Sandia Ranger District Archeologist Project Lead

Rocky Mountain Youth Corps•Albuquerque, NM

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Rocky Mountain Youth Corps (RMYC), a New Mexico nonprofit youth development organization, offers this seasonal, full-time individual placement with the Cibola National Forest’s Heritage and Cultural Resource Department. The Archeologist Project Lead supports cultural-resource projects through field reconnaissance, archeological-site recording and reporting, field-crew leadership, GIS and data management, and report production. The placement also includes collecting data, preparing brief project reports, and communicating with Cibola National Forest and RMYC staff. The role leads other individual placements and is managed through RMYC, with regular check-ins, life-skills training, and other training opportunities tailored to the participant. Cross-training with other programs is encouraged. The position is based at the Sandia Ranger District Cultural Resources Department in Tijeras, New Mexico. It is scheduled for 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; exact start and end times depend on funding, program needs, and application timing. The stated compensation is $24.44 per hour. The Forest Service supplies access to government vehicles, equipment, materials, facilities, and systems needed for the work. A USDA background clearance is required before service begins, and completion of the clearance determines the participant’s exact start date. Fieldwork may take place in all weather conditions, including mountainous terrain, across rough and rocky surfaces, and may require use of primitive facilities for extended periods. The participant must be able to perform frequent physical activities including walking, climbing, balancing, reaching, bending, kneeling, crouching, and crawling, and lift up to 50 pounds unassisted. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals to perform essential functions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in archeology, anthropology, or a similar field.
At least 3–5 years of professional work experience in archaeology.
Knowledge of archeological theories, principles, and concepts, including reconnaissance, evaluation, and basic field-survey procedures.
Knowledge of federal and state legislation and policies concerning protection of cultural and historical sites.
Knowledge of cultures and ethnic groups that inhabited the region in past periods, to evaluate archeological findings and conduct surveys.
Interpersonal skills and knowledge of team principles for archeological work.
Communication techniques for exchanging information and presenting findings and recommendations.
Valid driver’s license and an insurable driving record.
Must be a U.S. citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident.
Must complete the required pre-employment National Service Criminal History Check and fingerprint scan; must not be registered or required to be registered on a state or national sex offender registry, and must not have a murder conviction.
Must complete USDA background clearance before reporting for service.
Must be able to perform frequent physical activities including sitting, standing, walking, speaking, hearing, climbing, balancing, reaching, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling, and lift up to 50 pounds unassisted.
Must be able to communicate warnings or requests for assistance at distances up to 50 meters, including in limited visibility or loud conditions.
Must be able to maintain proper dosage of prescription medications independently, if taking them.
Must comply with government regulations and policies for equipment and vehicle operation, security awareness, and safety.
State-level background checks will be conducted for candidates who are not New Mexico residents.

Responsibilities

Assist staff with archeological field and office work and develop knowledge of relevant skills, techniques, and procedures.
Lead field reconnaissance searches in areas planned for activities such as timber harvest, trail management, wildlife habitat improvement, road construction, and recreational development.
Complete pre-field record searches, including searches for previous sites and surveys, land patents, and aerial photographs.
Lead and plan field reconnaissance surveys to required standards.
Record archeological sites to required standards using methods and materials such as FieldMaps, site plans, site forms, and paper maps.
Write small- to mid-size compliance reports.
Manage cultural-resource records and reports and complete GIS mapping.
Research and examine historical records to understand the history, social structure, and living conditions of past cultures in the area.
Assist staff with field investigations for a Forest-wide classification and protection program that will inform long-range management plans.
Track miles of trail improved, acres of land improved, and other notable project work for biweekly RMYC reports.
Work effectively as a team member, contribute to a safe learning environment, and communicate ideas and concerns to supervisors, colleagues, and organization staff.
Represent the U.S. Forest Service appropriately to the public and partners.
Communicate hazards, personal distress, injury, or need for assistance, and follow directions for hazard management.
Remain alert and focused while traveling and working in varied weather conditions; respond appropriately to stress or crises.
Complete program activities, including conservation projects, education, training, and national service.