Chief Archaeologist

St. Mary’s City was Maryland’s first settlement and for sixty-one years its colonial capital. After the capital moved to Annapolis, in 1695, the city was abandoned and becmae agricultural for the next 250 years. In 1966, the state established a museum to preserve, study and interpret the site, and archaeology has been underway since 1968. In addition to the rich 17^th-century resources, the lands contain hundreds of other sites including pre-colonial settlements, a contact Yaocomico village, 18^th and 19^th-century plantations with associated quarters of the enslaved laborers, and the farms of early 20^th-century Slavonic immigrants.

Historic St. Mary’s City is seeking an accomplished and skilled historical archaeologist to serve as the museum’s Chief Archaeologist. This full time State of Maryland research position will guide the archaeological program, conduct and supervise excavations and analysis, and produce reports and publications.   Their primary duty is to lead the exploration of 17th-century Maryland and its first capital, share the results, and help develop appropriate exhibits about its sites and the early colony.  

Other responsibilities are to insure the preservation of sites and archaeological evidence, and manage cultural resources within the St. Mary’s City National Historical Landmark, in collaboration with other staff.   The individual will teach the annual archaeological field school, now in its 45th year. An ability to interact with the public is important, and exhibit development experience is desirable.  

The successful applicant must have a M. A. degree (a Ph.D. is preferred), 10 years of archaeological experience with progressive supervisory responsibility, and a record of publication.   An individual with experience in the colonial archaeology of Eastern North America is preferred, especially in the Chesapeake and/or Middle Atlantic regions.   Superior public speaking skill, the ability to conduct quality scholarly research, and effective writing are essential.  

To be considered for this position please send your resume, three professional references and a sample of writing or publication in pdf form to porziap@digshistory.org. If you prefer to mail these items, please mail them to: Porzia Purves, Personnel, P.O. Box 39, St. Mary’s City, MD 20686

Salary is dependent on experience and there is an excellent benefits package. For a detailed job description please contact porziap@digshistory.org. Review and interviews will begin immediately after the closing date with a decision anticipated in early April.

Closing Date: 11 March 2016

HSMC is an EEO organization.