Summary:

The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska is a federally recognized Tribe with its ancestral homeland located in Niobrara, NE. The Tribe does not have a reservation in the classic definition; rather, the Ponca Restoration Act defined its jurisdiction as a 'Service Delivery Area' comprised of 15 counties throughout parts of Nebraska, Iowa, and South Dakota. Within its Service Delivery Area, the Tribe offers a broad range of health, social, educational and cultural services.

The Director of Safety & Risk provides strategic leadership and organizational oversight for all Tribal safety, risk management, emergency preparedness, and physical security operations across all Ponca Tribe of Nebraska facilities, including healthcare and patient clinics. Reporting jointly to the COO of Tribal Affairs and the Revenue Enhancement and Cost Containment Administrator of Ponca Health Services, this position ensures a coordinated, compliant, and proactive approach to risk mitigation, emergency response, insurance management, and safety culture across Tribal government programs, offices, and clinical operations.

This role serves as the senior advisor on risk, insurance, and safety-related matters and is responsible for developing and enforcing policies and procedures that ensure regulatory compliance, operational continuity, and the protection of Tribal assets, personnel, and clients.

Essential Responsibilities and Duties:

Coordinate risk and safety responsibilities across all departments and sites, including health clinics, administrative offices, and community facilities.

Relationships and Authority:

This position provides direct oversight of Emergency Management and Security personnel. This position will work closely with Tribal Council, Executive Staff, and Tribal Members.

Working Environment and Physical Demands:

Work is performed in both office and field environments, including healthcare facilities, community buildings, and outdoor locations. Duties require mobility, lifting up to 50 lbs, and periodic extended work hours during emergencies. Regular travel across the service area (minimum of 3 days per month) and occasional out-of-state travel for training or incident support is required. The position may respond to high-stress situations involving safety or crisis support.

Travel within the service area is required, as well as travel to training and workshops outside of the service areas. This position will travel a minimum of three (3) days per month, or more depending on emergency events, Tribal priorities, and assigned activities.

At times this position may require you to work with members or staff who have been impacted by an emergency or disaster and are in crisis. The employee must demonstrate empathy, understanding, respect, and advocacy while remaining calm in stressful situations.

Qualifications:

Minimum Requirements:

Preferred Requirements:

Preference will be given to Ponca Tribe of Nebraska members or members of a federally recognized tribe. However, all qualified individuals are eligible.

The Ponca Tribe of Nebraska is an at-will employer.

Tribal Council Approval: 09/23/2025