Archeologist (GS-11) - Bureau of Reclamation, Billings, Montana

Are you passionate about uncovering the stories of the past and dedicated to preserving our nation's rich cultural heritage? The Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) is seeking a motivated and experienced Archeologist to join their team in Billings, Montana. This critical role involves ensuring compliance with federal laws concerning cultural resources and historic properties, contributing directly to the responsible management of water and related resources. If you possess a strong foundation in archaeological principles and a commitment to safeguarding historical artifacts and sites, this GS-11 position offers a rewarding career opportunity within a vital federal agency.

About the Agency: Bureau of Reclamation

The Department of the Interior (DOI) is entrusted with the stewardship of America's natural treasures and cultural heritage, providing essential scientific insights and upholding trust responsibilities to indigenous communities. Within the DOI, the Bureau of Reclamation stands as a leader in managing, developing, and protecting the nation's water and related resources in an environmentally and economically sound manner. Their mission is to support the American public through sustainable water management, infrastructure development, and a deep commitment to preservation. The Great Plains Region, where this position is located, plays a crucial role in managing water resources across a vast and diverse landscape.

Job Responsibilities: Unearthing and Protecting the Past

As an Archeologist at the Bureau of Reclamation's Montana Area Office (MTAO), you will serve as the primary functional specialist for all National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) compliance activities. Your responsibilities will be diverse and impactful, including:

• Compliance and Documentation: Preparing essential cultural resource and historic property documents required for federal compliance. This involves identifying potential impacts to cultural resources stemming from the planning, construction, operation, and maintenance of Reclamation projects.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working closely with a variety of professionals, including engineers, hydrologists, planners, facility managers, environmental specialists, and natural resource specialists. Your expertise will be crucial in identifying, minimizing, and mitigating adverse impacts to cultural resources and historic properties.
• Liaison and Consultation: Acting as MTAO's cultural resource liaison, you will engage with other Federal agencies, Indian tribes, and State and local entities. This ensures clear communication and understanding of NHPA responsibilities and Reclamation's compliance obligations.
• Technical Reporting and Assistance: Preparing specialized technical reports, such as those related to museum collections and historic properties. You will also provide vital technical assistance to government and contracting personnel involved in report preparation and permitting processes.
• Review and Interpretation: Evaluating and interpreting reports submitted to ensure they meet Reclamation's high standards. This includes offering expert advice on legislation such as the NHPA, 36 CFR Part 800, the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), and the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA).

Requirements and Qualifications: Building Your Foundation

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal requirements and possess the necessary qualifications. The position is open to the public and career transition candidates.

Basic Qualifications for Archeologist:

To qualify, applicants must meet the basic requirement for an Archeologist, which can be satisfied through education, experience, or a combination thereof:

• Education: A degree in archaeology or a related field that includes specific coursework such as the history of archaeology, regional archaeology, archaeological field school, and supporting courses in areas like geography, geology, history, or scientific writing. Transcripts are mandatory for verification.
• Related Curriculum: A degree in anthropology (with an emphasis on ethnology, physical anthropology, or scientific linguistics), history, American studies, or a similar discipline may be acceptable if the curriculum provided coursework equivalent to the specific archaeological requirements.
• Combination of Education and Experience: A college-level education or training equivalent to the above, combined with appropriate technical experience or further education.
• Experience: Four years of archaeological work experience demonstrating a thorough knowledge of professional archaeology principles, including significant archaeological field experience (which can include field school). This experience should cover survey, excavation, laboratory analysis, and report preparation.

Specialized Experience for GS-11:

In addition to the basic requirements, applicants must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 grade level. This specialized experience must demonstrate the competencies needed to perform the job duties successfully. Examples include:

• Planning and conducting archaeological investigations.
• Overseeing work related to historic preservation.
• Conducting cultural resource fieldwork, such as surveys and excavations.
• Performing field inspections, research, or assessments.

Alternatively, successful completion of 3 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. or a Ph.D. (or equivalent) in archaeology or a closely related field can satisfy the qualification requirement. A combination of graduate education and specialized experience is also acceptable.

Key Attributes and Other Requirements:

• Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
• Background Investigation: Appointment is subject to a favorable background investigation and adjudication.
• Selective Service: Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered.
• Direct Deposit: Required for payment.
• E-Verify: Must pass the E-Verify employment verification.
• Driver's License: A valid driver's license is mandatory.
• Travel: Willingness to travel overnight for fieldwork and meetings.
• Government Credit Card: Required to obtain and maintain a government credit card.
• Age: Must be at least 18 years old to operate government vehicles.
• Probationary Period: A one-year probationary period is required.

Salary Overview: Compensation and Benefits

This Archeologist position is classified at the GS-11 grade level. The annual salary ranges from $74,678 to $97,087, depending on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.

Benefits: Supporting Your Well-being

As a federal employee with the Bureau of Reclamation, you will have access to a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial security, and work-life balance. These typically include:

• Health Insurance: A choice of federal health plans.
• Dental and Vision Insurance: Separate coverage options available.
• Life Insurance: Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI).
• Retirement Plan: Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) with agency contributions.
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave (vacation), sick leave, and paid federal holidays.
• Flexible Spending Accounts: For healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training and career advancement.

Application Process: How to Apply

To apply for this exciting opportunity, follow these steps carefully:

1. Review Announcement: Read the entire job announcement and all instructions thoroughly.
2. Apply Online: Click the 'Apply Online' button on USAJOBS.
3. Complete Questionnaire: Answer all questions in the application questionnaire accurately and completely.
4. Attach Documents: Submit all required supporting documentation, including:
   • Resume: Must be no more than two pages, clearly detailing your experience (including hours worked per week), and demonstrating how you meet the specialized experience requirements. Federal resume writing guidance is available on USAJOBS.
   • Transcripts: If qualifying based on education, submit legible copies of all undergraduate and graduate transcripts.
   • Veterans' Preference Documentation: If applicable (e.g., DD-214).
   • CTAP/ICTAP Documentation: If applying under these programs.
5. Submit: Ensure your complete application package is submitted by the closing date: November 9, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET.

Important Notes:

• You can preview the application questionnaire here: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13097991
• You will receive a confirmation email upon submission. Monitor your USAJOBS account for status updates.
• Failure to submit required documents by the deadline will result in your application being considered incomplete and may lead to disqualification.
• Do not include photographs or Adobe portfolio documents with your application.

Application Tips: Standing Out from the Crowd

• Tailor Your Resume: Explicitly address the specialized experience and competencies listed in the announcement. Use keywords from the job description.
• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers and data to illustrate the scope and impact of your experience.
• Detail Hours Worked: For every position listed, clearly indicate whether it was full-time (40 hours/week) or part-time, specifying the number of hours worked per week.
• Proofread Meticulously: Ensure there are no typos, grammatical errors, or inconsistencies in your application materials.
• Check Transcript Requirements: Make sure your transcripts include all necessary information (name, school, credit hours, GPA, etc.).
• Understand Category Rating: Be aware that candidates are placed into categories (Qualified, Well Qualified, Best Qualified) based on their experience and ratings. Veterans' preference is applied within these categories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
What are the basic educational requirements for an Archeologist?	A degree in archaeology or a related field with specific coursework (e.g., history of archaeology, regional archaeology, field school) is required. Alternatively, a related degree with sufficient coursework or a combination of education and experience may qualify. Transcripts are mandatory.

                                                               |

| How is specialized experience defined for the GS-11 level? | Specialized experience requires at least one year equivalent to the GS-09 grade level, demonstrating skills in planning/conducting investigations, historic preservation support, cultural resource fieldwork, and field inspections/research. | | Can volunteer experience count towards qualifications? | Yes, volunteer experience is considered qualifying and can help build critical competencies and provide valuable training. | | What documentation is needed for veterans' preference? | Typically, a DD-214 (member 4 copy) is required. Specific documentation varies for disabled veterans, Purple Heart recipients, or parents/spouses of deceased/disabled veterans, often involving the SF-15 form. | | Is there a minimum age requirement? | Yes, applicants must be at least 18 years old to operate government vehicles. Other requirements, like Selective Service registration for certain males, also apply. | | What is the salary range for this position? | The annual salary ranges from $74,678 to $97,087. | | When is the application deadline? | The application closing date is November 9, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. | | What is the work environment like? | The majority of work is in an office setting. A small percentage involves fieldwork in potentially isolated areas, requiring walking, climbing, and bending. Fieldwork may occur in varied terrain and weather conditions. Concentration is key during survey phases, and awareness of wildlife is necessary. Standard archaeological equipment and 4WD vehicles are used. |

This Archeologist position with the Bureau of Reclamation represents a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to the preservation of cultural heritage while supporting essential water resource management in Montana. If you meet the qualifications and are driven by a passion for archaeology and public service, we encourage you to apply. Join a dedicated team committed to protecting America's past for the benefit of future generations.