Technical Lead – Branch of Irrigation & Power (BIP Program) Labor Category: Technical Coordinator – Civil Engineer or Physical Scientist (Level III/IV) Location: Remote with occasional travel or Lakewood, CO (preferred) Employment Type: Full-Time | U.S. Citizenship Required Security Clearance: Must be eligible for Level 6C Public Trust Compensation & Benefits Salary Range:$120,000 – $145,000 annually, depending on experience, licensure, and work location
Benefits Include:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) retirement plan with employer contribution
Paid time off and holidays
Professional development & continuing education
Bonus eligibility (performance-based)
This salary range reflects our good faith estimate based on market data and compliance with laws in Colorado, North Dakota, and the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians. Final compensation will be determined based on qualifications and geographic location.
Position Summary Chippewa Sustainable Solutions (CSS) is hiring a Technical Lead to support the modernization and operations of tribal irrigation systems and power utilities under the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Division of Water and Power (DWP). This role combines technical leadership, asset management, and utility program oversight — with a special emphasis on delivering real-world impact across Indian Country. You will lead design, evaluation, and monitoring of irrigation infrastructure, ensure data accuracy in federal systems like MAXIMO and NIIMS, and guide teams on utility rate-setting and capital improvement strategies.
Key Responsibilities
Provide technical direction on irrigation system upgrades and modernization
Oversee asset tracking, condition assessments, and capital planning via MAXIMO®
Develop irrigation rate studies and financial models using NIIMS or similar platforms
Support deployment of remote monitoring systems and GIS-based tools
Coordinate with tribal utility boards, BIA stakeholders, and engineering consultants
Ensure compliance with tribal, federal, and engineering standards
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Agricultural, or Electrical Engineering; or Physical Science
Minimum 10 years of experience in irrigation, utility systems, or water infrastructure
Experience working with tribal communities or on Indian Irrigation Projects
Demonstrated proficiency with asset management systems (e.g., MAXIMO), GIS, and O&M planning
Strong leadership and cross-functional communication skills
Preferred Qualifications:
Active Professional Engineer (PE) license (any U.S. state)
Familiarity with NIIMS, FBMS, or similar billing systems
Experience with DOI, BIA, or tribal water and power program oversight
About CSS & Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians Chippewa Sustainable Solutions (CSS) is a tribally owned SBA 8(a) and Indian Economic Enterprise (IEE) of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians (TMBCI) — a sovereign Tribal Nation based in Belcourt, North Dakota. Our mission is to deliver high-impact solutions in infrastructure, energy, technology, and environmental stewardship that empower tribal communities and federal partners alike. CSS is also a platform for workforce development, offering career-building pathways in engineering, asset management, program administration, and data systems — with a special emphasis on training and employing Native professionals.
Why Work With Us At CSS, you’re not just applying for a job — you’re answering a calling. We offer:
Purpose-driven work that improves lives and strengthens tribal sovereignty
A people-first culture rooted in inclusion, mentorship, and professional development
The opportunity to make lasting change while advancing your career
Whether you’re an experienced infrastructure professional or looking for your next mission, CSS offers the support and platform to thrive.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement CSS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status. In accordance with 25 U.S.C. § 450e(b) and applicable tribal and federal law, CSS proudly supports Indian Preference in hiring. We strongly encourage applications from citizens of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians, as well as other Native American and Alaska Native individuals.