Job Description
Summary of Work
Are you passionate about archaeology and preserving history? Join the State Historical Society of North Dakota (SHSND) as an Archaeology Collections Assistant.
You'll play a critical role assisting in the curation of pre-contact and historical artifacts, cataloging archaeological documentation, working with volunteers, and making history accessible to the public. This is your opportunity to contribute to preserving North Dakota's rich heritage.
The SHSND's mission is to Empower Through History by working with people and communities to protect, interpret, and share North Dakota's rich history and cultural heritage. We are currently working on an expansion project in partnership with the North Dakota National Guard to develop a new military gallery. This initiative represents a significant growth opportunity for our institution, making it a dynamic time to join our team.
Duties and Tasks
- Processing collections following SHSND guidelines, including re-housing into archival materials, labeling artifacts and folders, cataloging artifacts and paper records, relocating items, photographing diagnostic objects, and digitizing documentation.
- Assisting volunteers, archaeological contractors, researchers, and other staff in the lab and collections.
- Provide public engagement through lab and collections tours, artifact identifications, and general inquiries.
- Monitor and record environmental data related to collections care.
- Prepare artifacts for exhibits and outgoing loans.
- Participate in state and federal collection audits.
- Contribute to the preparation of documentation and collections for NAGPRA compliance.
Minimum Qualifications
- A bachelor's degree in anthropology, archaeology, history, museum studies, or related discipline and at least one year of related experience.
- Experience with artifact identification, cataloging, proper handling, and storage.
- Familiarity with database or cataloging software.
- Must be familiar with the archaeology and history of the Northern Plains region.
- Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
- Ability to ascend/descend ladders and stairs.
- Must have a valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in Re:Discovery's Proficio cataloging software or Interior Collection Management System (ICMS) software.
- Previous collections or museum-related experience.
- Archaeological fieldwork experience in the Northern Plains region with preference for experience in North Dakota.
- A master's degree in archaeology anthropology, archaeology, history, museum studies, or related discipline.
About Team ND
"Far and away the best prize life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing." - Theodore Roosevelt
More than 7,500 talented, hard-working people across sixty-three agencies have come together as Team North Dakota. At Team ND, we are driven to succeed through gratitude, humility, curiosity and courage. Our purpose is to empower people, improve lives, and inspire success. Join us in being legendary.
Total Rewards: The State of North Dakota is committed to providing team members with a strong and competitive rewards package that support you, your health and your family.
Considering a new position on Team ND? How does your current position stack up? Use our Total Rewards Calculator to estimate.
Application Procedures
All applications must be submitted via the Career site at Paper submissions are not accepted. Application packages must be submitted online by 11:59 PM CST on the closing date listed on the posting.
Application packages must include cover letter, resume, and three work-related references. Applicants will be scored on a 100-point candidate questionnaire to be considered for interviews; please provide detail in responses to the questionnaire. Applicants who experience difficulties during the application process should contact recruiter@nd.gov or 701.328.3290.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The State Historical Society does not provide Sponsorships.
For more information or if you need accommodation or assistance in the application or selection process, contact Erica Houn at ehoun@nd.gov or 701.328.2327.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The State of North Dakota and this hiring agency do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), genetics, religion, age or disability in employment or the provisions of services and complies with the provisions of the North Dakota Human Rights Act.
As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. § 23-12-10.
Job Tags
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