Indian Child Welfare (ICWA) Advocate
Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake, Lakeport, CA, United States
Serve Native Children. Support Families. Uphold Tribal Sovereignty.
The Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake is seeking a compassionate and dedicated
Indian Child Welfare (ICWA) Advocate
to support Tribal children and families involved in child welfare matters. This role is ideal for a human services professional who values cultural connection, family preservation, and meaningful community impact.
The Tribe
will provide ICWA‑specific training and ongoing support , making this an excellent opportunity for someone with child welfare or family services experience who is ready to grow into ICWA advocacy work.
Position Summary Reporting to the Health and Human Services Administrator, the ICWA Advocate works collaboratively with families, Tribal departments, courts, and partner agencies to safeguard the health, safety, and well‑being of children of the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake Tribal Members. The ICWA Advocate provides culturally appropriate family advocacy, case management, and coordination of services.
Key Responsibilities
Ensure compliance with the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) in collaboration with Tribal, county, state, and federal partners.
Provide case management services, including intake, assessments, crisis response, safety planning, referrals, and case monitoring.
Develop culturally appropriate case plans that support the best interests of children and families.
Represent the Tribe in court proceedings; attend hearings; prepare documentation, reports, and recommendations.
Coordinate safe child placements in compliance with ICWA placement preferences and Tribal policy.
Advocate for the Tribe with the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and assist with federal reporting and grant requirements.
Maintain accurate, confidential case files and professional correspondence.
Transport children and provide after‑hours and weekend response for intake or crisis situations as required.
Qualifications Required:
Associate’s Degree in Human Services, Criminal Justice, Behavioral Science, Social Science, or a related field.
Minimum of three (3) years of experience in a human services–related field (child welfare, family services, behavioral health, or similar).
Completion of a California‑approved 40‑hour Domestic Violence training, or ability to complete within six (6) months of hire.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
Ability to pass background checks, including Live Scan fingerprinting, drug screening, and execution of a confidentiality agreement.
Preferred:
Bachelor’s Degree in a Human Services–related field.
Experience working with Native American communities or Tribal programs.
ICWA Experience Direct ICWA experience is
preferred but not required . The Tribe will provide
ICWA training and ongoing mentorship
to support success in this role.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of or willingness to learn ICWA, Tribal law, and Native American culture and customs.
Understanding of historical trauma and trauma‑informed care.
Strong communication, organization, and case management skills.
Ability to work respectfully and effectively with families during high‑stress situations.
Sound judgment, confidentiality, and professionalism.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Zoom, and standard office technology.
Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and emergencies.
Physical Requirements
Prolonged periods of seated computer work with regular standing and walking.
Move and transport equipment up to 15 pounds.
Vision requirements include close, distance, and peripheral vision.
About the Tribe The Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake
is a federally recognized sovereign nation committed to the well‑being of our Tribal Members and families. We work to preserve Pomo culture, revitalize language, and build a strong, self‑sufficient future through service, collaboration, and respect for our community and neighbors.
Indian Preference Indian preference applies in accordance with applicable federal laws and regulations. Applicants claiming Indian preference must submit verification of eligibility with their application.
Join us in protecting Native children, strengthening families, and honoring Tribal sovereignty.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
The Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake is seeking a compassionate and dedicated
Indian Child Welfare (ICWA) Advocate
to support Tribal children and families involved in child welfare matters. This role is ideal for a human services professional who values cultural connection, family preservation, and meaningful community impact.
The Tribe
will provide ICWA‑specific training and ongoing support , making this an excellent opportunity for someone with child welfare or family services experience who is ready to grow into ICWA advocacy work.
Position Summary Reporting to the Health and Human Services Administrator, the ICWA Advocate works collaboratively with families, Tribal departments, courts, and partner agencies to safeguard the health, safety, and well‑being of children of the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake Tribal Members. The ICWA Advocate provides culturally appropriate family advocacy, case management, and coordination of services.
Key Responsibilities
Ensure compliance with the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) in collaboration with Tribal, county, state, and federal partners.
Provide case management services, including intake, assessments, crisis response, safety planning, referrals, and case monitoring.
Develop culturally appropriate case plans that support the best interests of children and families.
Represent the Tribe in court proceedings; attend hearings; prepare documentation, reports, and recommendations.
Coordinate safe child placements in compliance with ICWA placement preferences and Tribal policy.
Advocate for the Tribe with the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and assist with federal reporting and grant requirements.
Maintain accurate, confidential case files and professional correspondence.
Transport children and provide after‑hours and weekend response for intake or crisis situations as required.
Qualifications Required:
Associate’s Degree in Human Services, Criminal Justice, Behavioral Science, Social Science, or a related field.
Minimum of three (3) years of experience in a human services–related field (child welfare, family services, behavioral health, or similar).
Completion of a California‑approved 40‑hour Domestic Violence training, or ability to complete within six (6) months of hire.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
Ability to pass background checks, including Live Scan fingerprinting, drug screening, and execution of a confidentiality agreement.
Preferred:
Bachelor’s Degree in a Human Services–related field.
Experience working with Native American communities or Tribal programs.
ICWA Experience Direct ICWA experience is
preferred but not required . The Tribe will provide
ICWA training and ongoing mentorship
to support success in this role.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of or willingness to learn ICWA, Tribal law, and Native American culture and customs.
Understanding of historical trauma and trauma‑informed care.
Strong communication, organization, and case management skills.
Ability to work respectfully and effectively with families during high‑stress situations.
Sound judgment, confidentiality, and professionalism.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Zoom, and standard office technology.
Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and emergencies.
Physical Requirements
Prolonged periods of seated computer work with regular standing and walking.
Move and transport equipment up to 15 pounds.
Vision requirements include close, distance, and peripheral vision.
About the Tribe The Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake
is a federally recognized sovereign nation committed to the well‑being of our Tribal Members and families. We work to preserve Pomo culture, revitalize language, and build a strong, self‑sufficient future through service, collaboration, and respect for our community and neighbors.
Indian Preference Indian preference applies in accordance with applicable federal laws and regulations. Applicants claiming Indian preference must submit verification of eligibility with their application.
Join us in protecting Native children, strengthening families, and honoring Tribal sovereignty.
#J-18808-Ljbffr