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Tribal Operation Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$120K - $130K/yr

Leadership and Development Manager - Tribal Operations Job Category : Human Resources Requisition Number : LEADE021778 * Posted : September 2, 2026 * Full-Time Locations Showing 1 location SMSC ...

Manager of Payroll and HRIS - Tribal Operations Job Category : Human Resources Requisition Number : MANAG021592 * Posted : August 17, 2026 * Full-Time * On-site Locations Showing 1 location SMSC ...

Tribal Planner

Somerton, AZ · On-site

$47K - $53K/yr

Monitors operations, manages costs, and resolves technical and personnel issues; assures compliance ... Knowledge of Tribal laws, technical standards and procedures, and Federal regulations. • ...

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Tribal Operation Manager information

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$62.5K

$91.4K

$175.5K

How much do tribal operation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for tribal operation manager in the United States is $91,413.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $93,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tribal operation manager?

A Tribal Operations Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing and coordinating the daily operations of a tribal government or organization. Their duties typically include managing staff, ensuring compliance with tribal and federal regulations, developing policies, and overseeing budgets and projects. They work closely with tribal leaders to implement strategic initiatives and support community services. The role requires strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, as well as an understanding of tribal governance and culture.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tribal operation manager?

To thrive as a Tribal Operation Manager, you need strong leadership, organizational, and financial management skills, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field. Familiarity with tribal governance structures, grant management software, and compliance systems is typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and problem-solving abilities help navigate diverse stakeholder needs and foster community trust. These skills ensure effective management of tribal operations, compliance with regulations, and support for community development.

What are some common challenges faced by a tribal operation manager, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Tribal Operation Managers often navigate the unique challenge of balancing tribal sovereignty and cultural values with federal and state regulatory requirements. They may also face resource constraints and the need to coordinate among diverse departments or programs. Success in this role typically involves strong communication skills, cultural competency, and the ability to build consensus among stakeholders. Proactively engaging with tribal leadership and leveraging available training or networking resources can help managers stay informed and effective.

What is the difference between Tribal Operation Manager vs Tribal Program Coordinator?

AspectTribal Operation ManagerTribal Program Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in management, public administration, or related field; experience in tribal operationsUsually requires a bachelor’s degree; experience in program coordination or community outreach
Work EnvironmentOversees tribal departments, manages staff, and ensures operational efficiencySupports program implementation, coordinates activities, and liaises with community members
Employer & Industry UsageTribal governments, agencies, and organizationsTribal governments, non-profits, and community programs

The Tribal Operation Manager focuses on overseeing tribal operations and managing staff, while the Tribal Program Coordinator handles program activities and community engagement. Both roles are essential in tribal administration but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Tribal Operation Manager jobs?

For Tribal Operation Manager jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Tribal Operation Manager job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,413 per year, or $43.9 per hour.

Tribal Operations Project Manager

Auburn, WA • On-site

Muckleshoot Indian Tribe
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees

$106K - $181K/yr

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY
The Tribal Operations Project Manager serves under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer and provides high-level coordination and oversight for tribe-wide operational projects and assignments. This position works independently while representing the CEO's office in meetings, planning discussions, and operational coordination activities across multiple departments and programs.
The role is responsible for tracking project progress, resolving operational barriers, organizing communications, and ensuring assigned work is completed within expected timelines. The position requires strong judgment, professionalism, and the ability to handle sensitive and rapidly changing assignments with limited supervision. This role may require travel between locations, attendance at evening or weekend meetings, and availability outside of normal business hours when operational needs arise. The Tribal Operations Project Manager supports organizational continuity by helping coordinate complex work efforts that impact tribal services, facilities, staff operations, and community member support activities.
MAJOR TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
This list is intended only to illustrate the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or logical assignment to the position.
1. Coordinate and monitor tribe-wide operational projects assigned through the CEO's office.
2. Represent executive leadership during meetings, planning discussions, and operational coordination activities.
3. Prepare written updates, reports, schedules, and project tracking materials for leadership review.
4. Communicate regularly with department leadership regarding project timelines, outstanding items, and operational needs.
5. Conduct follow-up activities to ensure assigned projects continue progressing toward completion.
6. Assist with organizing meetings, operational planning sessions, and cross-department coordination efforts.
7. Review operational processes and recommend improvements that support more efficient daily functions.
8. Travel between facilities and work locations to monitor project activity and operational progress.
9. Respond to urgent operational matters requiring coordination outside standard business hours when necessary.
10. Maintain organized records, project documentation, meeting notes, and status tracking information.
11. Support the CEO's office by handling sensitive assignments requiring professionalism and discretion.
12. Coordinate communication between departments to help reduce delays and improve operational continuity.
13. Participate in evening and weekend meetings, events, or operational activities when required.
14. Provide independent project coordination while working with limited day-to-day supervision.
15. Assist with operational problem solving related to facilities, staffing coordination, and service delivery needs.
16. Because of the Tribe's commitment to community service and the well-being of its members, each employee may be expected to perform a wide range of office and field duties from time to time. Such duties may or may not be related to their regular responsibilities.
EDUCATION - EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING FOR POSITION
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Organizational Leadership, Tribal Administration, or a closely related field.
  • Five (5) years of progressively responsible project coordination or operational management experience is required.
  • Three (3) years of experience supporting executive leadership or coordinating high-level operational assignments.
  • Experience independently managing multiple active projects with limited supervision.

Preferred:
  • Master's degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Organizational Leadership, Tribal Administration, or a closely related field.
  • Experience working in tribal government, public sector operations, or large organizational environments.

SPECIFIC SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES REQUIRED FOR POSITION
Skills:
  • Strong written and verbal communication techniques
  • Professional meeting coordination and presentation practices
  • Advanced organizational and project tracking methods
  • Independent operational problem solving approaches
  • Efficient multi-project coordination and follow-through
  • Confidential document handling and communication practices

Ability:
  • Maintain professionalism during high pressure situations
  • Work independently with limited direct supervision
  • Manage multiple assignments with changing priorities
  • Travel regularly between organizational work locations
  • Communicate clearly with staff and community members
  • Adapt quickly to changing operational conditions

Knowledge:
  • Tribal government operational structures
  • Project coordination and documentation methods
  • Administrative reporting and recordkeeping procedures
  • Organizational communication and meeting practices
  • Professional office software applications
  • Operational workflow coordination practices

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires the ability to remain seated for extended periods while completing computer-based work, attending meetings, and reviewing documentation. Regular standing, walking, bending, and movement between office locations may be required throughout the workday. The position frequently requires verbal communication during meetings, presentations, and operational discussions with staff and community members. Occasional lifting and carrying of office materials, files, laptops, or meeting supplies up to 25 pounds may be required. The role requires the ability to travel between facilities, meeting locations, and operational sites as needed.
Extended workdays may occur during high-priority operational activities, evening meetings, or weekend assignments. Frequent use of computers, phones, printers, and other office equipment is required throughout the day. The position may require sustained concentration while handling multiple assignments, interruptions, and rapidly changing priorities. Visual acuity sufficient to read reports, schedules, and electronic communications is required. The work environment is primarily office-based but may occasionally include visits to operational or field locations.