Assistant Research Scientist, Archaeology - Illinois State Archaeological Survey

Illinois State Archaeological Survey (ISAS), part of the Prairie Research Institute (PRI) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, seeks an Assistant Research Scientist in Archaeology. PRI houses five State Scientific Surveys covering biology, water resources, climate, geology, sustainable technology, and archaeology. ISAS protects, preserves, and interprets Illinois’ archaeological heritage within the context of sustainable development.

Responsibilities

• Research and Reporting
  • Analyze and interpret archaeological materials recovered during compliance projects for the Illinois Department of Transportation.
  • Develop and implement question-based research designs.
  • Review and edit archaeological technical, research, and other compliance reports.
  • Coordinate archaeological analysis and reporting projects with Special Projects, Transportation, Curation, and Historics section heads and Field Station Coordinators.
  • Contribute to ISAS’ research output through grant applications, professional publications, and conference presentations.
• Administration
  • Coordinate multiple projects in various stages of completion among staff and sections.
  • Respond to requests for information and provide technical expertise to IDOT, ISAS, PRI staff, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, academia, industry, and the public.
  • Contribute to project management and track project status in coordination with section heads.
  • Manage specialized analyses within the survey and with consultants.
• Other
  • Conduct public engagement and educational activities highlighting accomplishments of IDOT, ISAS, and PRI.
  • Complete required administrative documentation, compliance-related forms, certifications, and mandatory training programs accurately and on time.
  • Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of ISAS, PRI, and the University of Illinois.
  • Keep abreast of developments in the discipline.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in anthropology, archaeology, or a closely related discipline.
• At least 3 years of professional experience in Cultural Resource Management, academic, or government archaeological research with a Master’s degree.
• Demonstrated knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations related to archaeological cultural resources management.
• Familiarity with pre-contact and post-contact history and material culture in the continental United States.
• Demonstrated ability to write and edit compliance archaeology reports.
• Meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards for archaeology (36 CFR Part 61).
• Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in anthropology, archaeology, or a closely related discipline.
• Administrative experience in a university, state, federal, or non-governmental organization.
• Experience forming and maintaining relationships with state, federal, and relevant non-governmental organizations.
• Familiarity with diverse analytical methods, GIS, and database software.
• Experience supervising staff and coordinating research activities.

Skills

• Demonstrated knowledge of archaeological survey, testing, and data-recovery field procedures and 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.
• Ability to perform effectively under minimal supervision in a diverse and fast-paced work environment with multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills.
• Strong time-management skills and ability to manage multiple ongoing projects independently but with shared goals and timetables.
• Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases.

Pay

The budgeted salary for this full-time position is $65,000–$80,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience, while considering internal equity.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Tuition waivers for employees and dependents