Director of Indigenous Programs

Position: Director of Indigenous Programs

Department: Yale Center for Environmental Justice

Location: New Haven, CT/Hybrid

Position Type: Part-time

About the Yale Center for Environmental Justice: The Yale Center for Environmental Justice (YCEJ) works with partners across Yale and in communities around the world to remedy the key drivers of injustice while co-creating generative solutions for a more just and sustainable world.

Position Overview: The Director of Indigenous Programs will lead YCEJ’s efforts to engage with, understand, and address the unique environmental justice challenges faced by Indigenous communities. This role requires someone with a deep respect for and knowledge of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and environmental challenges. The successful candidate will liaise with Indigenous communities, scholars, and leaders to develop, implement, and evaluate initiatives that further the mission of the YCEJ. The position is part-time with the possibility of conversion to full-time within the year.

Compensation: This position is part-time (see above). Compensation commensurate with experience.

Apply: Applications being considered immediately and on a rolling basis.Please send a resume, cover letter, and, if possible, two references to kristin.barendregt-ludwig@yale.edu  with the words “[IP JOB}” in the subject line. References will not be checked prior to you being contacted.

Principal Responsibilities

  1. Strategic Leadership: Develop and oversee Indigenous programs in line with YCEJ’s strategic vision, ensuring alignment with the broader goals of the center.

  2. Research and Scholarship: Collaborate with Indigenous communities and scholars to conduct and promote research on environmental justice issues specific to Indigenous communities

  3. Teach classes and/or conduct workshops in area(s) of expertise

  4. Community Engagement: Build and strengthen partnerships with Indigenous communities, leaders, and organizations, fostering mutual respect and collaboration.

  5. Program Development: Design and implement educational, research, and outreach programs that address the environmental challenges of Indigenous communities.

  6. Advocacy: Represent the YCEJ in discussions with policymakers, scholars, and the general public, advocating for Indigenous rights and environmental justice.

  7. Resource Management: Secure funding for Indigenous programs, manage program budgets, and ensure the allocation of resources in line with strategic objectives.

  8. Team Management: Build, lead and mentor a team, fostering an inclusive and culturally respectful working environment.

  9. Continuous Learning: Stay updated on Indigenous environmental justice issues, challenges, and opportunities to ensure the relevancy of the center’s programs.

Required Education and Experience

Qualifications:

  1. Advanced degree in Law, Environmental Studies, Indigenous Studies, Public Policy, or a related field.

  2. Minimum of 10 years of experience working with or within Indigenous communities, with a focus on environmental justice, community engagement, or related fields.

  3. Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contemporary issues.

  4. Proven track record of successful program development and implementation.

  5. Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.

  6. Ability to navigate academic, policy, and community spaces with cultural sensitivity and respect.

Preferred:

  1. Experience securing and managing grants or other funding sources.

  2. Experience in tribal co-management

  3. Proficiency in one or more Indigenous languages.

  4. First hand knowledge and experience understanding Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contemporary issues.

People and Partners