Staff Attorney I-OLC

Staff Attorney I

Office of Legal Counsel

Hourly Wage: $50.83/Regular/Full-Time

Serves as legal counsel to the Yakama Nation Tribal Council and the Yakama Nation government, including all departments and programs. Representation includes assisting Lead Attorney, Staff Attorney IIIs, and Staff Attorney IIs to appear before tribal, state and federal courts, and other adjudicatory bodies. Services encompass many different subject matters without specialization in any particular field other than Federal Indian law. Dependent upon supervisory approval and the current office needs, this position may be suitable for flexible working hours.

Examples of Work Performed:

Provides a full range of legal services as needed by the Yakama Nation Tribal Council, and government programs and departments, including: Conducting legal research and delivering written legal advice on questions related to federal, state and tribal law, the Treaty of 1855 and Tribal Sovereignty. Reviewing and drafting legal instruments, including agreements and contracts. Analyzing recent developments in Indian law and reviewing findings to determine impacts on the Yakama Nation. Assisting with preparations for government-to-government consultations and presentations.  Drafting memos, comment letters, resolutions, committee actions, tribal codes and internal policies.

As assigned, serves as co-counsel on behalf of the Yakama Nation in tribal, federal and state courts, and other adjudicatory bodies, and participates in the drafting of relevant pleadings and legal briefs.

Performs any and all other related duties as assigned by the Lead Attorney, Staff Attorney IIIs, and Staff Attorney IIs, or any Tribal Council Committee.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of Indian law, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, federal/state statutes and regulations, case law, executive orders, and civil procedures.

Ability to exercise advanced verbal and written communication skills.

Ability to research, formulate, and present legal issues, ideas and arguments.

Ability to prioritize, organize, and manage a workload in a diligent and productive manner.

Proficiency in standard office knowledge and skill in the use of Apple computers and assorted software, including Word, Excel, Adobe, Lexis Nexis, Zoom.

Minimum Requirements:

Graduate of an accredited law school.

Demonstrated interest in Federal Indian law or related fields.

Admission in good standing to the Washington State Bar (or ability to acquire admission within first year of employment).

Submission of cover letter, updated resume, legal writing sample(s) and law school transcript.

Required to pass a pre-employment background check.

Required to pass a pre-employment drug test.

Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's License with the ability to obtain a Tribal Driver Permit with Defensive Driving Course certificate (to be updated every 2 years) or ability to obtain a Washington State Driver's License and Tribal Driving Permit within 30 days of hire).

Preferred Requirements:

One to two years as a practicing attorney, preferably in Indian law (relevant experience may be considered if combined with specialized knowledge).

Yakama enrolled preference, but all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.