Iron House Medicine Program Manager

Tacoma, WA

Native American Reentry Services is seeking applicants for the Iron House Medicine Program Manager position. This person will closely collaborate and engage with key stakeholders, the HEAL for Reentry program, and community programs to fully support NARS vision, mission, and core values. Those with lived experience in the criminal justice system are encouraged to apply.

Native American Reentry Services is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Our mission is to address barriers faced by Native people struggling to transition from a life of incarceration to one of healthy and productive freedom. We support successful reintegration into Native American/Aboriginal reservation and urban communities and reduce recidivism through Native American/Aboriginal traditional means. 

Native American Reentry Services administers the Iron House Medicine Program by contract for the Washington State Department of Corrections. The purpose of the program is to encourage participation in cultural and spiritual activities and use peer education and interventions among an incarcerated population. The Iron House Medicine program provides traditional Native American religious and spiritual services and advocacy of the American Indian Religious Freedom Act.

Requirements & Essential job functions

The Program Manager is responsible for contract compliance, training, and service provision under the WA State DOC American Indian/Alaska Native Religious Services contract. A successful applicant will be able to understand, articulate and promote NAR’s vision and goals for the IHM Program when working with Iron House Medicine participants and families, Dept. of Corrections Staff, and Community Partners. The Program Manager must also have the ability to seek, develop, and maintain positive partnerships with key stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities include:  

Program Administration; performs various contract administration functions, including contract compliance, contract funds reconciliation, oversight of Dept. of Corrections religious policies and procedures as they pertain to AIRFA, monthly/quarterly/annual reports, and problem solving

Experience in building productive, positive, professional relationships and networks; demonstrates problem solving, communication skills, constant professionalism, critical thinking, and objectivity; ability to work constructively in difficult situations; effectively resolve conflict; ability to both work in a team environment and to make decisions and work independently.

Provide leadership and guidance; responsible for the recruitment, retention and oversight of contract staff; maintain best practices in program services; ensure compliance with policies and procedures; Ensure contract staff are oriented and prepared to fulfill the duties and responsibilities; Routinely evaluate program processes and staff needs to make recommendations for continuous improvements.

Demonstrated ability to work with incarcerated Native American and Indigenous individuals and their communities; aptitude for working effectively with an interest in the welfare and spiritual needs of Iron House Medicine program participants; demonstrate emotional stability; adaptability; firmness; patience; self-control; tact; good communication skills; good judgment in moral, ethical, and spiritual matters; ability to independently travel to prison sites statewide

Excellent writing, organization, and oral communication skills.

Strong computer skills with at least five years using Microsoft Office or similar software.

Possess a valid Washington State Driver’s license and have proof of auto insurance.

Ability to access Dept. of Corrections facilities; agency cleared background disclosures required for correctional facility access.

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Administration, Human Services or related field and three (2) years of professional work experience providing program management and/or facilitating organizational change; 

or Associate’s Degree in Education, Administration, Human Services or related field and five (3) years of professional work experience providing program management and/or facilitating organizational change; 

or High School Diploma/GED Completion and four (4) years of professional work experience providing program management and/or facilitating organizational change.

Confidentiality This position will have knowledge of confidential personal information regarding others. The employee will be required to sign a Confidentiality Agreement and adhere to applicable standards.

Equal Opportunity Native American Reentry Services is an equal opportunity employer.

Drug-free Workplace: Native American Reentry Services is committed to providing a drug-free workplace for its employees, volunteers, and the communities it serves.

Essential Functions/Physical Abilities

Bending at the waist; sitting for extended periods of time; lifting medium objects generally less than 20 pounds. Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. Routine travel required to prisons located across the state.  

To Apply: Complete an employment application form and send with cover letter describing how your qualifications make you a good fit for this position and resume including three work related references to:

Winona Stevens
Native American Reentry Services
708 Broadway, Suite 300E
Tacoma, WA 98402

NARS Employment application is available online at www.nativereentry.org  under Agency & Job Opportunities or by emailing winona@nativereentry.org.  In order to be considered for a position, submit your resume and a completed application.

Native American Reentry Services is a drug-free and equal opportunity employer