Become a Federal Archeologist: Protecting Heritage with the USDA NRCS

Are you a dedicated professional in the field of archaeology with a passion for public service? The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is currently seeking a highly qualified Archeologist to join our team in Idaho. This role offers a unique opportunity to apply your expertise in cultural resource management to protect our nation's working landscapes.

Job Responsibilities

In this position, you will act as a specialist in cultural resources, balancing regulatory compliance with agency project implementation. Your daily duties will include:

Field Investigations: conducting on-site assessments and creating professional-quality documentation.
Technical Leadership: developing and maintaining technical guides for cultural resource protection.
Compliance: managing tribal consultations and ensuring all projects meet national environmental and historical standards.
Communication: providing expert guidance to field employees and stakeholders regarding complex archaeological laws and guidelines.

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-12 position, applicants must meet specific federal requirements:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Licensing: Must possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's license.
Compliance: Must pass an E-Verify check and background investigation.
Documentation: Applicants must submit a comprehensive resume not exceeding two pages, along with official or unofficial transcripts.

Salary and Comparison

This position offers a competitive federal salary. Below is a quick overview:

Position Title	Grade	Salary Range (Annual)
Archeologist	GS-12	$89,508 - $116,362

Benefits of Federal Employment

Working for the federal government provides a comprehensive suite of benefits, including:

Work-Life Balance: Telework eligibility and flexible scheduling.
Financial Incentives: Potential for recruitment or relocation bonuses depending on the applicant's qualifications and agency needs.
Stability: Federal service provides a secure career path with structured advancement and robust retirement benefits.

Application Tips

Watch the Clock: Ensure your submission is completed before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the closing date.
Format Matters: Stick strictly to the two-page resume limit. Submissions over two pages will be excluded from consideration.
Assessments: Complete the USA Hire assessment as soon as you receive your link. Your results are often valid for up to one year for future applications.

This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the preservation of our collective history. If you are ready to combine your passion for the past with a career in public service, apply today to help the NRCS keep our working landscapes productive and protected.

Why This Archeologist Job Matters

Protect the past while shaping the future—join the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service as an Archeologist and preserve our nation's cultural heritage.

Archeologist Job Overview

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service is seeking a dedicated Archeologist to serve as a State Cultural Resources Specialist. In this vital role, you will bridge the gap between agricultural conservation and historical preservation. You will provide critical technical guidance to agency personnel, ensuring that NRCS activities comply with cultural resource regulations while protecting significant historical and Native American heritage sites throughout Idaho.

Requirements for Archeologist

Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must possess and maintain a valid state motor vehicle operator's license.
Successfully pass an E-Verify employment verification check.
Satisfactory adjudication of a background investigation and fingerprint check.
Commitment to a 1-year probationary period.
Resumes must not exceed a two-page limit.

Preferred Qualifications for Archeologist

Advanced professional experience in conducting archeological surveys and excavations.
Demonstrated ability to develop compliance policy and procedures for cultural resources.
Experience in tribal consultation and navigating Native American cultural resource issues.
Proven capability in technical writing for environmental and archaeological assessment reports.
Expertise in evaluating the significance of archaeological sites against National Register of Historic Places criteria.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Telework eligibility as determined by agency policy.
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
✓Federal employee benefits including health, retirement, and life insurance programs.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.

💡 How to Apply Archeologist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Archeologist Job

Carefully review the entire job announcement.
Prepare a resume that strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
Gather necessary documentation, including academic transcripts.
Click the 'Apply Online' button to start the USAStaffing process.
Complete all required questionnaires and assessments.
Submit your application package before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.

💡 General Tips

Do not exceed the two-page resume limit; excess pages will disqualify your application.
Ensure all uploaded documents are under 5MB and in supported formats like PDF or Word.
Double-check that your transcripts include course titles, credit hours, and grades.
Complete the USA Hire assessments promptly; you can stop and restart using the unique link provided.
Use the USAJOBS 'Track this application' feature to stay updated on your status.

Frequently Asked Questions

What locations are available for this position?

This position is located in Idaho with duty stations in Boise, Caldwell, Moscow, or Pocatello.

Is telework allowed?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework in accordance with agency policy.

What is the education requirement for a GS-12 level?

The GS-12 level generally requires specialized professional experience in the field; please review the OPM General Schedule Qualification Standards for full details regarding educational and experience requirements.

Do I need to be in Boise?

No, the position offers multiple locations throughout Idaho, including Caldwell, Moscow, and Pocatello.

Is relocation assistance available?

Recruitment and relocation incentives may be authorized for the right candidate.

Job from Natural Resources Conservation Service

The Natural Resources Conservation Service is a premier conservation agency under the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Our mission is to "help people help the land." We work alongside farmers, ranchers, and forest managers to implement science-based conservation systems that enhance soil, water, and habitat. As an Archeologist within the NRCS, you play a critical role in ensuring that these essential conservation projects are carried out with respect for our rich historical and cultural heritage.