CCDF Staff Attorney

JOB SUMMARY: Under the supervision of the ITCN CCDF Program Director, the Staff Attorney is responsible for providing legal and regulatory support to the Inter-Tribal Council of Nevada’s Child Care Development Fund (ITCN CCDF) Program. The attorney ensures compliance with federal and tribal laws, strengthens tribal governance capacity in child care administration, and advances the principles of tribal sovereignty and self-determination within the ITCN Bylaws and CCDF framework.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provides a full range of legal services on behalf of ITCN’s CCDF program.
• Provide legal analysis and interpretation of regulations, guidance, and related federal, state, and tribal laws.
• Draft, review, and revise related policies, procedures, contracts, and intergovernmental agreements.
• Advise leadership and tribal administrators on compliance, program operations, and legal risk management.
• Support tribes in developing or updating child care codes and program governance documents
• Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda on topics related to federal Indian law, administrative law, and child care policy.
• Develop and deliver trainings and technical assistance to program and tribal staff on legal and compliance matters.
• Review and advise on fiscal, procurement, and data-sharing agreements to ensure compliance with grant and legal standards.
• Coordinate with federal and state agencies on CCDF compliance.
• Stay current on changes in laws and policies affecting tribal child care programs and recommend necessary updates.
• Attend conferences, training programs, and continuing legal education courses to maintain licensure, professional competence, and knowledge of emerging issues in Tribal law.
• Support program’s mission by providing legal expertise and advice on related initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an American Bar Association accredited law school.
• Applicants must be licensed to practice in Nevada.
• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in federal Indian law, administrative law, or related public interest practice.
• Must be able to travel as needed.

ADDITIONAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Comprehensive understanding of Tribal sovereignty, jurisdiction, and federal Indian law.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas: contract law, employment law, administrative law, gaming law and regulation, cultural resources protection, economic development, and environmental and natural resources law.
• Protect and enhance member Tribes’ sovereignty, jurisdiction, and inherent authority.
• Strong understanding and sensitivity to Native American culture, history, and lifestyle, while working effectively with tribal populations.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, paired with tribal cultural sensitivity.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with management, coworkers, and outside contacts.
• Capacity to manage multiple priorities and tasks concurrently and meet deadlines.
• Aptitude to work collaboratively with tribal leaders, program administrators, and federal partners.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES

The physical demands described herein are represented of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The employee is regularly required to:

Frequent bending/stooping; reaching above shoulder level and crouching as well as occasional push/pulling. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally. 10% of time spend standing, 20% of time walking, and 70% of time spent sitting. Must have average hearing and visual acuity. Is required to use a phone and operate vehicles and have manual dexterity for keyboard and report writing. May require some exposure to anti-bacterial chemicals. May be exposed to fumes/dust, wet/damp surfaces when bringing equipment in and out, and exposure to hot/cold temperatures. May also be exposed to uneven terrain when carrying equipment. May be exposed to noise from clients and children crying and yelling in the clinic.

EXCEPTIONAL BENEFITS PACKAGE:

ITCN is proud to offer a competitive and generous benefits package that reflects our commitment to work-life balance and employee well-being:

• 15 paid holidays per year
• Annual leave (vacation)
• Paid sick leave
• 100% employer-paid health insurance coverage, including: medical, dental & vision
• 401(k) retirement plan with 4% employer match
• Additional professional development and training opportunities

Cultural Statement:

The Inter-Tribal Council of Nevada (ITCN) acknowledges and honors the sovereign rights, cultural values, and lived experiences of the 28 tribal nations we serve. Workforce programs are grounded in respect for Native knowledge systems and the unique historical and social context of Indigenous peoples. ITCN believes that culturally relevant workforce strategies strengthen community well-being and help restore Indigenous self-sufficiency. The Program Director will embrace and uplift these values while fostering opportunity and empowerment for Native people.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

The Inter-Tribal Council of Nevada is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status.

As an organization committed to serving tribal communities across Nevada, ITCN strongly encourages qualified Native American applicants to apply.