Visiting Scientific Specialist, Archaeology

University of Illinois; Champaign (IL); On-site; USD 43,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Illinois is seeking Visiting Scientific Specialists in Archaeology to conduct archaeological fieldwork, lab investigations, and collections analysis. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and experience in archaeological methods. Multiple positions are available, offering a competitive salary ranging from $43,000 to $45,000. Applications must be submitted by October 15, 2025.

Qualifications

• Archaeological fieldwork, analysis, and curation experience in the Midwest or southeastern US required.
• Must have valid driver’s license.
• Familiarity with Illinois archaeology preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct fieldwork to identify archaeological materials.
• Perform lab processing and cataloging of archaeological materials.
• Contribute to education and outreach goals of the Survey.

Skills

Effective communication

Teamwork

Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases

Education

Bachelor’s degree in anthropology, archaeology, history, or related field

Tools

GPS

GIS

Filemaker Pro

Geophysical survey equipment

Job description

Visiting Scientific Specialist, Archaeology

Visiting Scientific Specialist, Archaeology

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Positions will be located in multiple Illinois field stations including Champaign, Collinsville, Elgin, Jacksonville, and Macomb.

The Illinois State Archaeological Survey (ISAS) is part of the Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, which is centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. For 80 years, the University of Illinois has studied the state’s archaeological heritage. ISAS incorporates that knowledge in its programs to protect, preserve, and interpret these irreplaceable and non‑renewable resources within the context of Illinois’ need to encourage and promote sustainable development. Learn more at go.illinois.edu/PRIjobs.

ISAS is seeking to hire a Visiting Scientific Specialist, Archaeology (up to 10 hires depending on applicant pool and programmatic need)to conduct archaeological field, lab, and collections investigations and analysis projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Research – Data Collection

• Conduct fieldwork to identify archaeological materials, delineate the spatial extent of archaeological materials, and determine landscape conditions and soil characteristics.
• Locate and document archaeological sites using topographic maps, field sketch maps, and electronic mapping devices.
• Gather archival, cartographic, geophysical, and geographic information relevant to field investigations and/or collections documentation.

Research – Data Analysis and Inventory

• Conduct lab processing, inventorying, and cataloging of archaeological materials and records.
• Identify and catalog pre‑contact and/or post‑contact materials.
• Complete field and lab forms and review for accuracy.
• Contribute to technical reports and collections assessments.
• Scan documents and data entry.

Other

• Contribute to the education, outreach, and/or service goals of the Survey, PRI, the University of Illinois, and the state of Illinois.
• Keep abreast of developments in this field.
• Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and University.

Minimum Qualifications:

Required: Bachelor’s degree in anthropology, archaeology, history, American Indian or Native American Studies, or closely related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position. Archaeological fieldwork, analysis, and/or curation experience in the Midwest or southeastern US. Valid driver’s license.

Preferred: Archaeological fieldwork, analysis, and/or curation experience in Illinois.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Required: Effective communication and teamwork skills. Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a diverse and fast‑paced work environment with multiple and changing priorities. Demonstrated ability to produce deliverables by established deadlines. Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases.

Preferred: Familiarity with Illinois archaeology and standard archaeological methods in the field, lab, and curation facilities. Proficiency in using GPS, GIS, Filemaker Pro, geophysical survey equipment, or other specialized equipment and computer programs.

Working Conditions:

Work is conducted in office and/or field settings. Fieldwork will require working in adverse conditions (inclement weather, biting insects, remoteness) and occasional travel (including driving to and from research sites) throughout the state of Illinois in both rural and urban settings. Overnight travel for up to one week at a time may be required. Lab and curation work will require the ability to lift up to 50 lbs and to sit for long periods, often in front of a computer screen.

Appointment Information:

This is a full‑time visiting academic professional appointment. Position may become a regular position at a later date depending on funding and a programmatic need. The budgeted amount for this position is $43,000 to $45,000. The salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the full range for a position.

Please note that interviews and hires may take place before the close of the job ad.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 p.m. (CST) Wednesday, October 15, 2025. To apply: please visit https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/15330?c=illinois and select the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of the page. Applications not submitted through this website will not be considered. Application materials must include a 1) cover letter that clearly outlines your qualifications and experience as it relates to this position, 2) a CV or resume, and 3) names and contact information (including email addresses) for three professional (not personal) references. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

For further information about this specific position, please contact Jill Billerman [e-mail] . For questions regarding the application process, including technical issues, please contact 217-333-2137.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non‑discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, COVID‑19 vaccination requirement, and employment eligibility review throughE-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing [e-mail].