Scientific Specialist, Archaeology - Illinois State Archaeological Survey at University of Illinois in Champaign, Illinois

Job Description:

Scientific Specialist, Archaeology
Illinois State Archaeological Survey
Prairie Research Institute
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign



The Illinois State Archaeological Survey (ISAS) is part of the Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois at 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 https://prairie.illinois.edu/about/jobs/


ISAS is seeking to hire a Scientific Specialist, Archaeology to assist with GIS-based spatial analysis, creating maps and other project deliverables, as well as conducting archaeological fieldwork. Position is based in Champaign, Illinois.



Duties & Responsibilities:

Perform archaeological spatial analysis and use data to create information products that meet the Survey's needs using GIS.
Use electronic and physical archaeological field data to create GIS datasets to meet the Survey's needs.
Assist in preparing metadata, managing digital spatial data and data transfers, and documenting workflows.
Use electronic mapping devices and equipment to provide spatial control at archaeological sites.
Ensure the safety of staff and equipment.
Participate in fieldwork to identify archaeological materials, delineate the spatial extent of archaeological materials, and determine landscape conditions and soil characteristics.
Gather archival, cartographic, geophysical, and geographic information relevant to the site investigations and/or project areas.
Participate in public outreach and other educational events and professional conferences.
Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.
Perform other related duties as needed in order to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and University.



Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in anthropology, archaeology, history, American Indian or Native American Studies, Geography, or closely related field with an emphasis in GIS. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position. Related research experience. Experience with GIS software. Valid driver's license. Preferred Qualifications: Master's degree in anthropology, archaeology, history, American Indian or Native American Studies, Geography, or closely related field with an emphasis in GIS. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position. Proficiency in ESRI GIS software (ArcMap, ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS online). Experience with common software used to conduct spatial analysis.



Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Required: Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, and teamwork skills. Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environment of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases. Preferred: Familiarity with Eastern Woodlands archaeological culture history. Knowledge of federal and state of Illinois historic preservation and burial laws and regulations.



Work Environment: Work is conducted in both office and 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 and beyond in both rural and urban settings. Travel may include overnights for up to one work week at a time. Will require operating, lifting, and manipulating field equipment and other items over uneven terrain weighing up to 50 pounds.



Appointment Information: This is a full-time academic professional appointment. The starting date is negotiable and the salary is commensurate with experience. The minimum starting salary is $44,000.



Benefits: The University of Illinois offers a wide variety of benefits https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/benefits, including paid leave https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/leave and holidays https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/leave/holidays



Application Procedure and Deadline Information: Applications must be received by 6:00 p.m. Central Time on June 14, 2024. Interviews may be conducted before the closing date; however, no hiring decision will be made until after this date. To apply, please use the Apply Now button. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. Application materials must include a 1) a cover letter that clearly articulates how your qualifications and experience make you a viable candidate for this position and should address the qualifications listed above, 2) a CV or resume, and 3) the names and contact information including e-mail addresses of three academic or professional (not personal) references. All requested information and documentation must be submitted for applications to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.


For further information please contact Lori Walston-Vonderharr, Human Resources, Prairie Research Institute, at lwalston@illinois.edu or 217-244-2401. For questions regarding the application process, including technical system related 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, and employment eligibility review through E-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 accessibility@illinois.edu .


Requisition ID: 1024713
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu