Language Mentee

NWIFC
NWIFC

Bellingham, WA, USA

Posted on Jul 13, 2026


NOOKSACK INDIAN TRIBE

JOB DESCRIPTION


Job Title: Language Mentee

Department: Education Department

Reports To: Education Director/ Language Instructor

Job Status: Full-Time

Type: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

Grade: D

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JOB SUMMARY:

A Language Mentee supports the Education Department's youth programming by actively participating in language-preservation and revitalization efforts under the guidance of the Language Instructor. The mentee engages in structured language learning, assists with youth cultural and linguistic activities, and practices using the language in authentic community settings. In addition, the mentee helps design and develop language-learning resources, such as vocabulary materials, activity guides, recordings, and visual aids, to support youth engagement and community use. This role strengthens the mentee's fluency while contributing to the long-term preservation of the community's language, culture, and identity.

MAJOR TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Engage in structured language lessons, practice sessions, and self-study activities to build fluency under the guidance of the Language Instructor.
  • Assist with cultural and linguistic youth activities, including workshops, classes, camps, and community events.
  • Practice speaking and listening in authentic community settings to strengthen real-world language application.
  • Help create language-learning materials such as vocabulary lists, activity guides, visual aids, audio recordings,

and youth-friendly learning tools.

  • Support cultural programming that integrates language, including storytelling, traditional arts, songs, and intergenerational learning.
  • Assist with recording, organizing, and maintaining language materials for preservation and future use.
  • Work closely with the Language Instructor and Education Department staff to plan, prepare, and deliver language-related activities.
  • Participate in outreach efforts that encourage youth and families to use and value the language.

OTHER DUTIES:

Because of the Tribe's commitment to community service and the well-being of its members, each employee may be expected to perform a wide range of office and field duties from time to time. Such duties may or may not be related to their regular responsibilities.

PREFERENCE:

  • Indian Preference Policy applies to this and all positions with the Nooksack Indian Tribe.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

The following qualifications are required for the incumbent to have, in order to be considered for the position.

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REQUIRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING FOR POSITION:

  • High school diploma or equivalent, this ensures basic academic readiness, reliability, and the ability to engage in structured learning.
  • Some post-secondary coursework in education, linguistics, Native studies, anthropology, or related fields

preferred but not required. This keeps the role accessible while recognizing the value of relevant study.

·• Intermediate proficiency training in the community's language gained through community classes, immersion programs, family learning, or prior mentorship. This acknowledges that language learning often happens outside formal schooling.

  • Willingness to pursue ongoing training - Commitment to continued language and cultural education under the

Language Instructor's guidance.

REQUIRED SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES POSITION:

REQUIRED CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

  • Must pass alcohol/drug test at time of hire and throughout employment.
  • Must pass criminal background check at time of hire and periodically thereafter.

REQUIRED LICENSES OR CERTIFICATIONS:

  • Must have and maintain throughout employment a valid Washington State Driver's License and meet the insurability requirements of the Tribe. (Must Provide Driving Abstract at time of hire).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.):

  • The standard work week is 8:30-5:00 Monday through Friday (occasionally may have to work evenings)
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for long periods and frequently required to talk and listen.
  • Sitting for extended periods while at a desk or in meetings.
  • Manual dexterity to operate a keyboard, calculator, and telephone system
  • Ability to lift upto 20+ pounds without assistance occasionally.
  • Typical office setting with environmentally controlled conditions.
  • Read, write, speak and understand English
  • Ability to listen, understands customers, and has the ability to translate rules, regulations, and policies to clients so they understand the issues/problems.
  • Operate in mentally and physically stressful situations with composure.
  • May have to walk/drive between office locations under a variety of conditions.
  • Must be able to bend, reach, kneel, twist, and grip from assigned work areas.

DESIRED SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES POSITION

The following qualifications are preferred/helpful for the incumbent who has these skills/knowledge or abilities for this position.

I have read and understand the position requirements as stated above I further, understand that occasionally I may be instructed to perform duties that are not listed above but are relative to my position.

The Tribe hopes that the employment relationship will be long and productive, however the Tribe is an employer at-will therefore you may terminate the employment relationship at any time and likewise the Tribe may terminate the employment relationship at any time. Neither you nor the Tribe needs to provide a reason for a decision to terminate the employment relationship.

Employee Signature: Date:









Supervisor Signature Date:






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