Collections Associate Texas Archeological Research Laboratory

Collections Associate – Texas Archaeological Research Laboratory

Hiring Department:
Texas Archaeological Research Laboratory

Position Open To:
All Applicants

Weekly Scheduled

Hours:

40

FLSA Status:
Non‑Exempt

Earliest

Start Date:

Immediately

Position Duration:
Expected to Continue Until Feb 16, 2028

Location:

PICKLE RESEARCH CAMPUS

Purpose

The Collections Associate supports the Texas Archaeological Research Laboratory (TARL) with ongoing rehabilitation projects and curatorial services throughout the facility. Reporting to the Head of Collections, the Associate will assist with daily tasks of artifact collections management: researching, records organization, rehabilitation, cataloging, accessing, preserving, evaluating collections, and determining priority of needs. They will help to supervise Collections staff and volunteers, and may provide assistance to researchers and visitors seeking access.

Other job duties may be assigned as needed. This is a fixed‑term position for two years from the start date.

• Conduct collections and records inventory, rehabilitation, and rehousing projects (research, reconciliation, cleaning, sorting, repackaging, re‑inventorying) as needed.
• Process incoming curation materials and collections with other TARL departments; provide curatorial services to external agencies to bring submissions to TARL standards.
• Work in tandem with TARL departments to update the repository database system (prepare and enter data, track movement of artifacts, revise information and discrepancies).
• Aid the Head of Collections in supervising and training temporary staff, students and volunteers; assist researchers as needed.
• Perform other job duties as needed.

Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology (with a focus on archaeology) or Archaeological Studies with two years of experience in the field laboratory, or Master’s degree in Anthropology (with a focus on archaeology) or Archaeological Studies. Working knowledge of collections management systems (CMS software). Knowledgeable in the ethics, legal issues, and best practices governing archaeological collections and a working knowledge of 36

CFR
79 and NAGPRA regulations as well as state and federal cultural resources laws. Proficiency in Texas archaeology and adjacent states of the US and Mexico. Proficiency with Microsoft Windows software including Excel, Word, and Access. Excellent verbal and written skills, ability to work independently and as part of a team, proven ability to communicate effectively with a broad and varied audience.

Equivalent combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Master’s degree in Anthropology (with a focus on archaeology), Archaeological Studies, Museum Science or Museum Studies, with strong archaeological background. Demonstrated familiarity with archaeology or ancestral material culture of the Texas region, including ceramic typology. More than three years’ experience in a curatorial/collections position focused on archaeological collections (preference given to persons with experience in museum-type collections environment rather than field preparation).

Proven ability to exercise sound judgment and decision‑making regarding archaeological collections stewardship. Familiarity with interior climate control systems. Working knowledge of digital camera and Photoshop. Knowledge of integrated pest management for collections. Demonstrated experience managing collection management systems (CMS software). Demonstrated experience working with student interns. Working knowledge of Texas Antiquities Code, Section 106, NAGPRA and other relevant legislation. Ability to interface with visiting researchers, students, and governmental entities in a diplomatic manner.

Experience with outreach activities. Excellent verbal and written skills, ability to work independently and as part of a team, proven ability to communicate effectively with a broad and varied audience.

$47,000 plus depends on qualifications.

May work in all weather conditions; may work in extreme temperatures; may work around chemicals or chemical…