For Employers

Partnering with the Warm Springs Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO)

The Warm Springs Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance (TERO) applies to all construction employers and ODOT contractors operating on or near the Warm Springs Indian Reservation.

TERO ensures that Native American workers and Native-owned businesses receive fair access to employment, training, and contracting opportunities.

The goal of the W.S. TERO Office is simple:

to build mutually beneficial relationships between employers, Native American workers, and the community through compliance, cooperation, and respect.

Your Responsibilities as an Employer

All construction employers doing business on or near the Warm Springs Reservation must:

• Comply with TERO Ordinance requirements related to Indian preference in employment, training, contracting, and subcontracting.

• Work directly with the TERO Office to identify qualified Native American workers for open positions.

• Submit compliance documentation for each project before work begins.

• Ensure that subcontractors are also aware of and in compliance with TERO requirements.

Project Compliance

To maintain compliance, all contractors must complete and submit the appropriate forms before starting work on a project.

These forms ensure accurate recordkeeping, verification of TERO fees, and compliance with local hiring and certification requirements.

Required Forms:

• Project Compliance for Contractors
  Download Form →

• Project Compliance for ODOT Projects
  Download Form →

• Notice to Contractors
  Download Form →

• Certification Registration Form
  Download Form →

If you’re unsure which form applies to your project, contact the TERO Office for assistance before submission.

Working with the TERO Office

Our office will help you:

• Identify and refer qualified Native American workers.

• Review project timelines and workforce needs.

• Support compliance throughout your project.

• Foster positive relationships with tribal workers and leadership.

Native-Owned Business Certification

Employers are encouraged to subcontract with certified Native-owned businesses whenever possible.

The TERO Commission certifies Native-owned companies that meet specific ownership and operational criteria, ensuring a fair and transparent contracting process.

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with ODOT

The TERO Office works in partnership with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) to apply the Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance to ODOT projects on or near the Reservation.

This agreement outlines roles, responsibilities, and enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance and respect for tribal sovereignty.

Contact the TERO Office

Warm Springs TERO Office
4202 Holliday St, Suite 1
Warm Springs, Oregon 97761
📞 (541) 615-0853
✉️ Email the TERO Office →

Our staff is available to guide you through compliance procedures, answer questions about documentation, and help ensure your project runs smoothly in accordance with the Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance.