OVERVIEW
The Northwest Native Chamber (NWNC) is dedicated to promoting and supporting Native American businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals throughout the Pacific Northwest. Our mission is to create a vibrant and sustainable economic environment for Native American communities through networking, advocacy, and resource-sharing initiatives.
The Communications & Engagement Coordinator reports to the NWNC Operations Manager and is responsible for implementing and monitoring NWNC’s strategic communications strategy. This includes communicating with NWNC Engagement, resource navigators, and staff across Oregon and Washington.
The Coordinator develops and implements strategic communications, events, and membership plans with the intent to strengthen and expand the NWNC Community. This role focuses on increasing NWNC’s capacity for effective communication with members and ensuring the organization is responsive to the needs of its programs.
Additionally, the Coordinator is responsible for member relations, including outreach, recruitment, and retention, as well as implementing strategies to cultivate and maintain strong ties between members and NWNC. The Coordinator will utilize a membership platform to manage and support NWNC’s membership effectively.
The Coordinator may also assist with identifying and securing resources to support NWNC’s work, primarily in community relations and communications. Successful candidates will have experience with event planning and management, Canva, Google Suite, Stripe, MemberPress, Elementor, and WordPress.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESCommunications (35%)
Responsible for internal and external communications strategy implementation, NWNC’s social media presence, and the development of communications collateral.
External Communications
- Develop, implement, and monitor communications initiatives that further NWNC’s strategic goals.
- Collaborate with coalition partners to enhance NWNC’s visibility and awareness.
- Coordinate and distribute NWNC awareness campaigns, internet marketing programs, and materials.
- Build and maintain relationships with regional and local media outlets, including Indigenous and community-based publications in Portland and Seattle.
- Ensure messaging and materials are culturally responsive and aligned with Indigenous values and storytelling traditions.
- Serve as the point of contact for media inquiries and coordinate responses and public statements.
- Draft and distribute press releases and media communications.
- Collaborate with Public Policy and Communications staff on advocacy-related messaging when appropriate.
Communication with Funders
- Develop and maintain relationships with sponsors and funders related to events and donations.
- Create communications and media materials to support fund development.
- Develop and implement peer-to-peer funding strategies for event expenses.
Communication with Internal Stakeholders
- Collaborate closely with NWNC’s Executive Team, Operations Manager, and program staff to align messaging and organizational priorities.
- Develop internal communications that ensure consistent information-sharing across departments, programs, and regions.
- Maintain clear communication channels between Portland- and Seattle-based staff, ensuring coordination for hybrid work and events.
- Support the creation of internal updates, staff announcements, and shared materials to foster transparency and team cohesion.
- Assist in documenting organizational milestones and collecting impact stories for newsletters, reports, and presentations.
Membership Development (35%)
- Oversee recruitment and retention of NWNC membership (Tribes, organizations, entrepreneurs).
- Build and maintain strong relationships with members and non-members.
- Represent NWNC at Portland- and Seattle-area community and business events to build visibility and partnerships.
- Develop and implement plans to assess and address membership needs through surveys, site visits, and relationship management.
- Manage and optimize the membership platform to track and manage engagement.
- Write and update membership communications, newsletters, and reports.
- Design and execute membership communications strategies that promote member engagement and visibility.
- Provide technical assistance to member programs in communications and media relations.
- Produce e-newsletters and contribute to reports and online communications.
Event Planning and Management (30%)
- Plan and manage NWNC’s bi-monthly luncheons, webinars, and community engagement events.
- Coordinate contractors, subcontractors, and logistics for events.
- Partner with Native-owned and local Portland/Seattle businesses for venues and services when possible.
- Assist with communications related to fundraising, sponsorships, and donor relations.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Minimum of 1 year in communications, public relations, or equivalent experience.
- Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Strong organizational, analytical, and multitasking abilities.
- Proficiency with Google Suite, Canva, WordPress, Stripe, and related tools.
- Experience with event planning and community outreach.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Knowledge of the Native business ecosystem in Oregon and Washington preferred.
- Must have a valid driver’s license, insurance, and the ability to travel regionally.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience preferred.
SALARY AND BENEFITS
The hourly wage range for this 40-hour/week position equates to $65,000 – $75,000 annually, depending on experience.
Benefits include:
- Health care reimbursement
- Paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) accrual
- 401(k) plan
- Mileage reimbursement (or vehicle rental for travel)
STANDARDS OF CONDUCT
- Exhibit professionalism, integrity, and impartiality in all interactions.
- Maintain confidentiality with sensitive information.
- Effectively manage workload, deadlines, and communications.
- Work cooperatively with NWNC staff and leadership.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This position operates in a hybrid environment based in Portland, OR, or Seattle, WA, with flexibility to work remotely within Oregon or Washington. Regular travel within the Pacific Northwest is required for events and meetings. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Duties are performed primarily at a desk using a computer. Mobility is required for meetings, events, and regional travel. The position may occasionally require lifting up to 25 pounds.
NOTE
This job description is not intended to encompass all functions and qualifications; it provides a general framework for the position. Employees may be asked to perform other related duties as assigned.
NWNC is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, especially those with lived experience in the communities we serve.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $31.00 - $36.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Portland, OR 97239
