Archaeologist/Archaeological Monitor (Puerto Rico)

Title: Archaeologist (Monitor)
Location: Puerto Rico
Job Code: SOI-PR-26
Job Link: SEARCH Job Postings - Direct Applications

Position Information

SEARCH has an immediate opening for on-call Archaeologists to join our Terrestrial Archaeology division for monitoring projects in Puerto Rico. Selected candidates must be Secretary of the Interior Qualified in Archaeology and based in Puerto Rico, with knowledge on island cultural resources. In addition to monitoring projects, archaeologists may be called to participate in SEARCH survey projects around the island.

The formal title of this role is that of an Archaeological Technician, though the advertised title reflects the job function for consideration. Rotation schedules depend on project needs but are typically 10/4s, 6/1s or 5/2s. Starting hourly wage ranges from $20-$22 per hour, commensurate with education and experience. Travel time is paid, including mid-project travel for breaks. Travel days are considered part of the rotation. Lodging is single room accommodations and SEARCH pays per diem (no receipts needed) at a usual rate of $50/night and $25 on demobilization days when staying away from home.

Key Responsibilities:

• Adhere to project health and safety plans and participate in office and field trainings and meetings.
• Conduct archaeological monitoring, survey, testing, and excavation in support of Phase I, II, and III studies in accordance with the research design to identify, record, and evaluate historic and prehistoric cultural resources.
• Recognize archaeological signatures and apply reasoning to evaluate resources.
• Evaluate and record accurate, organized, and clear field notes, maps, drawings, logs, forms, tables, databases, artifact bags, box labels, and other project documentation.
• Collect and inventory artifacts, ecofacts, and samples in accordance with the research design, and keep an accurate field specimen log.
• Identify potential human and faunal remains, and treat any suspected human burial remains respectfully and in a manner consistent with the research design and applicable State and Federal guidelines and laws.
• Perform quality control of field data (hand-written and electronic) on a daily basis to ensure information is accurate and complete.
• Use electronic and traditional navigational equipment (GPS, iPad/ArcCollector/Survey 123, compass, transit, etc.) to determine project limits, record fieldwork, document findings, and communicate progress.
• Photo-document artifacts, features, excavation units, land use, landscapes, unique environmental features, historic structures, archaeology sites, unique environmental features, specialized equipment or technique usage, and work-in-progress.
• Procure and maintain field equipment, technology, field laboratory supplies, vehicles, and supplies in a clean, working, and safe manner.
• Occasionally meet with, coordinate, and collaborate with landowners, land agents, clients, other field research teams, and visiting regulatory agency staff.
• Travel for extended periods of time.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications Required:

• Graduate degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or a related field. 
• Meet the Secretary of the Interior (SOI) qualifications for archaeology.
• Live in Puerto Rico at time of hire.
• Experience with Caribbean archaeology.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks in variable terrain and environments.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• A valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation.
• Demonstrative knowledge of and familiarity with performing archaeological monitoring, survey and excavation.

Application Requirements

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Cover Letter
• References

Other Important Need-to-Know Information

• This position will require flexible availability outside of standard working hours.
• Applicants must be eligible to be employed in the United States on federally contracted projects.
• SEARCH is strongly committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where a variety of backgrounds, cultures, orientations, ideas, and talents can flourish.
• SEARCH is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
• SEARCH is an Affirmative Action Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace.
• Employment offers are contingent upon satisfactory verification of criminal, education, driving, and/or employment background checks as well as passing results from a pre-employment drug screen.
• We will endeavor to make a reasonable accommodation to the known limitations of a qualified applicant with a disability unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. If you believe you require such assistance to complete this form or, if requested, to participate in an interview, please let us know.

About SEARCH:

SEARCH is a global leader in archaeology, maritime archaeology, and the full spectrum of cultural heritage services. SEARCH’s staff are industry leaders and subject matter experts who support commercial and government clients worldwide. Since 1993, SEARCH has completed over 5,000 projects nationwide and across 44 countries, spanning seven continents and four oceans. By integrating science, technology, and creativity, SEARCH harnesses the power of the past to advance the projects, places, and people it serves.

For more information about SEARCH, please visit searchinc.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.      

Please send inquiries about the position to [email protected]. Include the Job Posting code (SOI-PR-26) in the subject line of your email.