Tribal Relations Manager

Full Job Description

Tacoma Public Utilities is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Tribal Relations Manager to strategically guide and strengthen our relationships with Tribal governments and communities throughout the Pacific Northwest. This role is central to ensuring that TPU’s operations and initiatives are conducted with respect for Tribal sovereignty, cultural values, and natural resources.

The Tribal Relations Manager serves as a key advisor, relationship builder, and internal resource—supporting TPU in fostering meaningful, collaborative, and sustained partnerships with Tribal nations.

This position will be based primarily at the Tacoma Public Utilities office in Tacoma, WA. With TPU-owned facilities located across Pierce, King, Mason, Thurston, Grays Harbor, and Lewis Counties, this role also includes regular travel throughout the region to support and engage with Tribal partners and communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, refine, and implement TPU’s Tribal Relations strategy, including outreach, consultation, and partnership-building with Tribal governments and communities.
• Provide expert guidance to senior leadership and internal departments on Tribal sovereignty, treaty rights, government-to-government protocols, and culturally appropriate engagement practices.
• Guide and advise on complex matters involving traditional cultural properties, natural resource management, and federal agency processes — including FERC hydropower relicensing and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operations.
• Build and maintain strong, respectful relationships with Tribal councils, elected leaders, Tribal staff, and community representatives through regular, in-person engagement and ongoing communication.
• Support TPU project teams in planning and executing effective Tribal consultation and coordination efforts.
• Collaborate closely with internal TPU teams and the City of Tacoma General Government to ensure alignment and consistency in Tribal engagement activities.
• Promote awareness and understanding of Tribal history, governance, and cultural considerations across the organization.

Requirements

Minimum Education*
Bachelor's degree in business or public administration, public policy, political science, communication or directly related field

Minimum Experience*
4 years of governmental relations experience, including 1 year prior at senior, lead or supervisory level

*Relevant education and experience may substitute for one another on a year-for-year basis

Desired Qualifications
Experience working with Tribal governments and communities, including building and maintaining respectful, collaborative relationships.

Licensing, Certifications and Other Requirements
Washington State Driver's License

Additional Information

City of Tacoma Commitment to Diversity and InclusionTacoma's diversity is its greatest asset. Tacoma embraces its multi-cultural and multi-ethnic character.

Communities of color and immigrant communities are fundamental to Tacoma's entrepreneurial spirit, workforce, and long-term success.

In Tacoma, equity and empowerment are top priorities, meaning that all Tacoma residents must have equitable opportunities to reach their full potential and share in the benefits of community progress.

One of our goals is for the City of Tacoma workforce to reflect the community it serves.

We actively work to eliminate racial and other disparities and welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds and/or multicultural skill sets and experiences.

Our goal is for Tacoma to be an inclusive and equitable place to live, work, and play.The City of Tacoma is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workplace.

Applicants are considered for positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital or veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, and local laws.

Apply
Interested individuals should apply online by completing the application and attaching a resume and cover letter by the closing date and time listed on the job announcement. Applications received without attaching the required materials may not progress in the selection process.

Compensation & BenefitsPay Details:Hourly Rate: $63.10- $88.85Annual Salary: $131,248.00- $184,808.00Employee Benefits | City of TacomaGet AssistanceFor assistance with the application process or questions regarding this job announcement please contact the Human Resources office at (253) 591-5400 by 4:00 p.m.

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