Job Details
Tribal Relations Director (WMS Band 3)
2026-03-19 State of Washington all cities,AK
Description:
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.
In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:
Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.
WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the recruiter listed.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Amanda Strebeck, at . Please be sure to reference Tribal Relations Director #0W241 in the subject line.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
Which statement best describes your experience working with tribal governments and communities?
02
Please briefly describe your experience working with tribal governments and communities. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
03
Which statement best describes your experience facilitating complex issues across cultural or government differences?
04
Which statement best describes your knowledge of tribal law and policy?
05
Which statement best describes your experience applying transportation knowledge in tribal contexts?
06
Please briefly describe your experience applying transportation knowledge in tribal contexts. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
07
Which statement best describes your experience conducting tribal consultations and following policy guidance?
08
Which statement best describes your experience supervising staff or leading teams?
09
Please briefly describe your experience supervising staff or leading teams. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
10
Which statement best describes your experience communicating complex legal, policy, or technical information?
11
Which statement best describes your experience facilitating meetings or negotiating sensitive issues?
12
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
13
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question
Salary : $114,504.00 - $146,784.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-0W241
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 03/16/2026
Closing Date: 3/29/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence! Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is seeking a dynamic, people-focused Tribal Relations Director to join our team in Olympia, WA. This strategic leadership role is responsible for shaping and advancing the agency's vision and approach for tribal engagement. The Tribal Relations Director provides expert guidance on tribal policy, facilitates meaningful consultation, and ensures WSDOT meets its obligations under federal and state law. In this role, you will lead efforts to harmonize agency rules, policies, and priorities with the interests of federally recognized tribes, neighboring state tribes, and relevant legal frameworks, including federal treaties, executive orders, environmental regulations, and natural, cultural, and archaeological resource management. You will advise and consult with agency staff, provide training, and set clear expectations for effective tribal engagement across all WSDOT programs.
The Tribal Relations Director also plays a critical role in resolving complex disputes and cross-jurisdictional issues involving tribal governments, local and federal agencies, and WSDOT programs ensuring collaboration, compliance, and respect for tribal priorities and treaty rights. If you are passionate about fostering strong government-to-government relationships and advancing meaningful tribal engagement, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact at WSDOT.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Tribal Relations Director will:
- Respond to issues of treaty rights, cross border and jurisdictional issues with the 29 in-state federally recognized tribes, bordering states' tribes, and related federal agencies.
- Ensure executive government-to-government communication in compliance with the Centennial Accord and related intergovernmental agreements and the agency's responsibilities
- Lead management efforts with regard to tribal policy identification, development and implementation, and both short term and long-term strategies for promoting cooperation and avoiding conflicts.
- Consider impacts to tribes, identifying potential risk or harm to WSDOT projects and tribal communities near project sites, and identifying opportunities for collaboration with meaningful engagement with tribal governments.
- Lead government-to-government consultation with tribes.
- Develop tribal policy guidance, templates, and agreements.
- Advise executives and project teams on tribal engagement.
- Facilitate resolution of tribal project concerns and conflicts.
- Ensure inclusion of tribal considerations in agency plans and manuals.
- Train WSDOT staff in tribal relations and best practices.
- Ensure consistency across WSDOT regions and programs in tribal relations through dotted line supervision with regional and program tribal liaisons.
- Represent WSDOT on tribal transportation committees and conferences
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
- Equity, Inclusion & Culturally Responsive Engagement: Demonstrated ability to contribute to and sustain a respectful, inclusive, and culturally responsive work environment that supports equal opportunity and fosters collaboration among diverse stakeholders.
- Tribal Government & Community Engagement: Demonstrated ability to work effectively with tribal governments and communities, including understanding tribal sovereignty, governance structures, intergovernmental relationships, and culturally grounded decision-making processes.
- Conflict Resolution & Cultural Competence: Demonstrated ability to facilitate complex issues arising from cultural differences, varying government structures, and competing priorities, maintaining respectful, constructive dialogue and achieving productive outcomes.
- Tribal Law & Policy Expertise: Demonstrated expertise in tribal treaties, federal Indian law, tribal case law, federal policies affecting tribes, and the historical and contemporary context shaping tribal-state relations.
- Transportation Policy & Program Knowledge: Demonstrated ability to apply knowledge of transportation programs, funding mechanisms, and relevant federal and state laws in support of tribal governments and tribal transportation priorities.
- Consultation & Policy Compliance: Demonstrated ability to follow and implement Governor-approved best practices for tribal consultation, agency operating procedures, and applicable programmatic agreements, ensuring consistent and legally compliant engagement.
- Leadership & Team Management: Demonstrated ability to supervise staff and lead teams effectively, including setting clear expectations, coordinating work, fostering collaboration, supporting professional development, and guiding performance.
- Communication & Translation of Complex Information: Demonstrated ability to translate complex legal, policy, and technical information into clear, audience-appropriate written and verbal communications for tribal, state, federal, and public stakeholders.
- Facilitation & Negotiation: Demonstrated ability to plan, facilitate, and negotiate meetings and discussions on sensitive or high-profile issues involving tribal, state, and federal interests, ensuring equitable participation and constructive outcomes.
- Independent Work & Performance Under Pressure: Demonstrated ability to work independently and effectively in fast-paced, high-stress environments, managing multiple competing deadlines and priorities with accuracy and accountability.
- Planning, Organization & Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and collaborate across divisions and with external partners to advance shared objectives, particularly in complex, multi-stakeholder, deadline-driven environments.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
- Tribal Transportation Engagement: Demonstrated experience collaborating directly with tribal governments on transportation planning, programming, or funding initiatives. Ability to integrate tribal priorities and perspectives into transportation decision-making while ensuring compliance with applicable laws, treaties, and policies.
- Relationship Building & Credibility: Demonstrated ability to establish credibility, build trust, and maintain effective, professional relationships with tribal governments, community partners, and other government entities. Ability to foster collaboration, facilitate productive dialogue, and navigate complex stakeholder dynamics.
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the "Contact Us" section of this posting.
- In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable . Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code.
- WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit .
- Work-Life Balance - We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
- Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
- Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
- Plan For Your Future - WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to for more information.
How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.
In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:
- An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
- An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
- Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.
Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.
WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the recruiter listed.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Amanda Strebeck, at . Please be sure to reference Tribal Relations Director #0W241 in the subject line.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
Which statement best describes your experience working with tribal governments and communities?
- I have extensive experience leading initiatives with tribal governments, understanding tribal sovereignty, governance structures, intergovernmental relationships, and integrating culturally grounded decision-making into agency programs.
- I have substantial experience collaborating with tribal governments, supporting programs or projects while considering tribal governance and decision-making structures.
- I have some experience working with tribal governments, assisting on projects or programs under supervision.
- I have limited or no experience working directly with tribal governments or communities.
02
Please briefly describe your experience working with tribal governments and communities. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
03
Which statement best describes your experience facilitating complex issues across cultural or government differences?
- I regularly lead discussions and resolve conflicts arising from cultural differences, varying government structures, or competing priorities, maintaining respectful, productive dialogue and achieving effective outcomes.
- I have experience mediating conflicts or facilitating discussions in culturally or structurally complex situations under guidance.
- I have assisted in facilitating discussions or resolving conflicts with limited independence.
- I have little or no experience managing conflicts involving cultural or governmental differences.
04
Which statement best describes your knowledge of tribal law and policy?
- I have expert-level knowledge of tribal treaties, federal Indian law, tribal case law, federal policies affecting tribes, and historical and contemporary tribal-state relations, and I apply this expertise regularly in decision-making.
- I have substantial knowledge of tribal law and policies, and I apply this knowledge to support programs or initiatives.
- I have basic knowledge of tribal law or policies and can apply it with guidance.
- I have limited or no knowledge of tribal law, treaties, or policies.
05
Which statement best describes your experience applying transportation knowledge in tribal contexts?
- I have extensive experience applying transportation programs, funding mechanisms, and relevant laws to support tribal governments and tribal transportation priorities independently.
- I have moderate experience applying transportation programs or funding to projects involving tribes.
- I have limited experience supporting transportation projects with tribal involvement.
- I have little or no experience working with transportation programs in tribal contexts.
06
Please briefly describe your experience applying transportation knowledge in tribal contexts. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
07
Which statement best describes your experience conducting tribal consultations and following policy guidance?
- I consistently plan and implement tribal consultation processes in accordance with Governor-approved best practices, agency procedures, and programmatic agreements.
- I have regular experience assisting with tribal consultation processes while adhering to agency policies.
- I have limited experience supporting consultation activities under supervision.
- I have no experience conducting tribal consultations or following consultation policies.
08
Which statement best describes your experience supervising staff or leading teams?
- I have extensive experience supervising staff, setting expectations, coordinating work, fostering collaboration, and supporting professional development.
- I have moderate experience leading teams or projects, providing guidance and support to staff.
- I have limited experience supporting team leadership or supervision.
- I have no experience supervising staff or leading teams.
09
Please briefly describe your experience supervising staff or leading teams. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
10
Which statement best describes your experience communicating complex legal, policy, or technical information?
- I regularly translate complex information into clear, audience-appropriate communications for tribal, state, federal, and public stakeholders in both written and verbal formats.
- I have experience preparing and delivering communications on technical or policy topics for stakeholders.
- I have limited experience communicating complex information with guidance.
- I have little or no experience communicating complex technical or policy information.
11
Which statement best describes your experience facilitating meetings or negotiating sensitive issues?
- I regularly facilitate and negotiate meetings or discussions on high-profile or sensitive issues involving tribal, state, and federal stakeholders, achieving constructive and equitable outcomes.
- I have experience facilitating or negotiating discussions under supervision.
- I have limited experience supporting facilitation or negotiation.
- I have no experience facilitating meetings or negotiating sensitive issues.
12
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
- Indeed
- Direct Email Notification
- WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
- Career Fair
- Monster
- WorkSource
- AASHTO
- NACTO
- COMTO
- APWA
- "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
- Radio advertisement
- WSDOT Employment Site
- Careers.wa.gov
- governmentjobs.com
- Other (specify below)
13
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question