Community Outreach Specialist

Kodiak Area Native Association (KANA) is a Tribal health organization committed to elevating the lives of the people we serve. At KANA, employees are more than staff members—they are part of a mission-driven team focused on meaningful work, community impact, and long-term growth across the region.

Position Overview

The Community Outreach Specialist, also known as the Community Catalyst, works to strengthen community resilience by identifying local priorities, developing projects, and building capacity within the region. This role collaborates with community members, local leadership, and regional partners to design and implement initiatives that address environmental, economic, and cultural challenges. The position serves as a key connector between local communities, the Kodiak Regional Resilience Catalyst, and the Alaska South Coast Partnership (ASCP).

Preference is given to applicants residing in the villages of Akhiok, Karluk, Larsen Bay, Old Harbor, Ouzinkie, or Port Lions, although applicants residing in Kodiak will also be considered. This position is a Temporary, Part-Time, Grant-Funded position, through December 31, 2027

Benefits & Perks

• 401(k) retirement plan with a 7% employer contribution beginning in year two, paid regardless of employee contribution
• Paid Parental Leave
• 80% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Access to 20+ medical plan options through federal OPM benefits
• Employer-paid life insurance at 2.5x annual salary
• AD&D, short-term, and long-term disability coverage
• Generous paid time off and 13 paid holidays
• Free gym membership to the KANA Wellness Center
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Tuition assistance and reimbursement programs
• Leadership development and internal advancement opportunities
• Eligibility for IHS and NHSC loan repayment programs (role dependent)
• Potential temporary housing assistance for relocating employees, based on availability

Key Responsibilities

• Supports the organization's mission, goals, and quality standards while demonstrating KANA's core values of Courtesy, Caring, Respect, Sharing, and Pride
• Upholds KANA's Code of Ethics by conducting all professional activities with integrity, fairness, and respect
• Identifies community resilience needs, including environmental, economic, and cultural priorities, through engagement with local leadership and community members
• Collaborates with the Kodiak Regional Resilience Catalyst to design and implement projects that strengthen community resilience and long-term sustainability
• Builds local capacity by supporting community members and organizations in carrying out resilience-focused initiatives
• Assists in identifying and pursuing funding opportunities, including grants and partnerships, to support project implementation
• Works collaboratively with local entities, tribal organizations, and regional partners to advance shared resilience goals
• Participates in Alaska South Coast Partnership (ASCP) meetings, retreats, and ongoing communications
• Collaborates with other Community Catalysts across the partnership to share best practices, resources, and lessons learned
• Travels bi-annually to Anchorage to attend ASCP retreats and bi-annually to Kodiak to meet with supervisors and team members

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Additional education or training in environmental studies, community development, or related fields preferred
• Strong knowledge of local culture, community needs, and regional issues valued equally with formal education

Our Values

KANA's work is guided by Courtesy, Caring, Respect, Sharing, and Pride. We seek team members who demonstrate these values in how they collaborate, lead community initiatives, and support regional partnerships.

Life In Kodiak

Located on beautiful Kodiak Island, this role offers the opportunity to build meaningful community connections while experiencing Alaska's unique coastal lifestyle, outdoor recreation, and close-knit community.