Seasonal Archeologist

Full Job Description

NOTE: OPM has identified this position as eligible for an exception to the typical 1039-hour season.

This exception allows up to 1560 hours which may extend the season(s) reflected in this announcement. See the Additional Information section for details.

The typical season for this position is April - September but can be variable during these months due to weather conditions, project needs, or funding. The anticipated entry on duty is April 2026.

All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement 03/10/2026 unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS: Special knowledge or expertise concerning the park's or preserve's natural and/or cultural resources and the management thereof is required.

Local knowledge of the resources and the typical conditions that affect the work to be accomplished will be applied in the performance of duties.

-AND- To be eligible your application package must clearly show periods of time having lived or worked in or near the area of consideration.

The area of consideration can be found in the below paragraphs. Areas considered "near" Wrangell-St.

Elias National Park and Preserve are Chisana, Chistochina, Chitina, Copper Center, Dot Lake, Gakona, Gakona Junction, Glennallen, Gulkana, Healy Lake, Kenny Lake, Long Lake, Lower & Upper Tonsina, McCarthy, Mendeltna, Mentasta Lake, Nabesna, Nelchina, Northway/Northway Village, Northway Junction, Slana, Tanacross, Tazlina, Tetlin, Tok, Tonsina and Yakutat.

-ALSO- The following are the competencies identified for this position.

Applicants are not required to address these competencies in a separate document but are encouraged to include in their resumes experience related to these competencies: Knowledge of archeological theory, field methods, survey techniques, excavation procedures, and laboratory analysis.

Ability to evaluate site integrity, significance, and eligibility (e.g., National Register criteria). Ability to prepare compliance documents and evaluate project effects on historic properties.

Proficiency with GPS, GIS (ArcGIS, QGIS), and digital site recording and ability to manage spatial data, create maps, and maintain accurate field records.

Ability to plan field logistics, ensure data quality, and follow standard operating procedures and lead small crews, interns or volunteers during surveys and excavations.

Ability to work with interdisciplinary teams (biologists, engineers, planners, etc.) and consult with Tribal organizations, SHPO and stakeholders, or similar during compliance processes. Major Duties:

Duties of the position include but are not limited to the following: Records and evaluates archeological sites, features, and cultural landscapes by conducting field surveys, site reconnaissance, and subsurface testing.

Uses GPS/GIS to map sites and create spatial data for heritage resources. Writes Sections 106 and 110 compliance documentation, including determinations of eligibility.

Reviews proposed projects for potential impacts to cultural resources and provides recommendations for mitigation of adverse impacts.

Provides guidance for field technicians, interns and youth and coordinates with other resource specialists, project managers, and tribal/SHPO contacts.

Ensures work complies with federal laws such as National Historic Preservation Act, National Environmental Policy Act, etc.

Organizes, catalogs, and curates artifacts and associated records, ensuring collections meet federal curation standards (36 CFR 79). Please visit find a park for additional park information.