1

Tribal Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tribal Energy Manager STATUS: Exempt DESCRIPTION: All work efforts focus on effectively meeting the needs of the Meskwaki Nation and its membership. The Energy Manager is responsible for shaping and ...

The PM will work with project team in Project Manager role to conduct Tribal Court Assessments for the identified Alaska villages on behalf of the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The team will conduct 15 ...

The PM will work with project team in Project Manager role to conduct Tribal Court Assessments for the identified Alaska villages on behalf of the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The team will conduct 15 ...

The PM will work with project team in Project Manager role to conduct Tribal Court Assessments for the identified Alaska villages on behalf of the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The team will conduct 15 ...

The PM will work with project team in Project Manager role to conduct Tribal Court Assessments for the identified Alaska villages on behalf of the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The team will conduct 15 ...

Provide leadership and guidance to department directors and management staff to promote accountability, operational excellence, and organizational consistency throughout Tribal government operations ...

Manage Grant Programs and Funding Compliance Provide executive oversight of all federal, state, Tribal, and private grant-funded programs. Ensure compliance with grant requirements, funding ...

Manage Grant Programs and Funding Compliance Provide executive oversight of all federal, state, Tribal, and private grant-funded programs. Ensure compliance with grant requirements, funding ...

Tribal Attorney

Ketchikan, AK · On-site

$134K - $202K/yr

Negotiate contracts in collaboration with senior management. * Provides legal guidance to Tribal Council on state / federal government issues, and works with lobbyists at state and national levels ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Tribal Manager information

See salary details

$29K

$104.6K

$118K

How much do tribal manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for tribal manager in the United States is $104,575.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tribal Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tribal Manager, you need a comprehensive understanding of tribal governance, financial management, and policy development, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in public administration, business, or a related field. Experience with tribal enterprise software, grants management systems, and knowledge of federal and state regulations is often required. Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and interpersonal skills help build consensus and foster positive community relations. These skills are crucial for effectively managing tribal operations, ensuring legal compliance, and advancing the tribe’s goals and interests.

What is the difference between Tribal Manager vs Community Development Coordinator?

AspectTribal ManagerCommunity Development Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in public administration, social sciences, or related fields; experience in tribal governanceOften requires a degree in community development, social work, or related fields; experience in community programs
Work EnvironmentWorks within tribal government offices, community centers, and on tribal landsWorks in community centers, local government offices, and outreach settings
Employer & IndustryTribal governments, Native American organizationsNonprofits, local government agencies, community organizations

The Tribal Manager oversees tribal governance and administrative functions, focusing on tribal policies and programs. In contrast, the Community Development Coordinator concentrates on community outreach, program implementation, and local development initiatives. While both roles involve working closely with communities, the Tribal Manager has a broader administrative scope within tribal governments, whereas the Community Development Coordinator emphasizes community engagement and program delivery.

What are some common challenges faced by Tribal Managers in balancing traditional values with modern administrative practices?

Tribal Managers often navigate the complex task of honoring traditional tribal values while implementing efficient, modern administrative systems. They may encounter challenges when integrating new policies or technologies that must align with tribal customs and governance structures. Effective communication and collaboration with tribal councils, elders, and community members are key to ensuring that administrative changes are both respectful and beneficial. Successful Tribal Managers are adept at building consensus and fostering trust to address these challenges while supporting the tribe’s long-term goals.

What are Tribal Managers?

Tribal Managers are administrative professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a tribal government or organization. They work closely with tribal councils, manage staff, implement policies, and ensure that programs and services are delivered effectively to tribal members. Their duties often include budgeting, strategic planning, grant management, and serving as a liaison between the tribal community and external agencies. Tribal Managers play a crucial role in advancing the goals and interests of their respective tribes.
More about Tribal Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Tribal Manager jobs? Cities with the most Tribal Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tribal jobs? The most popular types of Tribal jobs are:
What states have the most Tribal Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Tribal Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Tribal Manager job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,575 per year, or $50.3 per hour.

Job description

Description

SUMMARY: The Tribal Administrator is responsible for the overall tribal management functions which encompass administration, financial management, supervision of tribal employees, policies and procedures and grant and program management. Dual supervision of the Tribal Administrator is from the Tribal Council and AVCP Tribal Services*. 


*The Tribal Council shall designate a current, active Council member to oversee the work of the Tribal Administrator on a day-to-day basis. Employee oversight includes but is not limited to the establishment of working hours and work station, approving time sheets, approving leave, specifying job tasks within the more general job duties and conducting performance evaluations.


PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES: including the following. Other duties as assigned.


  • Evaluates and addresses the technical assistance and training needs of the Tribe. 
  • Develops and reviews policies and procedures to ensure accountability.
  • Maintains uniformity in the Tribes policies and procedures.
  • Reviews and approves the expenditures of the Tribe to ensure compliance.
  • Coordinates training for the Tribal Council and Staff.
  • Maintains contact with funding agencies and auditors for awarded grants and contracts.
  • Communicates and provides financial reports and feedback to the Tribal Council.
  • Manages Tribal correspondence and communications.
  • Ensures Payroll taxes are filed and paid timely.
  • Representation of Tribe with outside entities.
  • Maintains files, such as project documents, correspondence, accounting and employee records.
  • Assures that reporting requirements of contracts and grants are fulfilled. 
  • Assists in the preparation and completion of revision of budgets.
  • Completes and provides monthly and annual expenditure reports for the Tribe. 
  • Pursues and manages grant funding and contracts for the Tribe.
  • Provides recommendations to the Tribal Council on the terms and conditions of award agreements received from private, state or federal agencies
  • Reviews and monitors the financial reporting as required.
  • Provides the leadership and technical oversight to the Tribe.
  • Works with the Tribal Council to address any financial, grant and/or contract issues and provides any confidential and/or sensitive projects as requested.
  • Supervises the Tribal staff, which includes employee supervision, timekeeping and documentation. 
  • Develops and manages the internal controls and systems for the Tribe.
  • Maintains strict confidentiality.


Requirements

ACCOMMODATION:

The position requires the ability to carry out the noted essential job duties as outlined above. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of Tribal Administrator. 


KNOWLEDGE AND COMPETENCIES:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Must be willing to work flexible hours as needed. Trustworthiness is required.  


Education and/or Experience:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in Public Administration, Accounting, Business or a related field is preferred. High school diploma or GED is required. 

Computer skills proficient to develop and maintain an operating and reporting requirements for all budgeting, reporting and grants as required by federal, state and private entities. Must have a working knowledge of business and financial concepts and perform financial analysis as needed or directed. 


Audit and Financial Proficiency:

Analytical skills; development and completion of all budgetary control, monitoring, reporting and auditing within the awarded grants and budget. 


Supervisory Experience

Direct experience in management of a department or unit of staff; experience in hiring, counseling and evaluating employees. Two (2) years of management experience is preferred. 


Program Management Expertise:

Proven record of development, completion and monitoring of complex policy, program project, administrative and budget plans; independent and programmatic development of program goals; meets project deadlines according to the required timetables.


Grant Expertise:

Knowledge of federal, state and private grants to appropriately manage the Tribe's requirements. Ability to manage oversight of the grants from beginning through audit and review. 


Teamwork: 

Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively within and outside of the Tribe and Tribe Council; exercises tact and diplomacy in working with other agencies. 


Ethics:

Strong adherence to policies and procedures; maintains strict confidentiality.


Judgement:

Demonstrate skills to effectively negotiate, mediate and make decisions; proven record of being detail oriented.


Planning/Organizing: 

Superior written and communication skills; ability to develop, monitor and complete short and long range goals; consistent work in quality improvement; ability to multi-task and shift priorities; effectively develops plans, programs and objectives; effective use of time; personnel, funds for maximum efficiency.


Dependability:

Reports to work timely and consistently. 



CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS: