Archaeology Specialist

Full-time Description

DOES THIS DESCRIBE YOU?

Are you passionate about understanding past cultures and historical lifeways? Do you enjoy collecting and analyzing data or creating context-sensitive solutions? Do you want to assist indigenous people with protecting their sacred sites? Then, the opportunities offered by a career with Ascent Environmental as an Archaeology Specialist may be for you.

At Ascent, the Archaeology Specialist will have the opportunity not only to work for a leading Californian environmental firm and perform typical archaeological compliance work, such as archaeological survey, monitoring, archival research, site record preparation, and site evaluation, but will also have the opportunity to gain experience and knowledge working on both CEQA and NEPA projects of all levels and complexity in California and Nevada.

During a typical week at Ascent, an Archaeology Specialist might need to:

• Conduct pedestrian survey or archaeological monitoring approximately 30% of time.
• Collect resource data in the field using GPS technologies.
• Complete California Department of Parks and Recreation forms for cultural resources in accordance with the California Office of Historic Preservation guidelines.
• Produce preliminary project location and site location maps using USGS topographic and/or aerial imagery.
• Create and submit Sacred Lands File database search requests with the Native American Heritage Commission.
• Prepare and conduct preliminary Native American consultation for compliance with CEQA and/or Section 106.
• Perform or request archival research, including record searches with an Information Center, and summarize the results in reports.
• Author cultural resource report sections and related documentation; and
• Receive training and support to advance your environmental career.

Additional Functions (based on experience and education)

• AuthorIS/MND, EIR, EA, and EIS sections.
• Collaborate with agencies and tribes in the creation of Tribal cultural resource mitigation.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Requirements

• Master's Degree, or current enrollment in a Master's degree program, in archaeology or anthropology with an emphasis on archaeology
• Completion of an accredited archaeological field school, which included survey, recordation, and excavation experience, or demonstrate relevant experience in all three aspects
• Knowledge of federal and California laws and regulations pertaining to cultural resource protection and management, including AB 52

Competencies

• Proficiency in management of archaeological and tribal cultural resources within the context of SEPA
• Confident in working outside, in remote and rural settings, as well as in urban environments
• Meets the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Archaeology.
• Minimum of two years of field experience, including experience working on cultural resource management projects in California, preferably in Northern California.
• Minimum of two years of experience with archaeological monitoring and environmental compliance on major utility infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrated ability to perform all aspects of archaeological monitoring.
• Familiarity with working on construction sites, coordinating with construction personnel, and interacting with Native American monitors.
• Excellent verbal communication and writing skills
• Exceptional experience with archaeology and historic preservation statutes, regulations, policies, and guidelines
• Excellent writing and technical editing skills, with advanced experience in Microsoft Office
• Detail-oriented and committed to accuracy

Desired Education and Experience

• At least two years of experience in performing environmental compliance work in California or the Great Basin
• Experience in the identification, recordation, and evaluation of both prehistoric and historic-era archaeological resources
• Experience in planning, executing, and leading archaeological fieldwork
• Direct experience in the preparation of archaeological resource compliance documentation which included elements such as impact analysis, evaluations, mitigation measures, and/or treatment plans
• Positive direct experience in working with Native American tribes
• Experience in performing archaeological excavation
• Archaeological laboratory analysis, either through coursework or a field school

Work environment

• Typical office environment/Hybrid Work-from-Home

Physical Demands

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at a time.

Travel

• Limited travel may be required.

Work authorization/security clearance requirements Not eligible for sponsorship

Additional eligibility requirements N/A

At Ascent, we believe in fostering a nurturing environment that prioritizes our people. We are committed to holistic investments in our team, offering not only competitive salaries and comprehensive medical benefits, but also a range of perks designed to enhance emotional, financial, and physical wellness. A comprehensive listing of benefits offered can be found here. Interested in learning more about the Ascentian life? Reach out to our People Resources team at People.Resources@ascent.inc. We look forward to hearing from you!

Diversity Statement

Ascent is committed to creating a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging throughout all facets of the organization. We value and will strive to ascend by welcoming and uplifting all voices, ideas, achievements, and contributions, including those from marginalized communities and identities. We believe that recognizing and embracing our differences makes us a stronger organization. We commit to proactively nurturing environments of mutual support, respect, and caring for all through our words and actions. Join us on our journey.

Affirmative Action/EEO Statement?

Ascent provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Ascent is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, contact PeopleResources@ascent.inc.
Salary Description $56,160 - $87,360