Lands Specialist in Kotzebue, Alaska at Kikiktagruk Inupiat Corporation, LLC

Position Summary:

The Lands Specialist provides technical, administrative, and field support for the management of Kikiktagruk Inupiat Corporation (KIC) land assets. Working under the direction of the Director of Lands & Shareholder Relations, this position assists with land use activities, recordkeeping, permitting, and coordination with internal staff, Shareholders, and external agencies.

KIC manages over 200,000 acres of land conveyed through the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), along with additional acquired lands. The Lands Specialist supports responsible land stewardship by assisting with land programs, maintaining accurate records and maps, and participating in field inspections and data collection.

This position requires a balance of office and fieldwork and the ability to work in remote and Arctic conditions while maintaining professionalism and attention to detail.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Assist with implementation of land management policies, procedures, and programs in alignment with federal, state, and local regulations and Board direction.
• Support land acquisition, reconveyance, and disposal activities, including coordination with agencies such as the Bureau of Land Management.
• Assist with administration of land use agreements, including leases, permits, easements, and material sales (sand, gravel, and rock).
• Support Shareholder land programs, including land sales, cabin site leases, camping permits, and related activities.
• Maintain accurate and organized land records, files, and documentation for efficient retrieval and reporting.
• Update and maintain land maps, geospatial data, and records using GPS, GIS, or related systems.
• Participate in field inspections of KIC lands using various modes of transportation (e.g., truck, ATV, snowmachine, boat, aircraft, or on foot).
• Collect field data and assist in preparing reports on land conditions, land use activities, and compliance.
• Monitor land use and report issues such as trespassing, environmental concerns, or safety risks.
• Assist with preparation and submission of permits, applications, and required regulatory documentation.
• Support environmental and land management practices, including reclamation and hazardous material procedures.
• Provide information and assistance to Shareholders and the public regarding land ownership, access, and land use.
• Assist with coordination of projects, meetings, and communication with internal departments and external partners.
• Support budget tracking, equipment logs, and general administrative functions of the land department.
• Maintain a strong commitment to safety and follow all field and operational safety protocols.
• Represent KIC in a professional and respectful manner in all interactions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

Education/Experience

Required:

• Minimum of 3 years of progressively responsible work experience demonstrating the ability to meet core competency requirements.
• At least 2 years of experience in land management, natural resources, or a related field.
• Experience working in Alaska, preferably with Alaska Native Corporations and familiarity with ANCSA and ANILCA.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resources (e.g., wildlife biology, fisheries biology, forestry, or natural resource management), Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, Business, or a related field.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

Required:

• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and professionalism.
• Working knowledge of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) and Alaska National Interest Land Conservation Act (ANILCA).
• Understanding of Alaska Native cultures and community values.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws related to land acquisition, reconveyance, and land use.
• Basic understanding of land, fish, and game laws and regulations.
• Familiarity with local ecosystems and environment conditions, including experience with outdoor and remote work environments.
• Knowledge of wilderness safety practices, including cold weather operations, and use of communication tools such as radio and satellite systems.
• Proficiency in GPS field use, handheld GPS units, and data collection methods.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and general office technologies.

Preferred:

• Experience with AutoCAD, CAD drafting, surveying, or related technical skills.
• Experience with Geographic Information System (GIS) software.

Certifications/Licenses/Other

Required:

• Valid and unrestricted driver's license.
• Ability to obtain and maintain certification for firearm use for wildlife protection.
• Willingness to carry bear spray or a firearm as necessary for safety in the field.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety and adherence to safety protocols.

Preferred:

• Emergency Trauma Technician (ETT) or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification.

Working Environment:

This position operates in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment with a combination of office and field-based work. Regular attendance for a standard 40-hour work week is required; however, occasional overtime, extended hours, and travel may be necessary based on fieldwork and project demands.

Fieldwork may include travel to remote and undeveloped areas and exposure to varying and extreme weather conditions. Employees must be comfortable working both indoors and outdoors, sometimes with limited access to communication and support services.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to work in both office and field environments, including remote and undeveloped areas.
• Frequent standing, walking, and hiking over uneven, rugged, and sometimes icy terrain.
• Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, and climb as needed during field inspections and project work.
• Ability to lift, carry, and move equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Capability to operate and ride in various modes of transportation, including trucks, ATVs, snowmachines, boats, and small aircraft.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying and extreme weather conditions, including cold temperatures, wind, snow, and rain.
• Ability to safely use tools, equipment, and field technology such as GPS units and communication devices.
• Ability to maintain alertness and situational awareness in remote environments, including wildlife presence and changing terrain conditions.
• Ability to travel for extended periods, including overnight stays in remote locations as needed.
• Sufficient vision, hearing, and mobility to perform fieldwork safely and effectively.
• Ability to work extended hours or flexible schedules during field seasons or project deadlines.

Benefits:

KIC offers a comprehensive benefits package to eligible full-time employees including: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance, 401k with Match, Life and ADD Coverage, Short and Long Term Disability, Paid Time Off and Holidays, Education Assistance/Tuition Reimbursement, Employee Assistance Program, Employee Discount Program, and more!

Apply online at our website: https://kikiktagruk.applicantpool.com/

Disclaimer:

This is not to be an exclusive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of the person in this job. KIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Pursuant to The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act 43 U.S.C. Sec. 1601 et seq., and federal contractual requirements, Kikiktagruk Inupiat Corporation may legally grant certain preference in employment opportunities to KIC Shareholders and their Descendants. Successful candidates must adhere to KIC's Drug and Alcohol policy/testing requirements and may be required to pass a background and/or Motor Vehicle Records check. The salary range for this position is based on several factors, including relevant experience, education, skills, and current market conditions.