Associate Research Scientist, Archaeology - Illinois State Archaeological Survey

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign•Urbana, IL
•Onsite

About The Position

The Prairie Research Institute (PRI) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign seeks an Associate Research Scientist, Archaeology for the Illinois State Archaeological Survey (ISAS). ISAS focuses on protecting, preserving, and interpreting Illinois' archaeological heritage within the context of sustainable development. This role involves coordinating compliance report preparation, managing remote field stations, collaborating on archaeological projects, and conducting scientific research. The position is a full-time academic professional appointment.

Requirements

  • Master's Degree in anthropology, archaeology, museum studies, or closely related discipline.
  • At least 8 years of professional experience in a Cultural Resource Management, academic, or government archaeological research environment.
  • Thorough knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations in relation to the management of archaeological cultural resources.
  • Familiarity with precontact and post contact history and material culture in the continental United States.
  • Meets the Secretary of Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards for archaeology (36 CFR Part 61).
  • Valid Driver's License.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of archaeological survey, testing, and data-recovery field procedures and completion of related compliance reports.
  • Knowledge and experience with the Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended; and Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act of 1966.
  • Effective communication, collaboration, organization, teamwork, and leadership skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision.
  • Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills.
  • Strong time-management skills and the ability to manage multiple ongoing projects.
  • Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases.

Nice To Haves

  • Ph.D. in anthropology, archaeology, museum studies, or closely related discipline.
  • Familiarity with Transportation archaeology and archaeological survey and testing reports.
  • Administrative experience in a university, state, federal, or non-governmental organization.
  • Experience in forming and maintaining relationships with state, federal, and relevant non-governmental organizations.

Responsibilities

  • Review and edit Archaeological Survey Short Reports (ASSR) and other Section 106 compliance documents and project status reports.
  • Track project and compliance documentation status.
  • Coordinate archaeological survey and testing field projects with the Transportation Section Head, Field Station Coordinators, and Illinois Department of Transportation contacts.
  • Provide technical and archaeological expertise, field services, and advice to ISAS Field Station Coordinators and staff.
  • Develop an active research program in the archaeology of the US Midwest, Southeast, and/or Plains.
  • Respond to requests for information and provide technical expertise to IDOT, ISAS and PRI staff, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, academia, industry, and the general public.
  • Manage survey vehicle fleet maintenance.
  • Develop and maintain guidelines and templates for cultural resource compliance documentation and reporting.
  • Coordinate with other units in ISAS including the historic archaeology and architecture section.
  • Conduct public engagement and educational activities that highlight the accomplishments of IDOT, ISAS, and PRI.
  • Complete required administrative documentation, compliance-related forms, certifications, and mandatory training programs accurately and within established deadlines.
  • Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois.
  • Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.

Benefits

  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition waivers for employees and dependents
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