Become an Archeologist with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
Are you a professional archeologist looking to transition into a career where your work directly protects the landscape and its history? The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is currently seeking an Archeologist to join their team in Des Moines, Iowa. This is an exciting opportunity to apply your technical skills in a mission-driven environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Cultural Resources Specialist, your work will be diverse and highly impactful. You will:
- Conduct field investigations to identify and document archeological sites.
- Author comprehensive technical reports to ensure compliance with cultural preservation laws.
- Advise field staff on the protection of cultural and historical resources during conservation projects.
- Engage in tribal consultations to address the sensitivities and preservation needs of indigenous heritage.
- Develop policies and procedures to integrate cultural resource protection into agency programs.
Comparison: Office vs. Field Work
| Feature | Office Environment | Field Environment |
|---|---|---|
| Tasks | Reporting, Policy, Consultations | Surveying, Excavation, Mapping |
| Physicality | Sedentary | Moderate/High (Climbing/Walking) |
| Equipment | Computers/Databases | Testing Tools/Protective Gear |
Requirements
To qualify, candidates must be U.S. citizens and demonstrate specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 or GS-12 grade levels. You must have a strong academic background in archeology, anthropology, or a related field, specifically including a certified archeological field school. Furthermore, applicants must pass a background check and complete mandatory USA Hire assessments.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $75,284 to $117,307 per year. Beyond the salary, employees enjoy the comprehensive federal benefits package, including health insurance, generous leave, and a robust retirement plan.
Application Tips
- Resume Precision: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. Keep it focused on relevant field and technical achievements.
- Documentation: Ensure all transcripts are legible and clearly show the required coursework.
- Assessment Readiness: Dedicate 1-2 hours to the USA Hire assessment as soon as you receive the link after applying.
The role of an Archeologist with the NRCS is for those who value public service and environmental stewardship. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to submit your application and start your journey with the USDA today.
Why This Archeologist Job Matters
Protect our nation's heritage while championing vital conservation efforts in the heart of Iowa. As a Cultural Resources Specialist with the USDA, you will bridge the gap between historic preservation and modern land management.
Archeologist Job Overview
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Des Moines, Iowa, is seeking a dedicated Archeologist to serve as a Cultural Resources Specialist. This role is pivotal in ensuring that agency programs and conservation activities respect and protect historical and cultural sites. You will provide essential guidance to field teams, facilitate tribal consultations, and ensure environmental compliance, directly influencing how we protect the land while supporting agricultural productivity.
Requirements for Archeologist
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Registration with Selective Service (if born after 12/31/1959)
- Possession of a valid state driver's license
- Successful completion of a background investigation
- Agreement to a one-year probationary period
- Completion of required USA Hire online assessments
- Ability to perform field work involving walking, bending, and carrying up to 20 pounds in varying weather conditions
Preferred Qualifications for Archeologist
- Bachelor's degree or higher in Archeology, Anthropology, History, or American Studies with required coursework in field school and specific analytical techniques
- Direct experience in archeological survey, excavation, and laboratory analysis
- Proven ability to act as a crew chief or direct team activities on archeological projects
- Expertise in producing technical cultural resource assessment reports
- Professional experience with tribal consultation and federal compliance regulations
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Health and Life Insurance options
- ✓Federal Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid Federal Holidays and Leave
- ✓Flexible Telework Opportunities
- ✓Recruitment or Relocation Incentives (if applicable)
- ✓Professional Development and Career Advancement
💡 How to Apply Archeologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Archeologist Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages.
- Click 'Apply Online' and complete the required questionnaires.
- Upload all necessary documents, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire assessment within the specified window.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
- Clearly highlight your field experience and technical report-writing skills.
- Submit your application well before the 11:59 PM ET deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Use official transcripts to verify your education; unofficial copies are allowed for the initial phase, but official ones are required later.
- Check your email notifications regularly after submission for assessment links.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, the position involves both office work and regular, recurring field work in rural or forest environments.
Can I work remotely?
The position is eligible for telework as determined by agency policy, though you must be based in the Des Moines, Iowa area.
What is the assessment process?
Applicants must complete the USA Hire competency-based assessments within 48 hours of the closing date window. This is a mandatory step.
What if I have foreign education?
*A: You must provide a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency from a recognized evaluation organization.*
Is a driver's license required?
*A: Yes, as you will need to operate vehicles for travel to various field survey sites.*
Job from Natural Resources Conservation Service
The NRCS is a premier conservation agency with a simple but profound mission: "Helping people help the land." With over 3,000 locations nationwide, the agency works alongside farmers, ranchers, and forest managers to implement sustainable conservation systems. By joining this team, you become a guardian of both natural resources and our nation's cultural heritage.