University of Minnesota invites applications for the position of NAGPRA (Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act) Repatriation and Cultural Items Coordinator. Reporting to the Senior Advisor to the President in the Office of Native American Affairs, the Coordinator will play a pivotal role in facilitating the respectful repatriation of culturally significant items and ancestral remains in accordance with NAGPRA regulations. This position also entails close collaboration with and travel to Indigenous communities to promote dialogue and mutual understanding.

This is a 100%, 12-months, annually renewable appointment for a term of 2 years (with possible extension), in the academic administrative series (classification 9341A1, Administrative Consultant/Analyst 1). 

JOB DUTIES:

80%:

• Manage all aspects of NAGPRA compliance, including documentation, inventory, and repatriation processes.
• Cultivate strong relationships with Indigenous Tribes, Nations, and communities to facilitate repatriation requests and ensure respectful engagement.
• Conduct thorough research to identify cultural items and human remains, respecting cultural sensitivities and protocols.
• Create and maintain a system to inventory cultural items and human remains identified through research. 
• Organize and oversee the repatriation process, including handling logistics, paperwork, and compliance with federal regulations.
• Coordinate repatriation efforts with the University of Minnesotaâ™s Office of General Counsel and the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council as appropriate. 
• Maintain comprehensive records and documentation related to NAGPRA compliance and repatriation efforts.

20%:

• Assist in the development and implementation of educational programs, events, and workshops related to NAGPRA and Indigenous cultural preservation.
• Collaborate with University of Minnesota faculty, researchers, and community partners to advance cultural heritage and Indigenous initiatives.

WORK MODE: 100% remote but will require frequent and extensive travel to the UofM system campuses (Duluth, Morris, Crookston and Rochester)

SALARY RANGE: $72,000 to $85,000.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Anthropology, Native American Studies, or a related field, and 6 years of experience in NAGPRA compliance
• Demonstrated knowledge of NAGPRA regulations, cultural sensitivity protocols and repatriation process 
• Experience working with Indigenous communities, preferably in a repatriation context
• Strong research and documentation skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to communicate sensitive information in a clear and professional manner
• Experience in project management
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment
• Valid drivers license, insurance, and ability to travel across system campuses and Tribal Nations
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Significant experience as a Tribal Historic Preservation Officer
• At least one year of experience working with Tribal Nations or NAGPRA consultations
• Ability to multitask and work with shifting priorities

About University of Minnesota Twin Cities

The University of Minnesota, founded in the belief that all people are enriched by understanding, is dedicated to the advancement of learning and the search for truth; to the sharing of this knowledge through education for a diverse community; and to the application of this knowledge to benefit the people of the state, the nation, and the world.

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