Archeologist (Archeologist III)

JOB OBJECTIVE:  Under the direction of the Site Manager and the HSD Chief Archeologist, this position will perform advanced archeological, research and cultural resource management work primarily for the Levi Jordan and Varner-Hogg Plantations State Historic Sites (SHS) of the Texas Historical Commission (THC). This position will contribute to planning and evaluation related to overall museum operations including, but not limited to public programming development and implementation, creation and distribution of online content and social media, retail product development, and budgeting and allocation of resources to accomplish site goals.

Significant to the antebellum period of Texas history and the tumultuous era of Reconstruction, Levi Jordan Plantation hosted a sizable agricultural operation. Levi Jordan moved his family and 12 enslaved workers to Texas to establish a sugar and cotton plantation on the San Bernard River in the 1840s. The site highlights the multiple perspectives and evolving relationships of those who lived and worked on the land during the 19th century. Today, the Levi Jordan Plantation provides a unique opportunity to understand the evolving agricultural history of the South and the early African American experience in Texas. At nearby Varner-Hogg Plantation, generations of Texas history, commerce and entrepreneurship encapsulate this site, which tells the stories of the many families, both enslaved and free, who worked to build Texas. Over its 134‑year history, the site hosted sugarcane production, cattle ranching, and oil drilling as it transitioned through the ownership of the Varners, the Pattons, and the Hoggs.

The Site Archeologist will not only work at these two significant sites, but occasionally at other THC-managed State Historic Sites in Texas. Work will involve overseeing the archeological and preservation planning for the historic Levi Jordan and Varner-Hogg Plantations; assisting with the development and implementation of a Public Archeology program for the sites; conducting archeological field investigations, coordinating and assisting with the processing and analysis of artifact collections; and reporting on the results of investigations at the various State Historic Sites throughout the state. The successful applicant will work under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for use of initiative and independent judgment.

New on-site housing is available at the rate of $308.60 monthly. The housing rate is established by THC policy, calculated using federal guidelines, and may change annually according to market values. Utilities are included with the monthly rate. The house is 1600 square foot, three bedrooms, two baths, a two-car carport with storage, and an 800 square foot screened porch. The house has all major appliances including washer and dryer.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

1. Assist the Chief Archeologist with the development and implementation of a Public Archeology program for the sites.
2. Assist the Chief Archeologist with the development of an Archeological Master Plan for the sites.
3. Coordinate all archeological activities and related research associated with the sites to ensure consistency and efficiency in execution.
4. Conduct archeological site evaluations and investigations related to Levi Jordan and Varner-Hogg Plantations SHS as well as at the other THC State Historic Sites when necessary.
5. Develop and implement archeological research designs.
6. Work closely with and supervise volunteers to conduct research projects; may provide related training.
7. Coordinate inter-agency and intra-agency archeological projects.
8. Report on the results of archeological investigations in technical, popular, and web-based formats.
9. Assist with the planning and execution of public events hosted at the Levi Jordan and Varner-Hogg Plantations SHS, including events that may not have an exclusive archeological focus.
10. Advise the public about rules/regulations and compliance issues relating to the Antiquities Code of Texas.
11. Provide public outreach activities, including assisting with the management of the Texas Archeology Month program hosted at the site, coordination with THC archeological stewards, and the promotion of archeological preservation to area landowners and the public.
12. Provide public outreach presentations in support of Levi Jordan and Varner-Hogg Plantations SHS.
13. Work with agency staff to develop and distribute web-based information about archeological preservation as it relates to Levi Jordan and Varner-Hogg Plantations.
14. May direct the work of interns and volunteers on special projects.
15. Adhere to established work schedule with regular attendance.
16. Follow all THC safety guidelines/procedures and ethics requirements.

NON-ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

1. Perform other duties as assigned related to site operations, including but not limited to daily operations, cash-handling/end-of-day processing, opening/closing procedures for museum, assignment of paid/unpaid staff related to daily operations.

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS (The application must specifically state how each of the following qualifications are met):

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master’s degree or higher in Anthropology, Archeology, or closely related field;
• Work experience in archeological field investigations, laboratory analysis, comprehensive technical report writing and archeological collections management work;
• Experience making public presentations;
• Must meet professional qualifications and be eligible to hold an Antiquities Permit issued by the Texas Historical Commission;
• Valid driver’s license, acceptable driving record and ability to drive a state vehicle; and
• Required to travel up to 30% of the work period.

PREFER:

• Work experience in historic archeology;
• Work experience in plantation-era archeology; and/or
• Work experience in African American archeology.

REGISTRATION, CERTIFICATION, OR LICENSURE:

Must have or obtain a valid Driver’s License and complete a Defensive Driving Course to be able to operate state vehicles.

ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL CONDITIONS: The Levi Jordan and Varner-Hogg Plantations SHS includes approximately 400 acres of land and historic buildings used for program and administrative support. Generally, the Site Archeologist will conduct duties in a normal office work environment within a new state-of-the art archeological laboratory facility. Exposure to dust and environmental allergens consistent with normal business activities and human contact should be expected. Work conditions will often involve walking; standing; pulling and pushing; kneeling, stooping, and bending; performing tasks requiring fine motor skills and coordination; and safely lifting and carrying items weighing up to 30 pounds. Excavation, cultural resource assessment, and related work will frequently take place outdoors in an environment that can be extremely hot and humid and that is subject to the discomforts of the southeast Texas region, including insects. Must be able work extended periods at a computer and may be required to work extended hours and some evenings and weekends, as needed. May involve occasional overnight travel.

REMARKS (Application procedures, Special requirements):  State of Texas application must be submitted through the CAPPS website. Only applicants interviewed will be notified of their selection or non-selection. Resumes will NOT be accepted in place of a completed application.

For additional information regarding our jobs, please visit https://www.thc.texas.gov/job-opportunities.