Director for Indigenous Ministries

Indigenous Ministries Director

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with 2.7 million members in more than 8,300 worshiping communities across the 50 states and in the Caribbean region. Known as the church of "God's work. Our hands.," the ELCA emphasizes the saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, unity among Christians and service in the world.

The ELCA's roots are in the writings of the German church reformer Martin Luther.

This position directs the Indigenous Ministries program of the ELCA through its Service and Justice unit. The primary purpose of this position is to provide voice for Indigenous communities in the ELCA and to respond effectively to the needs of these communities, develop and implement strategic engagements through relationships with AIAN Tribal Nations in the United States and along its border, partners and collaborates with the American Indian Alaska Native Lutheran Association, ministry personnel, provide personnel management consulting, administer budget and grants, monitor and evaluate programs, collaborate with ecumenical partners and agencies in common mission objectives, and engage other expressions of the ELCA in companion relationships.

This is a full-time, regular, exempt, remote position. The eligibility of a candidate for remote or hybrid positions may depend on the residency of the candidate, and the budget for the role, including salary or pay, insurance coverage, and/or tax burden. Candidates for this position must reside within the fifty United States or the District of Columbia and be authorized to work lawfully in the United States.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.

Requirements include 7+ years of experience leading ministry, non-profit, program management experience, experience in strategic planning, program planning and implementation as well as work with and among indigenous communities. Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience. Master's degree or equivalent, M. Div./MTh preferred; extensive coursework, knowledge and ability to articulate understandings of mission, particularly accompaniment as a lens and methodology for Indigenous ministries.

Official federally recognized enrolled tribal member or official State recognized enrolled Tribal member preferred. ELCA rostered minister or lay leader preferred.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone. This position requires sitting for long periods of time. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Position requires considerable domestic travel by plane and car to visit various ministries, attend event and conferences, and time at the churchwide organization. Valid driver's license preferred.

The ELCA offers a competitive benefits package for eligible employees, including employer paid health premiums for employees, health and dependent care FSA's, a health savings account (HSA) with an employer contribution, life insurance, and a substantial employer contribution to 403b retirement plan (no match required). We also offer a generous paid time-off policy including 17 paid holidays. All benefits commence on your start date.

If you have questions about this job or your application, please email us .

Salary is commensurate with qualifications and relevant experience.

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees and prohibit discrimination based on race, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. As a religious organization, we reserve the right, where permitted by applicable federal and state law, to employ individuals who share and support our religious beliefs, mission, and values.