Position Purpose:          

The Section 106 Intern will support the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) in carrying out responsibilities under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). The intern will assist with reviewing federal undertakings and supporting THPO consultations with federal agencies, tribes, and additional stakeholders. This position is designed as a paid, educational internship that provides hands-on experience in tribal sovereignty, applicable historic preservation laws, and cultural resource protection. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist with Section 106 reviews for federal undertakings.
• Conduct background research on proposed undertakings, including review of maps, cultural resource reports, and archival materials
• Help prepare correspondence, comments, and consultation letters to federal agencies and consulting parties
• Attend meetings, virtual or in person, on behalf of the THPO Office, with agencies and institutions. 
• Assist with community-informed research and culturally sensitive data handling
• Assist with HP outreach and education, website updates, and newsletters.
• Perform other duties as assigned

Learning Objectives 

• Gain practical experience with Section 106 of the NHPA and related federal regulations
• Understand tribal consultation protocols and the role of tribes as sovereign governments
• Develop skills in cultural resource research, professional writing, and records management
• Learn best practices for representing Peoria Nation and tribes that share our homelands, and culturally appropriate stewardship

Education and Experience:

• Undergraduate or graduate student in anthropology, archaeology, history, Indigenous/Native American studies, historic preservation, museum studies, or a related field preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Interest in Indigenous heritage protection, tribal sovereignty, and cultural resource management
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to handle sensitive cultural information with care and discretion
• Basic familiarity with Section 106, NAGPRA, or federal environmental review processes is a plus but is not required
• Experience with GIS, archival research, or database management is a plus, but not required
• Proficiency with computers and programs such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and the Internet

Certifications:

• Valid Driver’s License and Insurance

Conditions of Employment:

The Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma operates a drug-free workplace.

• Required to submit to and pass applicable drug test and background check
• Adhere to all work rules, policies & procedures, and safety standards

Work Requirements:

Position involves prolonged sitting, standing, stooping, or bending, lifting, or carrying up to 50 pounds daily. Work is generally performed in an office environment with varying levels of lighting, air quality, noise, and/or temperature. Outdoor work at the cemetery, schoolhouse, DNR, field school sites, tabling at events. As with most outdoor work, there could be ticks, spiders, etc.