Archaeological Field Technicians – Northern Illinois Field Station
Illinois State Archaeological Survey
Prairie Research Institute
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
The Illinois State Archaeological Survey is seeking to hire Archaeological Field Technicians (Academic Hourly Assistants) to serve as excavators and surveyors capable of performing basic archaeological identification, interpretation, and recordation tasks under the direct supervision of a Research Archaeologist. Duties include, but are not limited to, participation in Phase I field surveys, Phase II site testing, Phase III archaeological mitigation projects, and associated analysis activities based at the ISAS Northern Illinois Field Station in Elgin, Illinois. These are full-time (40 hours per week), non-benefits eligible, field/laboratory positions with an hourly rate of $16 to $18 depending on qualifications.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Participate in pedestrian field survey and shovel or hand auger testing to determine landscape conditions and soil characteristics, to identify archaeological materials, and to delineate the spatial extent of archaeological materials.
- Describe, interpret, and document soil profiles.
- Locate and document archaeological sites using topographic maps and electronic mapping devices.
- Provide basic cultural identification, description, and interpretation of archaeological materials.
- Appropriately excavate and interpret testing units, soil profiles, and/or cultural features including the production of plan and profile view maps.
- Complete paperwork and forms.
- Ensure the safety of staff and equipment.
- Clean, prepare, and catalog archaeological materials.
- Process flotation samples, including sorting of various materials.
- Assist with site and inventory descriptions of archaeological materials.
- Gather archival, cartographic, geophysical, and geographic information relevant to site investigations and/or project areas.
- Assist with the proper handling, identification, quantification, and recordation of archaeological artifacts, and faunal, botanical, soil, and specialized samples.
- Assist supervisory personnel with inventory descriptions, and the completion of forms and production of reports.
- Clean, prepare, and catalog archaeological materials.
- Perform other duties as needed in order to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and University.
Required Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in anthropology, archaeology, or closely related field. At least six months of archaeological experience, preferably in the archaeology of the Midwest or Eastern United States. Ability to make appropriate decisions involving proper handling, recognition, identification, and interpretation of archaeological materials in the field and lab. 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. Valid driver's license.
Positions will be filled as soon as suitable candidates are identified. Please submit a cover letter, resume, and the names/contact information of three academic or professional references to Dr. Clare Tolmie, Field Station Coordinator, at ctolmie@illinois.edu
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 through E-Verify.
