Realty​/Probate Specialist

Under the direct supervision of the Realty Director, performs realty and probate support duties while progressively developing the knowledge, skills, and leadership capacity required to assume the role of Realty Director within two (2) years.

This position is part of the Native Village of Kotzebue’s Strategic Plan priority to “Grow Our Own” by developing local capacity and leadership within the Realty Department. The selected candidate will participate in a structured two-year career development plan leading toward promotion eligibility. Refer to “Realty Specialist Career Ladder Summary” for added information.

Upholds the organization’s mission, and values as well as demonstrates an understanding of and compliance with organization’s policies and procedures.

Promotes the organization’s mission and vision and demonstrates integrity, professionalism, accountability, cooperation with and consideration of others.

• Supports the Realty Director in implementing NVOK’s Realty and Probate programs in accordance with Tribal and BIA policies.
• Assists with preparing, maintaining, and filing all realty and probate documentation, including leases, rights-of-way, gift deeds, drafting deed documents and conveyances.
• Conducts outreach to landowners, beneficiaries, and other agencies regarding Native Allotments, restricted property, and probate matters.
• Assists in the investigation and documentation of trespass and land-use issues on restricted lands.
• Works to develop a thorough understanding of the Native Allotment Act, Alaska Native Veterans Allotment Act, Alaska Native Settlement Act, and ANICLA.
• Prepares monthly and annual reports for internal and BIA submission.
• Participates in professional development, training, and mentorship as part of the two-year career plan.
• Assumes progressively greater responsibilities, including project coordination, budgeting, and leadership tasks as development milestones are met.
• Builds and maintains effective working relationships with community members, staff, and external partners.
• Enhances professional growth and development through participation in seminars, educational workshops, classes, and conferences.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned.

• None initially.
• Develops skill and ability to oversee the work of others.
• May assume limited supervisory responsibility as two-year development plan progresses.
• May assist in mentoring Realty/Probate staff.

Knowledge of:

• Traditional forms of government and tribal customs and traditions.
• Applicable federal and tribal laws, regulations, requirements, principles, and practices of allotment management and office administration.
• Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) and BIA regulations.
• National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and Native Graves and Repatriation Act (NGRA).
• Policies, functions, and responsibilities of the Native Village of Kotzebue and Alaskan Native culture, traditions, history, and needs.

Developing Knowledge of:

• Unique laws, regulations, and policies applicable only to Alaska, i.e., Alaska Native Allotment Act, Alaska Native Townsite Act, Federal Land Policy and Management Act, Alaska National Interest Land Conservation Act (ANILCA), and Alaska Native Vietnam Era Allotment Act.
• Modern trends related to the practice of grant management.
• Funding sources and mechanisms.

Skill in:

• Database management.
• Preparing operational reports.
• Analyzing problems, projecting consequences, identifying solutions, and implementing recommendations.
• Office software and industry-related applications.
• Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Exceptional customer service.

Developing Skill in:

• Reviewing and analyzing operational reports.
• Hiring, supervising,…