Climate Ambassador

BACKGROUND

The Climate Ambassador works within the Environmental Protection Division (EPD) of the Tribal Historic and Cultural Preservation Department (THCPD) to ensure the preservation, protection, and management of the natural environment and homelands of the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians (FTBMI). Under the direct supervision of the Division Manager and in collaboration with the project team, the Climate Ambassador is responsible for deploying and coordinating programs related to community outreach and engagement; primarily within the Antelope Valley area. Climate Ambassadors interact with residents throughout the FTBMI territory, providing information about climate-related services and programs, answering questions, resolving issues, and building relationships that strengthen our communities.

DUTIES

Outreach & Engagement

• Conduct door-to-door canvassing and community outreach in the Antelope Valley area to share information about climate resiliency programs and initiatives.
• Promote community involvement in climate resiliency activities such as tree planting, cleanups, cool paving, and heat adaptation.
• Participate in community events such as parades, festivals, workshops, and other public gatherings across the Antelope Valley and surrounding areas.
• Lead and participate in training programs to educate tribal citizens on topics related to climate resiliency (e.g., extreme heat, tree planting).
• Distribute educational materials such as brochures, pamphlets, and climate resiliency-themed giveaways (water bottles, magnets, etc.).
• Encourage participation in local watershed conservation projects such as stream cleanups and tree planting days.
• Promote awareness through outreach at schools and community events.
• Represent FTBMI’s vision, work, and values at meetings with other organizations and agencies.
• Develop and deploy outreach strategies that amplify Tribal community perspectives.
• Support partners and team members to ensure timely completion of project goals, milestones, and deliverables.
• Facilitate effective communications with both FTBMI and non-FTBMI community members, partners, and stakeholders.

Administrative Functions

• Provide logistical support, prepare meeting minutes, and assist with developing materials for meetings, events, conferences, consultations, and presentations.
• Assist with developing reports and training materials.
• Support quantitative and qualitative research across environmental and climate projects.
• Schedule meetings and workshops, coordinating between multiple project partners and FTBMI staff.
• Assist with social media and public outreach with respect for diverse backgrounds.
• Ensure compliance with internal processes, policies, and external requirements.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Proven history of effective outreach to community members
• Experience presenting at workshops or community meetings
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines
• Strong judgment and adaptability to changing project needs
• Ability to work under pressure and resolve conflicts effectively
• Collaborative, team-oriented mindset
• Intermediate or advanced MS Office skills (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
• Flexibility to adapt to changing processes and priorities
• Valid California Driver’s License and acceptable driving record (as determined by the Tribe’s insurance carrier)
• Dependable, punctual, self-directed, and personable when interacting with the public
• Access to reliable Wi-Fi and ability to use online meeting platforms (Zoom, Teams)
• Ability to use software to track public engagement and related data

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in water management, native plants, urban planning, or nature-based infrastructure
• Multilingual skills, preferably Spanish, and multicultural experience
• Familiarity with the culture and history of the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Duties are performed primarily in the field and office.
• Fieldwork in the Antelope Valley and other areas within FTBMI territory is required and subject to seasonal environmental conditions.
• Must be able to walk several miles a day during canvassing and outreach.
• Must reside locally and be able to travel regularly throughout the Antelope Valley for events and outreach activities.
• Work includes sitting, typing, and viewing a monitor for extended periods.
• Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds on an infrequent basis (proper lifting techniques required).
• Must use a personal cell phone for communications with supervisors and colleagues.
• Evening and weekend work may be required.
• Travel costs will be reimbursed at the approved mileage rate.

CONFIDENTIALITY

This position requires safeguarding sensitive and proprietary information about FTBMI and its members. The applicant must maintain strict confidentiality of all work, files, and materials that may identify individuals by name, either directly or indirectly. A confidentiality agreement will be required upon hire. Any violation of confidentiality may result in immediate termination of employment.