North Dakota Indian Affairs is looking for their next External Affairs Communication Specialist that will play a key role in advancing respectful, effective communication between Tribal and state partners. North Dakota Indian Affairs serves as a vital resource and partner to the state's five Tribal Nations. The Commission works to promote collaboration, understanding, and opportunities that strengthen Tribal communities and the state as a whole.
What You'll Do
As the External Affairs Communication Specialist, you will serve as a key connector between North Dakota state government and Tribal Nations. In this role, you'll combine strategic communications, cultural coordination, and relationship-building to support respectful engagement, transparent public messaging, and strong intergovernmental partnerships.
Serving in a Public Information Officer (PIO) capacity, you will lead communication efforts across media, digital platforms, and stakeholder engagement while helping ensure alignment between Tribal governments and state agencies.
In This Role, You Will
Strengthen Cultural Coordination & Protocol

• Advise state agencies on appropriate protocols when engaging with Tribal Nations and Native communities.
• Provide guidance and training on cultural competency and effective communication practices.
  

Lead Public Information & Communications

• Develop and deliver clear, accurate, and timely messaging to the public and media.
• Support crisis communication efforts, including message development and media coordination.
  

Manage Website & Digital Presence

• Oversee the agency's website to ensure content is accurate, accessible, and ADA compliant.
• Continuously improve digital content and user experience.
  

Drive Social Media & Marketing Efforts

• Develop and execute social media strategies to increase awareness and engagement.
• Create, manage, and monitor content across platforms, using insights to inform future efforts.
• Assist in developing marketing campaigns, press releases, and promotional materials.
  

Support Events & Outreach

• Assist in planning and executing agency events and partnership initiatives.
• Represent the agency at meetings, public events, and on boards or committees as assigned.
  

Build & Maintain Key Relationships

• Cultivate strong, collaborative relationships with Tribal leaders, government officials, and community partners.
• Partner with state agencies to ensure consistent messaging and coordinated communication efforts.
  

What You'll Bring
To be considered, you must have:

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
• Or four years of working experience in communications, public relations, or a related role.
• Demonstrated understanding of Native American cultures and Tribal government structures.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience managing websites and social media platforms.
  

What Will Set You Apart

• Experience working with Tribal governments, Native communities, and/or government agencies.
• Demonstrated ability in mediation, conflict resolution, and facilitation.
• Deep cultural competency and respect for Native cultures, traditions, and Tribal governance.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively across agencies and with Tribal partners.
  

The Extras

• This position does require traveling throughout the state visiting with tribes and tribal leaders.
• This position plays a highly visible role representing the agency and requires professionalism, discretion, and strong interpersonal skills.
  

Compensation & Location

• Work Style: Onsite at the Capitol Complex in Bismarck
• Shift: Monday-Friday with flexible day-time schedule options.
• Hiring Range: $4000-$4400/month; depending on experience.
  

Ready to Apply?

• Submit your application and resume at www.nd.gov/careers by 11:59 PM on the closing date.
• Include details on how your background aligns with the role in your resume.
• A criminal background check is required for the selected candidate.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. (No visa sponsorships provided.)
  

Questions or Accommodations?
Contact Jill Mugaas, HR Business Partner
jemugaas@nd.gov | (701) 328-4743
For tech issues, contact recruiter@nd.gov | (701) 328-3290
About Team ND
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Equal Employment Opportunity
The State of North Dakota and this hiring agency do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), genetics, religion, age or disability in employment or the provisions of services and complies with the provisions of the North Dakota Human Rights Act.
As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. Sect. 23-12-10.