Archaeology Technician III

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JOB DESCRIPTION:

This is professional services and archaeological work performing and overseeing field and laboratory activities related to archaeological projects. Responsibilities include prioritizing field work activities, assigning team work, determining field techniques and methods to be utilized, evaluating activities to ensure integrity of data collection and analysis outcomes, and drafting complex report findings to support professional publications and reports. This classification is distinguished from the lower level Archaeology Technician II by the responsibility to analyze and present data recommending site eligibility for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places and lead site project work. Technical and functional direction is exercised over professional and technical staff and volunteers. Work is performed under limited supervision.

REPRESENTATIVE TASKS:

Leads archaeological projects and crews by planning, assigning, performing and monitoring excavation activities in order to adhere to budgets/timelines, and to ensure proper collection and handling of artifacts and archaeological samples. Tracks project costs and orders supplies and equipment to keep projects costs on budget. Conducts and oversees the implementation of specialized laboratory procedures in order to process and analyze artifacts and instruct staff in the use of specific techniques and methods. Completes and reviews analysis of archaeological materials and samples in order to perform preliminary identifications and monitor adherence to protocols. Writes detailed reports and assesses report summaries of others in order to document research activities, archaeological artifacts, materials, and support recommendations related to project scope. Assists the Historic Preservationist and/or Senior Historic Preservationist in the analysis and interpretation of data in order to verify compliance with data collection, provenance protocols, and to support successful listing in the National Register. Compare findings from one site with archaeological data with other sites in order to build valid archaeological conclusions Writes specifications and selects and maintains suitable scientific, field, and laboratory equipment in order to make purchases and keep equipment safe and operable. Inputs and retrieves information from the Geographic Information System (GIS) and operates ground surveying equipment in order to collect, store, and retrieve data Evaluates information from database catalogues and other electronic and manual record systems in order to provide specialized geographic views and predictive models of archaeological site location, and ensure record documentation complies with provenance protocols. Determines excavation and laboratory equipment requirements and scheduling needs in order to direct site specific field operations, laboratory activities, and equipment use. Explains and promotes programs and policies to the public, other agencies, private organizations, and the media in order to inform others and promote goals, strategies, and programs. Monitors and evaluates the work of staff and volunteers in order to verify hours worked and provide input to the Director regarding work performance and training needs. Evaluates soil samples and materials collected in order to determine when external laboratory analysis is needed and which type of analysis is to be performed, in consultation with the Historic Preservationist and/or Senior Historic Preservationist Researches publications for current developments in conservation practices and performs modern artifact conservation methods and techniques in order to ensure items remain intact. Oversees the photographing of sites, graphic, and visual material development, and organization and storage of archaeological collections in order to document inventory and manage collections. Evaluates and archives older data in order to establish and maintain database for long term studies.

Representative Tasks & KSA’s are cumulative across the Commission’s Archaeology Series.

Positions in this classification assume ALL the Representative Tasks & KSA’s of: Archaeology Technician I and Archaeology Technician II.

KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
• Knowledge of and professional experience with New England prehistoric and historic archaeology, Maine Rules governing professional archaeological work, agency project review process, and archaeological survey guidelines.
• Knowledge of the care, treatment and handling of archaeological artifacts.
• Knowledge of modern procedures for processing, identifying, and analyzing archaeological artifacts and materials.
• Knowledge of sources and methods used in scholarly research and writing
• Knowledge of advanced laboratory analysis methods and use of specialized equipment related to archaeological excavation and research activities.
• Knowledge of agency policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions related to archaeology field and laboratory work.
• Knowledge of soils classifications, soil horizons and sampling methods and techniques.
• Knowledge of design and operation of GIS, electronic data processing, and associated computer software programs.
• Ability to lead projects and instruct staff in assigned duties.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to write clearly and effectively.
• Ability to recognize surficial geology, soil types, and landform characteristics from predictive model of prehistoric site location data.
• Ability to plan, coordinate, and oversee all phases of archaeological projects, research, and identify, gather, and assess archaeological artifact data.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

A graduate degree in archaeology, anthropology, or a closely related field; and two (2) years of full-time professionally supervised experience or equivalent specialized training in archaeological resource research, administration, or management; supervisory field and analytical experience in general North American archaeology with at least one of those years in northern New England; and demonstrated ability to carry research to a written completion.

LICENSING/REGISTRATION/CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Valid driver license.

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