CULTURAL RESOURCES SPECIALIST/ARCHAEOLOGIST
Job Description
The Cultural Resources Specialist is responsible for conducting and managing cultural resource investigations in compliance with NHPA Section 106, NEPA, and Missouri SHPO standards. This role includes project scoping, fieldwork, analysis, reporting, and coordination with federal, state, and local agencies to ensure cultural resource compliance on federally funded or permitted projects.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead and/or assist with Phase I, II, and III cultural resource investigations (archaeological and architectural/historic surveys).
- Conduct background and archival research using state site files, National Register data, and previous survey reports.
- Identify, record, and evaluate prehistoric and historic resources in accordance with 36 CFR Part 800 and Missouri SHPO guidelines.
- Prepare technical reports, eligibility determinations, and effect assessments per the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines.
- Coordinate with federal and state agencies, including FHWA, USACE, NRCS, FEMA, and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (SHPO).
- Support Section 106 consultation and assist with mitigation measures and MOA preparation when needed.
- Manage field crews and ensure quality control of data collection, mapping, and artifact curation.
- Assist with NEPA documentation and interdisciplinary environmental studies involving cultural resources.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Professional Qualification Standards (36 CFR Part 61)
Applicants must meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards for Archaeology or Architectural History/History, depending on their discipline:
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Education:
- Graduate degree in archaeology, anthropology, architectural history, art history, historic preservation, or a closely related field;
OR bachelor’s degree in an applicable field plus at least two years of full-time professional experience (for architectural history/history).
- Experience:
- Minimum one year of full-time professional experience or equivalent training in archaeological or historic/architectural research, administration, or resource management.
- At least four months of supervised field and analytic experience in North American archaeology (for archaeologist applicants).
- Experience conducting architectural or historic resource surveys consistent with Missouri SHPO’s survey standards (for built-environment specialists).
- Additional Requirements:
- Demonstrated ability to carry research to completion (e.g., authorship of technical reports).
- Familiarity with Missouri and Central Plains/Midwest prehistoric and historic archaeology preferred for archaeology roles.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with MoDOT, USACE, NRCS, or FEMA-funded projects in Missouri.
- Proficiency with ArcGIS, GPS data collection, and digital mapping tools.
- Experience preparing reports for Missouri SHPO and familiarity with Missouri’s archaeological and historic preservation databases.
- Membership in professional organizations such as RPA or SAA.
- Strong technical writing and communication skills.
- Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel statewide.
WORKING CONDITIONS/WORK ENVIRONMENT
This position involves a mix of office and field duties. While much of the work is performed in an office environment—conducting research, preparing reports, and coordinating with project teams—the employee will also regularly travel to project sites throughout Missouri and nearby states. Fieldwork may occur in varied weather conditions and uneven terrain, and some multi-day field sessions may require occasional overnight travel.
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit. The employee frequently is required to walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee is often required to stand. The employee must frequently lift or move objects up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift or move objects up to 30 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision and ability to adjust focus. Riding and/or driving in a vehicle is commonly required for up to 6 hours at a time.
POSITION TYPE/EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK
This is a full-time position, with a minimum expectation of 40 hours per week. However, most work weeks will be 40 or more hours. Hours are somewhat flexible and some late evenings and/or weekends may be required.
TRAVEL
There may be occasional overnight travel for this position. Some local day travel may also be required.
OTHER SKILLS AND MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Adobe, Outlook and accounting software.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ten Key Proficient
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
OTHER DUTIES
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS
- Pre-employment drug and alcohol screening
- Valid Driver’s License
- Background screening including previous employment, education, criminal history, and driving record verification.
