Staff Archaeologist – Bismarck, ND

Position Summary

Merjent, Inc. (Merjent) is seeking a full-time Staff Archaeologist/Principal Investigator to conduct, oversee, and direct archaeological field investigations, implementing field procedures established by Merjent. Projects could range from small, self-performed field investigations to supervising a field crew. The Staff Archaeologist/Principal Investigator is responsible for performing common tasks associated with leading archaeological investigations and surveys within an archaeological project area; completing project documents and reports; and coordinating fieldwork, scheduling, reporting, and any other project needs with various Project Managers and clients. A successful candidate will be self-motivated, have excellent time management skills, and have a working knowledge of both state and federal regulations. This position will be based out of the Bismarck, North Dakota area.

Why Merjent?

This is a full-time benefits eligible opportunity. The anticipated annual salary for this position is between $72,100 and $111,300 depending on qualifications and experience. This position is bonus eligible.

Responsibilities

• Complete initial project review for requests from clients and project managers and assist, and at times lead, proposal efforts.
• Perform pedestrian walkover survey, controlled surface survey, and hand excavation (shovel testing), oftentimes solo.
• Direct archaeological site documentation and maintain field records.
• Determine types of appropriate survey coverage within the project area during pedestrian survey.
• Author reports, agency letters, Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act request forms, and other documents.
• Adhere to Merjent- and client-directed safety policies and procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment. Oversee safety of the field crew and ensure adherence to project safety protocols.
• Cookordination project needs between Project Managers and clients with the rest of the cultural resource group.

Qualifications and Experience

• Secretary of the Interior-qualified for Archaeology with a graduate degree in archaeology, anthropology, or related science required.
• Project-specific certifications and licensure may be required, if applicable.
• A minimum of 3 years of experience in a similar leadership capacity conducting pedestrian surveys and evaluative site testing fieldwork is preferred.
• Knowledge of federal and state-specific cultural resource guidelines is required, particularly North Dakota and surrounding states.
• Experience leading field crews.
• Proficiency in calculating figures and amounts such as percentages, area, ratio, circumference, and volume.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general technical procedures and governmental regulations related to cultural and historic preservation.
• Competency in writing detailed archaeological reports and business correspondence.
• Skilled at completing digital data collection using ArcGIS & AGO platform.
• Proven track record working with and guiding Archaeology Field Technicians to ensure producing a quality work product in a timely manner.
• Highly effective team player, with a strong ability to collaborate with other survey types or project teams with poise, tact, and diplomacy.
• Excellent communication skills, written and verbal, with the ability to clearly communicate issues to all levels of management.