Become an Archeologist with the National Park Service: A Unique Opportunity in Colorado
Do you have a passion for history, cultural preservation, and the rugged outdoors? The National Park Service (NPS) is currently offering an exciting career opportunity for a professional Archeologist at the spectacular Dinosaur National Monument in Colorado. This role is more than just a job; it is a chance to serve as a steward for one of the most significant geological and cultural landscapes in the United States.
Job Responsibilities
As an Archeologist (GS-11), your work will be diverse and highly impactful. Core duties include:
- Serving as the monument’s lead for Section 106 and 110 compliance.
- Conducting field surveys, excavations, and monitoring to protect park resources.
- Advising management on cultural resource impacts and mitigation strategies.
- Coordinating with Tribes and State Historic Preservation Offices.
- Managing archeological collections and utilizing GIS/GPS for mapping and data management.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must demonstrate a blend of academic achievement and hands-on professional experience. You must be a U.S. citizen and meet the mandatory education requirements in archeology and related fields.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen or National |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree or higher with specific archeological coursework |
| Experience | At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level |
| Physicality | Must be capable of strenuous field work in diverse, rugged terrain |
Salary Overview
This position is compensated at the GS-11 level, with an annual salary range of $74,678 to $97,087. This competitive pay structure reflects the professional responsibilities and the specialized nature of the expertise required for this role.
Benefits
Employees of the National Park Service enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support both professional and personal well-being. This includes federal health insurance, a robust retirement plan (FERS), paid annual and sick leave, and flexible work arrangements including potential telework options.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of success, ensure your resume is precise. Use a 10-point font, keep it under two pages, and explicitly state your work hours. Avoid common pitfalls by ensuring all supporting documentation is uploaded correctly and that you have completed the required assessment questionnaire in full.
Working as an Archeologist at Dinosaur National Monument offers a rare blend of professional challenge and breathtaking scenery. If you meet the qualifications and are eager to contribute to the preservation of American heritage, apply today via the USAJOBS portal.
Why This Archeologist Job Matters
Join the team at Dinosaur National Monument and take charge of preserving a world-class geologic and cultural treasure trove.
Archeologist Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking a dedicated Archeologist to work at Dinosaur National Monument in Dinosaur, Colorado. This permanent, full-time position puts you at the forefront of cultural resource stewardship, managing sites that hold rich records of Northern Ancestral Puebloan culture and internationally significant prehistoric findings. As a key advisor to park management, you will lead complex compliance processes, conduct field investigations, and ensure the protection of our nation's history for future generations.
Requirements for Archeologist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Possess a valid state driver's license to operate government vehicles.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period.
- Compliance with federal uniform standards.
- Must meet strict educational requirements, including specific semester hours in archeology, theory, methods, and field school.
- Successfully pass an E-Verify employment check.
- Ability to perform strenuous physical activity in varied and potentially hazardous environments.
Preferred Qualifications for Archeologist
- Demonstrated experience in Section 106 compliance under the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA).
- Expertise in utilizing GPS and GIS software for archeological data collection and analysis.
- Proven track record in writing Determinations of Eligibility and National Register Nominations.
- Experience in coordinating consultations with State Historic Preservation Offices and Native American Tribes.
- Strong background in managing archeological collections according to museum standards.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- âś“Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- âś“Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- âś“Life insurance coverage options.
- âś“Potential for telework opportunities with supervisor approval.
- âś“Uniform allowance.
- âś“Access to a variety of professional development and training programs.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Archeologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Archeologist Job
- Review the full job announcement carefully to ensure you meet all criteria.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, following the required formatting guidelines.
- Gather all academic transcripts to demonstrate meeting the mandatory education requirements.
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire via the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit your full application package including all supporting documents by the closing date of November 10, 2026.
- Monitor your USAJOBS account for updates on your application status.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your weekly hours (e.g., '40 hours per week') to receive full credit for your experience.
- Do not include personal photographs in your application materials.
- Tailor your resume to reflect the specific competencies listed in the job duties section.
- Use standard 10-point font and maintain at least 0.5-inch margins on all sides.
- Verify that your transcripts clearly display your name, institution, and conferred degree details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, the duties of this role are suitable for telework, subject to supervisor approval.
What is the physical nature of the work?
The position requires significant physical activity, including walking, climbing, and lifting, often in rugged or remote field conditions.
What is the closing date for this position?
*A: The deadline to apply is November 10, 2026.*
Is housing provided?
*A: The vacancy announcement does not specify housing; however, the communities of Vernal, UT, and Rangely, CO, are within a convenient commuting distance.*
Job from National Park Service
The Department of the Interior and the National Park Service are dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural resources that define our nation. Dinosaur National Monument spans 211,000 acres, offering a treasure trove of Jurassic-era fossils and a deep history of Northern Ancestral Puebloan culture. By joining this team, you will contribute to an agency that balances preservation, education, and public enjoyment.