We Return Buffalo to Native American Lives, Lands, and Economies.

Our work focuses on Native producers, community-led solutions, and building the infrastructure needed for long-term food sovereignty and economic strength.

We’re looking for people who are aligned with this work and ready to contribute to it..

  • Tanka Fund exists to support the return of Buffalo to Native lands and the restoration of the systems that sustain them.

    We are a Native-led organization working at the intersection of food systems, economic development, and cultural revitalization—grounded in the leadership of the communities we serve.

  • We take a systems-based approach to Buffalo restoration. That means we don’t focus on a single intervention; we work across the full ecosystem needed for long-term success.

    Our approach includes:

    • Supporting Native ranchers and producers through funding and technical assistance

    • Expanding processing and market access for Native Buffalo economies

    • Investing in community-led solutions that reflect local priorities

    • Strengthening partnerships across Tribal nations, nonprofits, and funders

    We prioritize relationships and long-term impact over short-term wins.

  • Our work is built in partnership with Native communities, producers, and organizations across the country.

    We collaborate with:

    • Native Buffalo ranchers and producers

    • Tribal Nations and community leaders

    • Indigenous-led organizations and coalitions

    • Philanthropic and institutional partners aligned with our mission

    These relationships are not transactional. They are long-term commitments grounded in mutual respect, shared goals, and accountability to community.

Director of Buffalo Restoration & Science Affairs

(Deadline to apply: April 24th, 2026)

The Director of Buffalo Restoration & Science Affairs will lead Tanka Fund’s efforts to support Native Buffalo Caretakers in restoring, managing, and sustaining Buffalo herds across Native communities. This role centers on building strong, trust-based relationships with caretakers while providing science-informed guidance that advances herd health, ecological restoration, and regenerative land practices. The Director will help translate research into practical tools and strategies that strengthen community-led Buffalo stewardship.

This position also serves as a key connector across tribal nations, research institutions, conservation organizations, and the broader Buffalo restoration movement. The Director will advance collaborative initiatives that elevate the cultural, ecological, and economic importance of Buffalo, while contributing to Tanka Fund’s broader mission through research, outreach, and capacity-building efforts.

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Office & Grant Compliance Coordinator

(Deadline to apply: April 24th, 2026)

The Office & Grant Compliance Coordinator plays a vital role in ensuring the effective stewardship of Tanka Fund’s grant funding and daily operations. This position manages post-award grant processes, including tracking deadlines, maintaining grant calendars, preparing reports, and ensuring compliance with funder requirements. Working closely with program, finance, and leadership teams, the Coordinator helps gather information, develop budgets, and support timely, accurate reporting that sustains strong funder relationships and organizational accountability.

In addition to grant compliance, this role supports the smooth operation of Tanka Fund’s headquarters. Serving as the primary point of contact, the Coordinator manages front desk responsibilities, communications, scheduling, and office logistics to create a welcoming and efficient workplace. This includes coordinating shared spaces, maintaining supplies and systems, and supporting staff, partners, and visitors with professionalism and care. Occasional travel (approximately 10%) is required to support community engagement and relationship-building.

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Community Engagement & Communications Specialist

(Deadline to apply: April 4th, 2026)

The Community Engagement & Communications Specialist serves as a key bridge between Tanka Fund and the Indigenous communities and Native Buffalo Producers at the heart of our mission. This role focuses on building meaningful relationships with Native ranchers, supporting recruitment and engagement efforts, and ensuring partners feel connected, supported, and seen. It requires cultural awareness, strong interpersonal skills, and a deep commitment to the work of returning Buffalo to Native lands, lives, and economies.

Blending community engagement with storytelling, this position also leads the creation of compelling content that amplifies the voices and experiences of Buffalo caretakers. From social media campaigns to donor communications, the Specialist brings stories to life in ways that inspire support and deepen understanding of the movement. This role is ideal for someone who is equally comfortable in community spaces and digital platforms, and who values both relationship-building and creative communication.

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