Embark on a Career in Archaeology at Death Valley National Park
Are you looking to turn your academic background in archaeology into real-world experience? Death Valley National Park is seeking motivated individuals to serve as seasonal Archaeological Technicians. This role is perfect for those who want to blend scientific research with field exploration in one of the most rugged and beautiful landscapes in the United States.
Job Responsibilities
As an Archaeological Technician, you will be involved in every stage of the cultural resource management lifecycle, including:
- Conducting surveys to identify archaeological features.
- Managing site documentation through maps, databases, and standard forms.
- Performing supervised excavations and artifact recovery.
- Cleaning, labeling, and processing artifacts for curation.
- Providing leadership to field crews to meet project timelines.
- Preparing technical reports for management review.
Requirements & Qualifications
To succeed in this role, you must meet strict federal requirements.
| Qualification Area | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Experience | 1 Year of specialized experience at GS-6 level or equivalent |
| Education | 18 graduate-level credits in Archaeology/Anthropology |
| Age | Minimum 18 years old |
| License | Valid State-issued driver's license |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly rate ranging from $24.18 to $31.43, based on the GS-07 pay scale. Actual compensation is determined by federal pay regulations and relevant experience.
Benefits
Working with the NPS provides unique perks, including a uniform allowance and the chance to live and work in an incredible natural environment. While housing is not guaranteed, the agency may provide guidance on available government quarters.
Application Tips
- Keep it Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less. Excess pages will disqualify you.
- Be Specific: Always state the number of hours worked per week. "Full-time" is vague; use concrete numbers.
- Validate Education: Ensure transcripts are legible and include all necessary academic details.
- Monitor Your Status: Check the USAJOBS dashboard periodically for updates on your application status.
This is more than just a job; it is a gateway to a professional career in cultural resource management. If you are prepared for the challenges of field work and the rigors of historical documentation, apply today to join the National Park Service at Death Valley.
Why This Archaeological Technician (Seasonal) Job Matters
Uncover the secrets of the past in one of America’s most iconic landscapes! Join the National Park Service in Death Valley as an Archaeological Technician and turn your passion for history into professional field experience.
Archaeological Technician (Seasonal) Job Overview
Death Valley National Park is seeking dedicated Archaeological Technicians to support the identification, documentation, and preservation of invaluable cultural resources. This seasonal position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in field survey, site excavation, and artifact curation within a world-renowned environment. You will play a vital role in protecting our nation's heritage while working in both remote field locations and office settings.
Requirements for Archaeological Technician (Seasonal)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must possess a valid State-issued driver’s license.
- Must be at least 18 years of age (or 16 with specific educational criteria).
- Must pass a background investigation for suitability and fitness.
- Must submit a 2-page maximum resume detailing hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- Must successfully complete an online assessment questionnaire.
- Males must meet Selective Service registration requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Archaeological Technician (Seasonal)
- One full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-6 level in federal service.
- Proficiency in archaeological excavation, mapping, and artifact screening techniques.
- Experience in data management, report writing, and record searches.
- Successful completion of at least 18 graduate-level credits in archaeology or anthropology.
- Strong leadership skills for monitoring and guiding field crews.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay range
- ✓Uniform allowance provided
- ✓Invaluable professional experience with the National Park Service
- ✓Opportunities for professional networking in the cultural resources field
- ✓Potential access to government housing
💡 How to Apply Archaeological Technician (Seasonal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Archaeological Technician (Seasonal) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two single-sided pages.
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary documents, including transcripts and veteran documentation if applicable.
- Review your application package for accuracy and submit by the deadline.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly lists hours worked per week (e.g., 40+ hours) to receive credit for experience.
- Use month/year format for all employment dates.
- Do not upload documents with photographs, as they will be removed.
- Double-check that all required supporting documents are indexed correctly.
- Submit early, as the announcement may close once a specific number of applications is reached.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit a three-page resume?
No, the requirement is strictly two single-sided pages. Resumes longer than this will be rejected.
Is housing provided?
Government housing may be available but is not guaranteed. You are encouraged to contact the park directly for information regarding local availability.
What happens if I forget to list hours worked per week?
If your resume does not clearly reflect the number of hours worked per week, you may not receive credit for your experience, which could result in an ineligible rating.
How many hours will I work?
Positions are not to exceed 1560 hours in a service year.
Is this a permanent role?
No, these are temporary seasonal appointments.
Job from National Park Service
The National Park Service (NPS) is dedicated to preserving the unimpaired natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System. By joining the team at Death Valley, you contribute directly to the stewardship of diverse historical and pre-contact sites, ensuring that our nation's heritage is studied, protected, and interpreted for generations to come.