Job Description
Introduction
At NGM, our Community Development and Engagement Strategy focuses on building trust, respect, transparency, and partnerships with community stakeholders, including host communities, local governments, and Indigenous peoples.
As part of this strategy, the Native American Affairs Team collaborates with partner communities to engage in K-12 education and adult learning. The team alleviates barriers, promotes access to technology and resources, provides mentorship and guidance for college and career readiness, and serves as a liaison between schools and tribal education programs.
We are seeking a
Native American Education and Engagement Specialist to lead initiatives that empower students and communities, foster cultural connections, and support education and career development.
Key Responsibilities
High School Engagement
- Conduct regular visits to regional high schools to provide one-on-one and group sessions with students.
- Promote college and career readiness through activities such as FAFSA assistance, college tours, and immersion camps.
- Collaborate with guidance counselors or career and college administrators to ensure familiarity with programs and ensure the best support for students.
- Collaborate with high schools and NGM Human Resources to organize career fairs, internships, and facilitate Summer Youth Employment Program.
- Facilitate cultural events such as Culture Weeks, Education Days, and the Shoshone Reunion.
- Support Newe Numa Scholarship (NNSF) recipients and internships.
- Track data on graduation post-secondary graduation rates and support NNSF Alumni Association.
Pre-K and K-8 Engagement
- Lead STEM and literacy initiatives, including robotics demonstrations, reading contests, and book distribution for younger students.
- Support and promote tribal language programs to strengthen cultural understanding and identity.
- Organize educational programs and contests, such as Native American Heritage Month activities for 5th-6th graders.
Higher Education and Career Engagement
- Maintain relationships with college recruitment directors and coordinators within Nevada, Utah, and Idaho, expanding these networks as necessary to meet program needs.
- Assist, under the direction and supervision of the Native American Affairs Senior Specialist, in developing and maintaining networks with financial aid officers at colleges and universities to increase awareness of educational finance opportunities for students.
- Plan, structure, and facilitate college and university visitations for interested students in Nevada, Idaho, and Utah, expanding as necessary under the supervision of the Native American Affairs Senior Specialist.
- Increase awareness among tribal members about educational grants, scholarships, and resources, providing support with applications and capacity-building efforts.
- Plan, schedule, and assist students with higher education planning, ensuring they are well-prepared for post-secondary opportunities.
- Assist students and families in understanding college requirements, applications, timelines, financial aid, and other processes to successfully navigate post-secondary education.
- Work with parents and students to develop pathways for accessing college or university studies.
- Establish and maintain a resource bulletin to share educational scholarship updates.
- Provide application support for candidates interested in the Great Basin College Mining Technology Certification (MTC) program.
Engagement Activities
- Plan and execute enrichment programs, including high school mine tours, college immersion camps, and parent information nights.
- Develop and monitor KPIs to assess the impact of engagement activities.
Internal Data Management and Reporting
- Maintain accurate data to evaluate program outcomes and inform strategic development.
- Prepare reports and presentations for stakeholders and internal teams.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
High School Programs
- Student Participation Rate: Track attendance and engagement in workshops, meetings, and tours.
- Post-Visit Feedback: Evaluate student satisfaction and the effectiveness of guidance provided.
- Application Rates: Monitor the number of students applying for scholarships, financial aid, and post-secondary institutions.
- Career Readiness Metrics: Assess preparedness and interest in post-secondary education and workforce opportunities.
Pre-K and K-8 Programs
- Participation in STEM and Literacy Activities: Measure engagement in reading contests, robotics demonstrations, and other initiatives.
- Book Distribution Impact: Track the number of books distributed and assess student participation in related activities.
- Cultural Program Impact: Evaluate the influence of tribal language and cultural programs on students’ sense of identity and belonging.
Higher Education Programs
- College/University Visit Attendance: Track the number of students participating in planned visitations.
- Awareness and Application Metrics: Measure the increase in tribal member awareness and application rates for grants, scholarships, and financial aid.
- Higher Education Planning Impact: Assess students’ preparedness and success in navigating post-secondary pathways.
- Scholarship Updates and Applications: Monitor the effectiveness and reach of the resource bulletin for scholarships and the number of supported applications.
- MTC Program Applications: Track the number of students successfully applying to the Great Basin College Mining Technology Certification program.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in education, community development, social work or a related field.
- Experience in educational programming, particularly with Native American or underserved communities.
- Knowledge of STEM education, financial aid processes, and cultural preservation initiatives.
- Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
- Familiarity with regional tribal communities and education systems is highly desirable.
Work Locations
- Engagements will occur at high schools and Pre-K through K-8 schools across the region, including Elko, Owyhee, McDermitt, and others.
