Jobs · Management · New Mexico

Director of Native American Program - Attorney

New Mexico Legal Aid · Bernalillo, NM · 1 mo ago
Management$100k–$115k/yrFull-time

Overview

New Mexico Legal Aid (NMLA) provides civil legal services to low-income New Mexicans, focusing on areas such as domestic violence/family law, consumer protection, housing, and benefits. The Native American Program (NAP) serves low-income Native Americans living on or near the 19 Pueblos and the Mescalero Apache community.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the overall vision, strategy, and operations of the Native American Program.

  • Assess emerging legal needs and develop responsive services and outreach initiatives.

  • Identify and pursue opportunities to strengthen and expand the program through partnerships, special projects, and funding opportunities.

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with Pueblo governments, tribal courts, and community partners.

  • Supervise approximately 5-7 staff members and oversee casework and advocacy strategies.

  • Ensure high-quality legal representation and compliance with program requirements.

  • Support litigation, impact advocacy, and systemic reform efforts.

  • Represent NMLA within tribal communities and professional organizations.

  • Lead community education and outreach initiatives.

  • Strengthen partnerships that expand access to justice.

  • Serve as a member of NMLA's management team.

  • Collaborate with statewide leadership on strategic initiatives, technology, communications, and operational planning.

Qualifications

  • J.D. and ability to practice law in New Mexico.

  • Minimum five years of legal practice experience.

  • Demonstrated experience working with Native American communities, tribal governments, tribal courts, or tribal legal issues.

  • Demonstrated leadership, project management, or supervisory experience.

  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience practicing in tribal courts.

  • Experience supervising attorneys or legal teams.

  • Pueblo community experience.

  • Grant management or program development experience.

  • Keres or other Native American language proficiency.

Company Benefits

  • 100% employer-paid BCBS medical, plus dental and vision for employees

  • Generous employer contributions toward dependent coverage

  • Paid time off includes annual leave (starting at 3 weeks/year), 6 days personal time, 15 holidays, sick leave, and more

  • Sabbatical program eligibility

  • Hybrid work schedule (3 days in office, 2 days remote each week).

  • Full-time 37.5-hour work week

  • 403(b) Retirement Plan with employer contributions and matching

  • Meaningful mission-driven work serving New Mexico communities

Pay

$100,000 - $115,000/year, depending on experience.

Application Information

Applications reviewed on a rolling basis. Applicants must submit a current resume, three references, and a cover letter that explains their interest in this position and the mission of NMLA. Applicants will be subject to a background search. For more information, click here.

Similar jobs