Executive Petrography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $50,470.00 Annually
Location : Natchitoches, LA
Job Type: Unclassified
Job Number: 999093
Department: Northwestern State University
Opening Date: 06/02/2026
About this Job
Northwestern State University seeks qualified applicants for the position of Research Associate. This position is in the Preservation Technical Services Division of Northwestern State University of Louisiana. This job is in partnership with The National Center for Preservation Technology and Training (NCPTT), a research and training office of the National Park Service. Our office is located on the campus of Northwestern State University of Louisiana in Natchitoches, LA.
To apply: Please submit a resume, letter of application, and complete contact information for three professional references to , or mail to:
Attn. Director of Technical Services
NCPTT
645 University Parkway, Natchitoches, LA 71457
Northwestern State University is a State as a Model Employer (SAME) agency.
The successful candidate will be subject to a background check, as a condition of employment.
Notice of Non-Discrimination
(Full Disclosure)
Northwestern State University provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
All complaints or inquiries related to Title IX should be directed to the Director of Title IX Compliance and Title IX Coordinator, Julie Powell (318-357-5570), Room 306 of the Friedman Student Union or email tix@nsula.edu.
In accordance with Section 35.106 of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), all participants, applicants, organizations, and interested individuals are advised and noticed that the ADA Coordinator for Northwestern State University for facilities is the Director of University Affairs, Jennifer Kelly (318-357-4300), located in Room 128 Caspari Hall or email andersonje@nsula.edu. For student academic services, contact the Director of Access and Disability Support, Crissey Smith (318-357-5460) located in Room 111 Watson Memorial Library or email smithcr@nsula.edu. For faculty/staff accommodations and services, contact Executive Director of Institutional Effectiveness and Human Resources, Veronica M. Biscoe (318-357-6359), Room 111 Caspari Hall or email ramirezv@nsula.edu.
Minimum Qualifications

• Moderate knowledge of photographic techniques
• The ability to travel to sites around the country and conduct in the field analysis and material sampling
• Moderate knowledge of optical microscopes
• Professional verbal and written communication skills are required
• A basic knowledge of architectural history and historic preservation
• Self-driven, highly motivated, and diplomatic
• Must be project focused, have an excellent attention to detail and a strong ability to work in a team environment
• Must possess a good working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook
• Minimum of an Undergraduate Degree is required
• Must have a valid driver's license
• Must be clear to work in the US for the two-year contract with no Visa sponsorship or renewal necessary

Bonus: Any applicant with experience in;

• pXRF
• XRD
• Thin Section Petrography
• Pigment identification
• Wood identification.
• Hair and fiber identification.

Job Specification
The Preservation Technical Services Team of Northwestern State University of Louisiana is dedicated to documenting and preserving a wide variety of historic structures, sites, objects, and sculptures across the United States.
This position is based in Natchitoches, Louisiana and hired as a contractor through the State of Louisiana. The contract is for two years, at $50,470 with benefits.
For this position Tech Services is looking for someone with hands-on laboratory skills and knowledge of historic building materials. It is preferred that the applicant have knowledge in historic preservation, conservation, history, and architectural history.
Job Duties and Other Information

• Perform on-site documentation and material analysis of historic buildings
• Compile and submit reports within specific timeframes
• Conduct mortar analysis, paint, and coating analysis
• The ability to work in a materials laboratory with knowledge of historic building materials
• Experience conducting research and analysis
• Complete basic maintenance and upkeep of equipment
• Make safety a top priority at all times
• Performance of other duties as assigned

Benefits for unclassified employees are determined by the individual hiring authority.