Archaeologist Writer

Job Summary

The Archaeologist Writer provides technical expertise in archaeological research, laboratory analysis, cultural resource documentation, and technical report development in support of disaster recovery efforts for a federal agency. This position supports federal projects by conducting archaeological laboratory analysis, developing historic and precontact contexts, synthesizing archaeological and geospatial data, and preparing technical documentation required for compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA), and other federal cultural resource regulations.

No

Permanent;
Full Time, Non Exempt

Asheville, NC

Travel up to 75% (Travel required throughout the National Forests in North Carolina)

This role is anticipated to last 6 months, with the possibility of extension pending contract options.

• Conduct archaeological laboratory analysis of precontact and historic-period artifacts in support of cultural resource investigations and disaster recovery projects.
• Develop comprehensive precontact and historic context overviews through archival research, literature review, and analysis of archaeological and historical data.
• Research and prepare historic contexts that establish thematic, temporal, and geographic frameworks for evaluating cultural resources and historic properties.
• Prepare technical reports documenting archaeological laboratory findings, artifact analyses, and cultural resource investigations.
• Author and contribute to NHPA Section 106 reports, NHPA Section 110 reports, ARPA reports, NEPA specialist reports, and other cultural resource compliance documentation.
• Synthesize archaeological field data, laboratory results, geospatial information, and archival research into clear, accurate, and defensible technical reports.
• Prepare cultural resource inventory reports, site documentation, monitoring reports, and archaeological survey summaries.
• Analyze and interpret archaeological data collected through field investigations, including artifact assemblages, site records, and spatial datasets.
• Conduct historic and cultural landscape analyses using archival research, literature reviews, field inventories, and oral history interviews.
• Evaluate landscape characteristics and document historic land use patterns, physical features, and integrity in accordance with established historic contexts.
• Assist with the interpretation of specialized cultural resource investigations, including Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), metal detector surveys, LiDAR analyses, and other remote sensing technologies.
• Perform literature reviews, archival searches, and records research to support cultural resource evaluations and project planning.
• Coordinate records management activities, including organizing, digitizing, and transferring archaeological documentation and survey files to federal agency staff.
• Convert hard-copy archaeological records into organized electronic files using established file naming conventions and records management procedures.
• Develop interpretive products that communicate cultural and historical information to the public, including exhibits, brochures, interpretive signs, educational materials, web content, and digital media.
• Assist in the development of interpretive plans for visitor centers, scenic byways, special interest areas, historic properties, and other public education initiatives.
• Provide logistical support for Section 106 consultation meetings, Tribal consultation activities, and other historic preservation coordination efforts.
• Coordinate with federal agency, Tribal representatives, and interdisciplinary project teams.
• This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

• Strong knowledge of archaeological laboratory methods, artifact identification, and curation procedures.
• Knowledge of federal cultural resource compliance requirements, including NHPA, NEPA, ARPA, and Section 106 consultation.
• Experience developing historic contexts and evaluating archaeological resources.
• Strong technical writing, editing, and documentation skills.
• Ability to synthesize archaeological, historical, archival, and geospatial data into comprehensive technical reports.
• Knowledge of archaeological survey methods, excavation documentation, and laboratory processing techniques.
• Familiarity with National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) evaluation criteria and historic preservation standards.
• Ability to conduct archival research, literature reviews, and historical document analysis.
• Experience managing archaeological records and digital documentation.
• Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to…