Lead Archaeologist (Crew Chief - AZ/NM)

Search, Inc.; Hyde Park Township (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job description

Title: Lead Archaeologist
Location: Arizona/New Mexico
Job Code: LA_AZNM_24
Job Link: SEARCH Job Postings - Direct Applications

SEARCH has an immediate opening for Full-Time Lead Archaeologists to join our Terrestrial Archaeology division. Selected candidates must be based in Arizona or New Mexico with regional CRM experience.

The position will lead crews of archaeologists performing Phase I, II, and III archaeological studies in accordance with a research design. Selected candidate is responsible for pre-field research; preparing field materials; logistical planning; conducting fieldwork; analyzing artifacts and data; contributing to progress reports, technical reports, and other deliverables; recommending modifications to the research design, health and safety plans, and other project plans based on in-field observations and experience; and quality control. The role will frequently supervise other project team members and works under the direction of Senior Archaeologists, Principal Investigators, and Project Managers.

SEARCH provides a flexible work environment, a professional and collaborative atmosphere, and a wide range of projects and opportunities for our staff. SEARCH offers a competitive total compensation package with strong health and wellness and retirement plans. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, group term life insurance, 401(k) plan with match, 10 paid holidays per year, and paid time off (PTO). Pay is commensurate with education and experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Use experience, education from a degreed program, and professional judgment to identify and target locations of enhanced site probability based on cultural, geological, and other environmental features.
• Adhere to project health and safety plan and participate, and/or lead when necessary, in office and field training and meetings.
• Perform pre-field background research, prepare maps, input data into electronic devices, and prepare project summary for field staff.
• Conduct archaeological survey, testing, and excavation in support of Phase I, II, and III studies in accordance with the research design to identify, record, and evaluate historic and prehistoric cultural resources.
• Conduct archaeological monitoring during project construction as required, including coordination with contractors.
• Provide in-field supervision to field teams including Archaeological Assistants, Archaeological Technicians, Archaeologists, and other Lead Archaeologists.
• Provide daily updates on project progress to the Principal Investigator/Project Manager.
• Record accurate, organized, and clear field notes, maps, drawings, logs, forms, tables, databases, artifact bags, box labels, and other project documentation.
• Collect and inventory artifacts, ecofacts, and samples in accordance with the research design.
• Identify potential human and faunal remains, and treat any suspected human burial remains respectfully and in a manner consistent with the research design and applicable State and Federal guidelines and laws.
• Perform quality control of field data (hand-written and electronic) on a daily basis to ensure information is accurate and complete.
• Use electronic and traditional navigational equipment (GPS, iPad/ArcCollector/Survey 123, compass, transit, etc.) to determine project limits, record fieldwork, document findings, and communicate progress.
• Photo-document artifacts, features, excavation units, land use, landscapes, unique environmental features, historic structures, and archaeology sites.
• Occasionally meet with, coordinate, and collaborate with landowners, land agents, clients, other field research teams, and visiting regulatory agency staff.
• Complete timesheets and other administrative or project requirements accurately and on schedule.
• Understand and adhere to the SEARCH Brand Guidelines, SEARCH Style Guide, SEARCH Fieldwork Guide, and the SEARCH Employee Manual.
• Understand and strictly adhere to SEARCH’s confidentiality, non-disclosure, and social media agreements, as well as any project- or client-specific requirements limiting the release of project data.
• Analyze artifacts and write up artifact descriptions.
• Travel for extended periods of time.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or a closely related field.
• Completion of an accredited archaeological field school.
• Minimum of two (2) years of professional archaeological field experience.
• At least one (1) year of supervisory experience in the field.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to meet deadlines while remaining detail-oriented, organized, and able to work well on multiple tasks.
• Valid driver’s license, a good driving record, and access to reliable transportation.
• Based in Arizona or New Mexico.
• Experienced in Southwestern archaeology.

Application Requirements:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• 3 Professional references
• Optional: Writing sample (if a collaborative report, identify sections authored).

Other Important Need-To-Know Information:

• This position will require flexible availability outside of standard working hours.
• Applicants must be eligible to be employed in the United States.
• SEARCH is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
• SEARCH is an Affirmative Action Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace.
• Employment offers are contingent upon satisfactory verification of criminal, education, driving, and/or employment background checks as well as passing results from a pre-employment drug screen.

Physical Demands:

To successfully perform the duties and responsibilities of the job, the employee should have the ability to meet the physical demands of the position, including:

• Carry up to 50 lbs. occasionally.
• Walk up to 5.0 miles per day carrying gear over uneven terrain.
• Undertake physical work outside, often in inclement weather.
• Travel to remote locations, frequently up to or exceeding 10 consecutive days away from home.

SEARCH Compensation and Benefits include:

• Competitive Salary
• Per Diem (for overnight travel)
• SEARCH-subsidized Group Health Insurance (including Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage)
• Generous 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Holidays (10)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)

About SEARCH:

SEARCH is an archaeology firm that deploys the full spectrum of cultural heritage services worldwide. By integrating science, technology, and creativity, SEARCH harnesses the power of the past to advance the projects, places, and people it serves.

Please send inquiries about the position to [e-mail]. Include the Job Posting code (LA_AZNM_24) in the subject line of your email.