Full-time Archaeological Field Director

Beaver Creek Archaeology, Inc., a cultural resource management (CRM) consultancy with offices in Bismarck, ND and Artesia, NM, is seeking motivated individuals to join our team as a Full-Time Archaeological Field Director. BCA conducts project work throughout the central-western United States, with a significant focus on the Great Plains region. The primary role is to provide leadership and oversight for archaeological fieldwork projects. As the key figure in the field operations, the Archaeological Field Director plays a pivotal role in directing field surveys, excavations, and data collection efforts.

Position Overview
This position is based out of our Bismarck, ND office. The candidate can expect to work 40 hours a week during regular business hours (Central Time Zone) with the possibility for overtime as project load indicates. Compensation will be commensurate with the applicant’s level of education and previous experience. Candidates are encouraged to outline in their cover letter any specific compensation needs. After a probationary period, the successful candidate will become eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance coverage, and retirement savings options.

The Archaeological Field Director is not only a hands-on participant in fieldwork but also a leader responsible for the successful execution of archaeological projects. This role demands a combination of field expertise, project management skills, and effective communication to contribute significantly to the advancement of archaeological research and cultural resource management initiatives.

Key duties and responsibilities
• Project Leadership: Oversee and lead archaeological fieldwork projects, ensuring adherence to research designs, methodologies, and project timelines.
• Field Operations: Direct and actively participate in archaeological field surveys, excavations, and site monitoring, demonstrating expert knowledge of field techniques.
• Team Management: Supervise and mentor field technicians and other team members, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
• Data Collection: Oversee the collection of archaeological data, contributing to comprehensive site analyses and research outcomes.
• Artifact Documentation: Provide guidance on artifact analysis, ensuring accurate documentation and interpretation of findings.
• Mapping and Documentation: Supervise in-field mapping activities, ensuring precise documentation of sites, features, and significant archaeological elements.
• Equipment Management: Manage and maintain archaeological tools and equipment, ensuring their proper functionality and maintenance.
• Safety Oversight: Implement and enforce safety protocols to ensure the well-being of all team members during fieldwork.

Minimum Qualifications
• Master's degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or a related field.
• Minimum of one year of experience in archaeological fieldwork with some previous project management experience.
• Completion of an archaeological field school or equivalent field training.
• Demonstrated expertise in leading archaeological field surveys and excavations.
• Experience with artifact analysis, mapping, and comprehensive site documentation.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Strong time management skills to ensure efficient use of fieldwork time and meet project deadlines.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing field conditions and project requirements.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and challenging terrains.
• Ability to work collaboratively or independently
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Critical thinking and creative problem-solving abilities.
• A passion for cultural resource management and archaeology

Preferred qualifications
• Proficiency in using GPS and mapping tools.
• Understanding of the historical context and archaeology of the Northern Plains.
• Understanding of CRM principles and practices, including compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Experience in geospatial analysis and GIS (Geographic Information System) applications for archaeological mapping and data visualization.
• Strong skills in technical report writing, ensuring clear and comprehensive documentation of research findings.

Physical Requirements
• Ability to work for long hours in varying weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, rain, and exposure to sunlight.
• Proficiency in traversing diverse terrains, often with uneven surfaces and challenging topography.
• Capacity for extended periods of walking and hiking, covering significant distances each day, often while carrying equipment and tools.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds of equipment and field gear, including excavation tools, survey equipment, and artifact collection materials.
• Stamina to endure physically demanding tasks, including excavation, shovel testing, and repetitive motions associated with artifact analysis.
• Capability to work collaboratively in a team environment, sharing responsibilities and assisting colleagues as needed.

The above tasks and requirements are not intended to represent or account for every task or duty the employee may be responsible for or assigned to.

If you are a dedicated archaeologist with a passion for preservation, we invite you to join our team at BCA. Please submit your updated resume, a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this position, and desired pay range.