As an ArchaeoCorps Service Member in the AmeriCorps program at the Archaeological Research Institute (ARI), your purpose is to actively contribute to the organization’s mission through responsible, ethical, and methodical archaeological research and public education. Your responsibilities will involve assisting in archaeological research both in the field and lab, educating the public about archaeology, land stewardship, and the significance of preservation, as well as managing various aspects of the organization’s operations. You will serve closely with interns, students, volunteers, and visitors in public archaeology programs, ensuring their understanding and active involvement. All service member positions will encompass a combination of public interpretation, fieldwork, and lab work, with a primary emphasis on engaging the public in archaeology and environmental stewardship.

Position Description:

The Experimental Archaeology Technician is tasked with assisting the Experimental Archaeology Project Manager with filling the gaps in our knowledge about the past, which cannot be filled through other archaeological research methods. An archaeological experiment must always answer a specific research question through practical testing production, use, and/or formation of material culture and/or archaeological features. The technician will help the manager with testing a hypothesis in direct reference to the archaeological record. The information gained should be impossible to obtain from solely examining original artifacts, The Experimental Archaeology Technician helps to manage the experimental archaeology program under the direction of the Archaeology coordinator and Director of Programming.

Reports to:

• Archaeology Coordinator & VALOR Director (ACVD)
• Director of Programming (DP)
• Director of Archaeology (DA)

Works with:

• Experimental Archaeology Program Manager
• ARI Staff
• ArchaeoCorps Members
• Certified Volunteers

Responsibilities:

Support the Experimental Archaeology Project Manager with the following tasks:

• Assists in managing Experimental programs for the public, staff, and volunteers.
• Assists with programming and events.
• Assists in developing experimental programs based on research questions we are seeking to research in which public involvement is required.
• Assists in coordinating with lab and field managers to identify when a research question can be answered through experimental means.
• Assists in maintaining proper dress in AmeriCorps/ARI Gear as required.
• Assists in Research, Scheduling, and Managing special guest artisans and demonstrators.
• Assists in Overseeing students and interns with experimental archaeology related projects.
• Assists in managing and maintaining equipment for experimental programs.
• Research Experimental Archaeology avenues to explore in programming.
• Assists with developing and gathering research and data on the experimental garden with the Land Stewardship Crew.
  • Assists in Creating educational materials for the public.Educational signage
  • Brochures and handouts
• Assisting in the setup of Experimental Archaeology programs
  • Atlatl Range
  • Activity tables
  • Popup tents
  • Work with Stew Crew on Experimental Gardens
• Assists in Identifying opportunities for volunteer assistance.
• Assists in notifying the Volunteer Coordinator of volunteer opportunities at least two weeks in advance (Thursday Afternoons).
• Assists with other educational programs when needed.
• Assist with GAP event and program setup, including the setup of feather flags, water jugs, pop-up tents, and any extra logistics support.
• Assist with archaeology lab and field work when needed.
• Assist with instructing and monitoring field and lab methods when needed.
• Drive the shuttle for scheduled visitors and camps when necessary.
• Assist with archaeology (including Artifact ID Day), outreach, fundraising, and operations when necessary
• Contribute to the quarterly Field Notes publication regarding research and programs at ARI

What are the Requirements?

• At least 18 years of age
• Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or another related field
• Completed a certified archaeological field school.
• Pass a federal background check.
• Possess a valid driver’s license.
• Comply with Uniform Policies
• Ability to communicate professionally verbally and in writing.
• Must be comfortable with engaging the public and explaining archaeological concepts.
• Proficiency with computer systems such as the Microsoft Office suite, OneDrive, ArcGIS (preferred).
• Be able to:
  • occasionally lift and/or move up to 30lbs
  • work in adverse weather conditions
  • walk briskly and over uneven terrain
  • stoop, kneel, reach, crouch, or crawl to perform essential job duties
  • sit or stand for a prolonged period

*Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform their essential duties

Timeframe of Position:

• January 2025-August 2025 (8 Months)

AmeriCorps Service Contract

• Serve 675 hours within your contract period
• Complete 12%-20% of training hours within your 675 hours

Compensation:

Living Stipend $10,125.00 (monthly installment payments paid twice per month)
Education Award: $2,817.14 (Granted upon completion of your contract)

Schedule:

• Schedule varies by season and bookings
• General Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9am to 5pm
• Mandatory Public Days: Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays 9am to 5pm
• Evenings and special event dates as scheduled

Please note that the selection committee for ARI committed to providing equal opportunity for all applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, HIV status, nation origin, veteran status, disability, creed, age, gender identity or expression, or other protected by law.

PLEASE NOTE: Service Positions are always contingent on AmeriCorps grant funding.