Assistant Archaeologist
New Job Posted
The Department of Archaeology and Landscapes at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest seeks to hire the position of Assistant Archaeologist. This is a full-time position with benefits. The successful candidate will work alongside department staff to conduct ongoing archaeological excavations and laboratory analysis at Thomas Jefferson’s retreat home and plantation.
The successful candidate must possess excellent skills in excavating historic sites (three years of field experience is preferred) and have pertinent experience with material culture analysis. Previous supervisory experience is welcome. The candidate should also possess strong communication, organizational, writing, interpersonal, and computer skills. The ability to work in a positive, energetic, and enthusiastic manner as part of a collaborative team environment is essential.
The position will work alongside the department’s professional staff to implement all phases of archaeological research. This includes carrying out excavations, contributing to reports, creating and managing field records, processing artifacts, and performing laboratory research and analysis. Previous experience with the identification, analysis, and cataloguing of historic period material culture is desired. Other responsibilities include assisting department staff in supervising seasonal field crew, interns, students, and volunteers; interpreting archaeology to the public; connecting with descendant communities; digitizing maps; conducting historical research; participating in public programs and professional organizations; assisting with the development of online content and exhibits; and carrying out related tasks as needed.
A bachelor’s degree in anthropology, archaeology, or a related discipline with an archaeology field school and an emphasis on historical archaeology is required. Previous professional experience and/or graduate training working in field and laboratory settings is necessary, including the excavation of complex stratigraphy and the identification of eighteenth and nineteenth century material culture. Individuals who are active, hardworking, and eager to learn with research interest in landscape archaeology, plantation communities, public archaeology, and historic material culture are encouraged to apply. Previous experience working in the mid-Atlantic region is a plus.
The Corporation for Jefferson’s Poplar Forest offers a compensation package that includes competitive pay, medical coverage, retirement plan, and paid vacation, sick, and holiday leave. Salary will be commensurate with the applicant’s credentials, experience, and market forces.
How to apply:
Applications may be submitted via email (eric@poplarforest.org) or mailed to Dr. Eric Proebsting, Director of Archaeology and Landscapes, Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, P.O. Box 419, Forest, VA 24551. Applications should include a letter of interest, a resume or curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information of three references.
Contact Eric Proebsting (eric@poplarforest.org) with any questions related to this position. Initial screening of applicants will begin December 5, 2022, with applications accepted until the position is filled.