Research Assistant Position Jobs in Champaign, IL

The Prairie Research Institute (PRI), a research and serviceinstitute of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, centrally locatedbetween Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis, houses five State ScientificSurveys covering a wide range of expertise, including biology, water resources,climate, geology, sustainable technology, and archaeology. PRI’s missionis to provide objective, integrated scientific research and services that allowcitizens and decision-makers to make choices that ensure sustainable economicdevelopment, enduring environmental quality, and cultural resource preservationfor the people, businesses, and across Illinois, the nation, and the world.

TheIllinois State Archaeological Survey (ISAS) is part of the Prairie ResearchInstitute. For 80 years, the University of Illinois has studied the state’sarchaeological heritage. ISAS incorporates that knowledge in its programs toprotect, preserve, and interpret these irreplaceable and non-renewableresources within the context of Illinois’ need to encourage and promotesustainable development.

ISAS is seeking to hire an Assistant Research Scientist,Archaeology to conductanalysis of archaeological materials and coordinate reporting among researchersfor compliance with state and federal regulations concerning culturalresources.

Duties& Responsibilities Include:

Research and Reporting

• Analyze and interpret archaeological materials recovered during compliance projects for the Illinois Department of Transportation;
• Develop and implement question-based research designs;
• Review and edit archaeological technical, research, and other compliance reports;
• Coordinate archaeological analysis and reporting projects with the Special Projects, Transportation, Curation, and Historics section heads and Field Station Coordinators;
• Contribute to ISAS’ research output through grant applications, professional publications, and conference presentations.

Administration

• Coordinate multiple projects in various stages of completion among various staff and sections;
• Respond to requests for information and provide technical expertise to IDOT, ISAS and PRI staff, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, academia, industry, and the general public.
• Contribute to project management and tracking project status in coordination with the section head.
• Manage specialized analyses within the survey and with consultants.

Other

• Conduct public engagement and educational activities that highlight the accomplishments of IDOT, ISAS, and PRI;
• Complete required administrative documentation, compliance-related forms, certifications, and mandatory training programs accurately and within established deadlines.
• Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois;
• Keep abreast of developments in the discipline.

Minimum Qualifications

Master'sin anthropology, archaeology, or closely related discipline. At least 3 yearsof professional experience in a Cultural Resource Management, academic, orgovernment archaeological research environment with a Master's. Demonstrated knowledge of federal and statelaws and regulations in relation to the management of archaeological culturalresources. Familiarity with pre-contact and post-contact history and materialculture in the continental United States. Demonstrated ability to write andedit compliance archaeology reports. Familiarity with pre-contact and postcontact history and material culture in the continental United States. Meetsthe Secretary of Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards forarchaeology (36 CFR Part 61). Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

Ph.D.in anthropology, archaeology, or closely related discipline. Administrativeexperience in a university, state, federal, or non-governmental organization.Experience in forming and maintaining relationships with state, federal, andrelevant non-governmental organizations. Familiarity with diverse analyticalmethods, GIS, and database software. Experience is supervising staff andcoordinating research activities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Demonstratedknowledge of archaeological survey, testing, and data-recovery field proceduresand completion of related compliance reports. Knowledge and experience with theHistoric Preservation Act of 1966, as amended; and Section 4(f) of theDepartment of Transporation Act of 1966. Effective communication,collaboration, organization, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstratedability to perform effectively under minimal supervision in a diverse andfast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities withstringent deadlines. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflictresolution skills. Strong time-management skills and the ability to managemultiple ongoing projects independently but with shared goals and timetables.Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases.

This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position. The budgeted salary for this position is$65,000-$80,000. Salary is competitiveand commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also consideringinternal equity. Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position.

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - the state's flagship public university and one of the world's leading research institutions - every staff member helps shape what's next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence - where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits.

• Health
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance
• a Retirement Plan
• Paid time Off
• Tuition waivers for employees and dependents

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. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal , or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu .