Welcome to Wakan Tipi Awanyankapi! We are looking for an exceptional leader who is eager to join our team as the Director of Operations.

Formerly known as Lower Phalen Creek Project, Wakan Tipi Awanyankapi is a Native-Led, East Side environmental stewardship nonprofit centered in Dakota values. Our name means “those who take care of Wakan Tipi”. Founded in 1997 by community activists, our project area stretches from Lake Phalen to the Mississippi River and throughout the East Side River District. Our work is powered by a dedicated board, staff, and community of volunteers.  

What Makes Us Special:

1. All of our work —at Wakáŋ Tipi / Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary, and throughout the East Side —takes place on Dakota land. It is our duty to honor and care for this land with the perspectives, language, and culture of Dakota people at the forefront of our work. To this end, we host a variety of programs that reinforce the relationships Indigenous people have with these spaces, including Dakota Storytelling, Plant Medicine Workshops, and Medicine Bundle making.
2. We rely on a growing network of Native and non-Native knowledge-keepers with a passion for sharing their expertise.
3. We work with artists, ecologists, Tribal Nations, and many other loving community members who share their cultural and traditional ecological knowledge to help us share these teachings with our community.

What Does the Director of Operations Do:

The Director of Operations oversees and manages the organization’s human resources and administrative operations. Key responsibilities include supervising external vendors handling payroll, benefits, and some HR services, as well as managing the organization's physical and technological infrastructure. The role also supports the Board of Directors and ensures the organization complies with current laws and policies. This position is crucial for maintaining smooth and efficient daily operations.

Operations Leadership:

1. Supervise, coach, and provide direction to the Administrative Specialist.
2. Oversee IT services provider, budget and plan for IT contracted services.
3. Oversee organization’s risk management, physical infrastructure, compliance, and system maintenance.
4. Support Board of Directors and Committees of the Board.

Human Resources Leadership:

1. Develop and implement a plan for contracted HR services; oversee and coordinate with HR services provider.
2. Oversee hiring, recruitment, and onboarding/offboarding procedures; ongoing employee training program(s); and performance review design and implementation.

What Are We Looking For:

1. 3+ years of experience in leadership-level positions in operations, human resources, finance, or related departments.
2. Experience in the non-profit and public sector.
3. Experience working with or in American Indian communities.
4. Personal integrity and transparency, serving as a role model for others.
5. Belief in the values of Dakota Wicohan, the Dakota Way of Life: Respect, Compassion, Generosity, Dependability, and Courage.
6. Eagerness to join a vibrant and bold Native-led nonprofit team.
7. Enthusiasm to champion the work and mission of Wakan Tipi Awanyankapi.
8. Possesses a values-centered approach to building and maintaining systems for human resources, operations, and facilities.
9. Detail-oriented and adaptive.
10. Able to think strategically about organizational growth and sustainability.
11. Able to prioritize and meet tight deadlines for grant opportunities as they arise.
12. Collaborative and respectful in working across teams.
13. Enjoy problem-solving and engaging with others in collaborative solutions.
14. Excellent time management and prioritization skills.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills:

1. Bachelor’s degree in business administration, human resources, nonprofit management, or related field.
2. HR certification or education (SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, SPHR)

What We Offer:

1. This position is a full-time, salaried position located in St. Paul, MN. Hybrid work options available.
2. Expected salary range is: $80,000-$90-000 depending on qualifications and experience.
3. Benefits include health, dental, 401k, and generous PTO package.

Application Process:

1. Application Deadline: June 30, 2024 (11:30 PM)
2. Expected Interview Window: July 8-15, 2024
3. Goal Start Date: August 12, 2024

We are working with MinneHR Insights for our hiring process. To apply, please send cover letter and resume via email to Amanda Achterkirch at amanda@mhrinsights.com using the subject line: Director of Operations.

Commitment to our Community: Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may come from a less traditional background. We would encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our qualifications described.

Wakan Tipi Awanyankapi is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against or give preference to any person because of race, color, creed, religion, age, gender, national origin, disability, ancestry, sexual orientation, familial status, public assistance, local human rights commission activity or any other discriminatory basis prohibited by state or federal law.