NAGPRA Compliance & Repatriation Coordinator

Lawrence University Department of Theatre Arts; Appleton (WI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Lawrence University is seeking a NAGPRA Coordinator to lead daily compliance, inventory, and repatriation activities for university collections under NAGPRA regulations. The role partners with faculty and tribal nations to ensure ethical stewardship and timely, accurate documentation.

The coordinator will build records, coordinate consultations, and manage sensitive artifacts, balancing institutional needs with Tribal protocols. Travel and occasional after-hours work may be required.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a related field with two or more years of museum/NAGPRA experience preferred.
• Recent experience with NAGPRA implementation and knowledge of 2024 regulations.
• Experience with federal inventory and documentation processes.
• Demonstrated capacity for culturally sensitive communication and collaboration with Tribal representatives preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate NAGPRA compliance timelines, reporting, and communications.
• Inventory and document Ancestors, funerary and cultural objects per federal standards.
• Prepare federal inventories, summaries, and Federal Register submissions.
• Facilitate respectful consultation with Tribal Nations and coordinate visits.
• Serve as liaison between the University, tribal nations, and regulatory bodies.
• Develop and maintain NAGPRA databases and secure records.
• Ensure proper handling and storage of sensitive materials.
• Collaborate to establish long-term compliance infrastructure.
• Manage project timelines and deliverables; train student workers.
• Possibility to teach a related course; not required.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to regulatory protocols.
• Occasional travel and after-hours commitments may be required.

Skills

NAGPRA implementation

Tribal consultation

Database management

Museum cataloging

Cultural sensitivity

Project management

Student supervision

Communication

Confidentiality

Education

Master's degree in Anthropology/Archaeology/Museum Studies

Bachelor's degree + 6+ years related experience

Tools

Database software

Museum cataloging systems

Job description

Lawrence University is seeking a NAGPRA Coordinator to lead daily compliance, inventory, and repatriation activities for university collections under NAGPRA regulations. The role partners with faculty and tribal nations to ensure ethical stewardship and timely, accurate documentation.

The coordinator will build records, coordinate consultations, and manage sensitive artifacts, balancing institutional needs with Tribal protocols. Travel and occasional after-hours work may be required.