Laboratory Archaeologist; Arizona

Laboratory Archaeologist – Full‑Time – Tucson, AZ
Job Code: _25

SEARCH has an opening for a Full‑Time Laboratory Archaeologist to join our Archaeology Lab team in Tucson, Arizona. The role involves working in a cohesive laboratory environment, analyzing archaeological material from intake to curation in support of multiple projects for Federal and State government agencies.

SEARCH provides a flexible work environment, a professional and collaborative atmosphere, and a wide range of projects and opportunities for staff. Benefits include medical, dental, vision insurance; group term life insurance; 401(k) plan with match; 11 paid holidays per year; paid time off (PTO); and a competitive total compensation package.

• Intake, organize, analyze, and prepare archaeological artifacts for analysis (including artifact stability assessment and washing)
• Maintain artifact provenience at all stages of lab analysis.
• Perform general analysis on a full range of material culture artifacts.
• Conduct independent research of lithics and other artifacts as needed.
• Draft artifact descriptions for inclusion in technical reports.
• Assist with photographing and editing artifacts for report graphics.
• Write and label artifacts and bags clearly and precisely.
• Perform curation activities to project standards.
• Independently finalize and deliver curated projects.
• Assist in delivering finalized data to Principal Investigators/Project Managers.
• Perform data entry using Microsoft Access and Excel.
• Maintain strict adherence to budgeted hours and project goals.
• Comply and adhere to established laboratory procedures, protocols, and health and safety procedures.
• Assist in daily monitoring of laboratory duties.
• Assist in maintaining project and curation inventories.
• Maintain lab organization.
• Track lab supplies and inform the Lab Manager when supplies are low.
• Keep appraised of research literature regarding artifact analysis.
• Maintain knowledge regarding industry standards in archaeological curation.
• Keep a list of technical and analytical skills, updating it upon learning new skills.
• Travel, possibly for extended periods, to other SEARCH offices and lead laboratory projects and field labs.
• Maintain the highest professional image for our clients, co‑workers, media, and the public.
• Possess a positive attitude and strong work ethic, promoting SEARCH values across the company.
• Other duties, as assigned.

• Degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or a related field.
• Minimum two years laboratory experience in the identification of archaeological artifacts.
• Knowledge of methods pertaining to the recovery, treatment, identification, and qualitative, quantitative, and statistical analysis of cultural materials.
• Demonstrated knowledge of identification and analysis of Southwestern cultural materials.
• Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory curation standards and methodologies.
• Prior archaeology fieldwork experience.
• Completion of an archaeological field school.
• Technical writing ability.
• The ability to work well in a team environment, under the direction of a Laboratory Director and/or Laboratory Manager.

• Post‑graduate degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience with Arizona State Museum curation methodologies and standards.
• Specialist/experienced with Southwestern lithics, ceramics, faunal, and shell materials in archaeological contexts.
• Understanding of the Cultural Resource Management (CRM) industry at the regional, national, and worldwide level.

• Cover letter.
• Resume.
• References.
• Writing samples (if a collaborative report, identify sections authored) of material analysis and dissemination of findings.

• This position will require flexible availability outside of standard working hours.
• Applicants must be eligible to be employed in the United States.
• SEARCH is strongly committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where a variety of backgrounds, cultures, orientations, ideas, and talents can flourish.
• SEARCH is an equal‑opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to…