Tribal Council
EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Exempt – Full-Time w/Benefits
SALARY RANGE: $150,000 – $170,000 Annually
APPLICATION DEADLINE: March 6, 2026
Location: Onsite – Remote or hybrid work arrangements are not permitted
 

JOB SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians Tribal Council, the Tribal Administrator shall be responsible for the general and active management of the Tribe’s administrative affairs. This role includes leading the development and execution of both short- and long-term goals outlined in the Tribe’s strategic plan. The Tribal Administrator is also tasked with implementing policies, orders, and resolutions approved by the Tribal Council. Additional duties assigned by the Tribal Council shall be carried out as appropriate and in a timely manner.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

·        Manage government programs and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations

·        Oversee budget preparation and monitor financial performance across departments and programs

·        Ensure accurate financial reporting and tracking of expenditures and grants

·        Align departmental and program budgets with strategic goals

·        Provide leadership and establish clear objectives for departments

·        Communicate regularly with the Tribal Council, providing updates and progress reports

·        Review and implement policies and procedures consistent with the Tribe’s values

·        Lead conflict resolution efforts and promote a positive work environment

·        Safeguard the Tribe’s assets and ensure legal protection and governance

·        Oversee human resources functions, including recruitment, hiring, and policy compliance

·        Ensure consistent application of personnel policies

·        Manage payroll, accounts payable/receivable, and general ledger processes

·        Analyze financial reports to support fiscal health and sustainability

·        Oversee grants, contracts, and service agreements, ensuring compliance and timely reporting

·        Assist in negotiating and drafting contracts aligned with strategic objectives

·        Represent the Tribe with integrity and uphold its reputation in all professional interactions

·        Travel may be required for training or meetings.

·        Support departmental operations through additional duties assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

·        Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Tribal Governance, Finance,  or related field (required)

·        Master’s degree in a related field (preferred)

·        Extensive experience in tribal government or public administration may substitute for formal education    

·        Minimum of 5 years in progressively responsible management or administrative roles

·        Experience supervising director-level staff and managing multidisciplinary teams

·        Strong background in financial management, budgeting, and government fund accounting

·        Proven experience managing grants and contracts in compliance with federal, state, and tribal laws

·        Familiarity with tribal governance, ICWA, and tribal-specific policies

·        Demonstrated success in strategic planning and program implementation

·        Proven ability to meet deadlines while maintaining confidentiality

·        Familiarity with the Tribe’s Constitution, laws, and cultural practices is preferred but not required

·        Must successfully pass a background check, drug screening, and possess a valid driver’s license.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

·       Deadline for Application: March 6, 2026

·       Please submit your application and supporting documents (i.e., resume, transcripts, certifications through our online portal at www.chukchansi-nsn.gov/careers.

TRIBAL & INDIAN PREFERENCE STATEMENT

 In accordance with applicable Tribal law and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians (PRCI) Administration provides employment preference to enrolled PRCI Tribal Members. To qualify, applicants must submit valid proof of enrollment.

Tribal Members who meet the minimum qualifications will be given preference in hiring, promotion, transfer, and layoff decisions. During the interview process, PRCI Tribal Members will receive an additional 7.5 points (10% of the 75-point interview rubric). Non-PRCI Native American candidates will receive an additional 5 points (6.7% of the total points) in accordance with Indian Preference guidelines.

INDIAN PREFERENCE STATEMENT:

In compliance with 25 CFR Part 276 and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, Sections 701(b) and 703(i), employment preference shall be given to qualified applicants who are enrolled members of the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians, and secondarily, to another qualified American Indian/Alaska Native Candidate.

To apply for this job email your details to sjohnson@chukchansi-nsn.gov