Archaeology Lab Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Work as part of a mission and value driven team in carrying out all elements of the archaeological lab process in order to improve our understanding of the cultural resources of James Madison?s Montpelier ? the home and the plantation. Work with the archaeology staff to conduct archaeological artifact and soil sample processing, iron conservation, and collections management work, interpret this information to the visiting public on a day-to-day basis, supervise archaeology staff interns, be an active part of the LEARN public archaeology programs at Montpelier, and teach lab processes to the Summer Archaeology Field School.

This position pays $18.36 an hour with an average of 35 hours per week (full time). This position provides on property housing at Arlington House. The Archaeology team is dedicated to professional development and providing opportunities to expand your skills and advance your career.

DUTIES

• Learn from the archaeology staff, continue to build on and hone skills learned through previous archaeological field and lab experiences.

• Check-in and accessioning of archaeological samples into the archaeology lab.

• Post-excavation organizing and processing of archaeological materials in the archaeology lab (water-screening, floating, finds washing, gradient sorting, picking, cataloging, iron conservation).

• Assist Archaeology Lab Director in supervising, instructing, and educating volunteers and staff interns in the lab, students during Montpelier?s archaeological field school, and the LEARN Archaeology public expedition program participants.

• Maintenance of databases related to archaeological collections, storage, and the archaeology study collection.

• Engage with the public in a polite and professional manner as one informs them of archaeological processes and historical concepts. This includes visitors at the archaeological site, archaeology lab, and using social media.

• Engage in descendant collaboration regarding Montpelier?s archaeological work with the Montpelier Descendants Committee members.

• Work a varying weekly schedule that may include occasional weekends (not to exceed 70 hours per pay period).

• Maintain and care for the Community Archaeology Lab at Montpelier?s offices and lab space as well as the residence at Arlington House.

• Work as part of a value driven team to further the goals of the Archaeology Department and mission of The Montpelier Foundation.

• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Candidates will be required to have a Bachelor's degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or a related field.

• Must have attended an accredited historical archaeology field school.

• Must have archaeological experience or training working in or with archaeological collections from the Virginia Piedmont.

• Must have archaeological experience working with 18th-19th century archaeological artifacts of Virginia.

• Familiarity with Montpelier?s Archaeology Lab processes and collections management protocols strongly encouraged.

• Must be able to effectively communicate, teach, and supervise archaeological lab techniques to untrained public, volunteers, and students.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Products (Word, Excel and Access).

• Ability to be organized and efficient both independently and in group work environments.

• Willingness to adhere to The Values of The Montpelier Archaeology Department.

• Valid Driver?s license.

• Acceptable background check.