Cultural Researcher (NPS, Death Valley National Park)
About The Position
In cooperation with the National Park Service, the Great Basin Institute (GBI) is recruiting one (1) Cultural Researcher to work cooperatively with National Park Service staff at Death Valley National Park. The Cultural Researcher will work under the guidance and mentorship of Death Valley National Park (DEVA) Cultural Resources staff and members of the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe, with mentorship opportunities with the DEVA Interpretation and Education staff. Through this immersive experience, the Cultural Researcher will lead DEVA efforts to expand the interpretation of the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe by conducting ethnographic and archival research to compile articles about Timbisha history and culture. The Cultural Researcher will consult with the Timbisha Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) and members of the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe to collect and organize historical information about the Tribe. The researcher may also examine public and park records, oral histories, and approved Tribal records to support the ethnographic information shared by the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe. Additionally, the Cultural Researcher will work with DEVA staff and the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe to develop creative methods for sharing Timbisha history and culture within Death Valley National Park. This may include interpretive panels or exhibits, interpretive programming, and/or cultural trainings for staff.
Requirements
- Experience conducting ethnographic work in Native American communities
- Experience working with tribal members and/or tribal historic preservation issues
- Experience assessing historical evidence using primary and secondary sources, including oral tradition and oral histories
- Experience applying Indigenous Knowledge to natural and cultural resource management
- Possess a clean, valid, state-issued driver’s license
- Ability to communicate effectively, both written and orally, with a diverse audience
- Self-motivated and self-directed individual who is capable of working independently or part of team toward mutual goals and objectives
- Successful applicant must complete a Department of Interior (DOI) Background Investigation (BI) or submit paperwork to NPS human resources indicating an active and fully adjudicated BI has already been completed prior to beginning position.
Nice To Haves
- Knowledge of Timbisha Shoshone history and culture
- A Bachelor’s degree or higher in Native American Studies, Anthropology, or associated field (history, archeology, ethnography, etc.)
- A member of the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe or an American Indian or Alaska Native.
Responsibilities
- Conduct ethnographic and archival research to compile articles about Timbisha history and culture.
- Consult with the Timbisha Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) and members of the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe to collect and organize historical information about the Tribe.
- Examine public and park records, oral histories, and approved Tribal records to support the ethnographic information shared by the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe.
- Work with DEVA staff and the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe to develop creative methods for sharing Timbisha history and culture within Death Valley National Park.
- Develop interpretive panels or exhibits, interpretive programming, and/or cultural trainings for staff.
Benefits
- Housing Stipend: $110 biweekly - dormitory accommodations available in Death Valley for the duration of the project
- Health, Dental, Vision Insurance premiums are covered 100% by GBI. Available on the first day of the month following the start of employment
- Paid federal holidays
- Paid Sick Leave accrued at a rate of 0.05 hrs per hour worked (~4 hrs biweekly)
- $25,000 Basic Life & AD&D insurance
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
