POSITION SUMMARY:

The Archaeologist plays a key leadership role in supporting archaeological fieldwork, Section 106 compliance, and cultural resource documentation for the long-term development of the West Susitna Access Road project. This role works closely with the Knik Lead Archaeologist, Project Manager, and Field Supervisor to assess and document cultural sites while assisting with technology-driven survey improvements. With a focus on collaboration and professional growth, the Archaeologist will refine methodologies, enhance digital workflows, and ensure field efficiency in cultural site documentation.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The successful candidate will:

• Lead archaeological field surveys, documentation, and analysis of cultural sites.
• Oversee Section 106 compliance efforts through detailed coordination and reporting.
• Evaluate potential site locations based on survey findings to prioritize key areas of interest.
• Develop GIS mapping and geodatabase management strategies for cultural site documentation.
• Collaborate with the Lead Archaeologist to refine methodologies and integrate modern survey techniques.
• Ensure survey operations remain within designated easements, identifying key cultural makers such as house pits, grave sites, human remains, village sites, midden deposits, cultural artifacts, and modified trees.
  • Hold authority to temporarily halt field activities if cultural artifacts are discovered.
• Supervise field survey and data collection during 2025 cultural resource inventory and environmental review activities.
• Oversee daily operations with the Lead Archaeologist and field teams.
• Provide guidance to field supervisors and vegetation clearing teams to assess environmental impacts on cultural sites.
• Attend bi-weekly Knik West Su team meetings to serve as an expert resource in archaeological site management.
• Coordinate with state, DOT, and project stakeholders to align archaeological findings with development goals.
• Prepare technical reports for internal project leadership and regulatory agencies, with potential future reporting responsibilities to Tribal Council.
• Enhance survey methods by utilizing digital mapping tools, GPS, and geospatial databases.
• Support Tribal cultural preservation efforts by maintaining accurate records and research archives.
• Ensure traditional knowledge is recorded and considered in cultural site impact assessments.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS:

• Senior-level expertise required to meet Secretary of Interior qualifications for Principal Investigator (PI) on Section 106 projects.
• Experience in archaeological fieldwork, GIS mapping, and Section 106 compliance.
• Knowledge of tribal cultural preservation, DOT survey standards, and easement regulations.
• Ability to support the Knik Lead Archaeologist, Project Manager, and Field Supervisor in survey coordination.
• Strong documentation, leadership, and communication skills.
• Familiarity with vegetation clearing impacts and site protection strategies.
• Expertise in advancing survey methodologies and digital workflows.
• Ability to work independently and within a team setting.
• Ability to work outdoors in inclement weather and difficult terrain in remote fieldwork zones.
• Follow all DOT & PF and OSHA workplace safety policies, including wearing required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Master’s degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or related field.
• Five (5) + years of experience in archaeological fieldwork.
• Completion of an archaeology field school.
• RPA Registered Professional Archaeologist preferred.
• Familiarity with archaeological surveying software, geospatial databases, and GPS technologies.
• National Preservation Institute Certifications preferred: (Institute certifications are considered continuing education (CE) and do not substitute for required qualifications)
  • Examples:
    • GIS or Geospatial analysis Certification
    • Section 106 Compliance Training
    • Remote Sensing & Digital Mapping Training
• Must have a valid driver’s license and good driving record.
• Clean state and federal background check.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• Knowledge and experience of Knik Tribe’s Service Area and Knik Tribe’s Programs.
• Adequate understanding of all Microsoft Office Applications.
• Capable of basic maintenance for general office equipment and multi-line phone systems.
• Must pass a criminal background check and be free of barrier crimes.
• Clean driving record.
• Knowledge and application of professional and ethical conduct as guided by Knik Tribal Council Personnel Manual Section 8.1.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

NATIVE PREFERENCE STATEMENT: Pursuant to the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975 (PL 93-638) and as further guided by Knik Tribe Native Preference Policy 6.120, Knik Tribe maintains preference in all phases of employment for Alaska Native, American Indian (AN/AI) and Native Hawaiian people, including direct lineal descendants and foster or traditionally adopted children. Also included are non-Native heads of household members of Native families, which includes foster or traditionally adopted Native children.

DETAILS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• Location: 1800 N Laurel Dr, Palmer, AK 99645 and project site
• Supervisor: Natural Resource Director
• Schedule: Monday – Friday. 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Full-time (40 hrs/week), three-year position.
• Salary: $38.46 per hour. Plus full benefits: Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) medical, dental, vision, life insurance, paid leave and holidays, and retirement plan with matching contributions.

To Apply: Submit Resume to:

Human Resources at hr@kniktribe.org

For more information or to download the job description visit www.kniktribe.org/careers