Archaeological Laboratory Analyst
Job Summary
The Archaeological Laboratory Analyst provides specialized archaeological laboratory support for a federal agency in support of disaster recovery initiatives. The Archaeological Laboratory Analyst is responsible for conducting archaeological laboratory analyses, artifact identification, archaeological data synthesis, and technical report preparation while ensuring collections are processed and curated in accordance with North Carolina Office of State Archaeology (NC OSA) and State Historic Preservation Office (NC SHPO) standards
Supervisory Responsibilities: No
Job Classification: Permanent; Full Time, Non Exempt
Duty Station: Asheville, NC
Travel: Travel up to 75% (Travel required throughout the National Forests in North Carolina)
Duration: This role is anticipated to last 6 months, with the possibility of extension pending contract options.
Duties/Responsibilities
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Conduct archaeological laboratory analysis of precontact and historic archaeological materials recovered during cultural resource investigations.
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Perform laboratory analyses including lithic analysis, flotation analysis, macrobotanical analysis, soil analysis, pottery residue analysis, and other specialized archaeological analyses.
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Analyze, identify, classify, and document archaeological artifacts using accepted archaeological methods and regional typologies.
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Conduct archaeological data synthesis by integrating laboratory findings with field records, geospatial data, archival research, and archaeological site documentation.
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Research archaeological typologies, artifact classifications, archival repositories, and comparative collections to support artifact identification and interpretation.
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Prepare archaeological technical reports summarizing laboratory findings, analytical methods, and research results.
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Assist with the preparation of NHPA Section 106, Section 110, NEPA, ARPA, and other cultural resource compliance documentation as assigned.
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Prepare archaeological collections for long-term curation in accordance with North Carolina Office of State Archaeology (NC OSA), North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office (NC SHPO), and federal standards.
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Clean, stabilize, label, catalog, count, weigh, and inventory archaeological artifacts using accepted curation procedures.
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Request accession numbers from NC SHPO and accurately label collections for permanent curation.
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Prepare archival-quality packaging, storage materials, inventories, and artifact logs for submission to approved curatorial facilities.
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Verify artifact inventories and ensure all documentation is complete, accurate, and compliant with curation standards.
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Prepare artifacts, soil samples, flotation samples, and other archaeological materials for submission to specialized analytical laboratories.
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Maintain laboratory records, databases, digital inventories, and project documentation.
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Coordinate with federal agency staff regarding laboratory priorities, collection management, and project deliverables.
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Ensure compliance with applicable federal regulations, agency policies, archaeological standards, and curation requirements.
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Perform quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) reviews of laboratory data, inventories, and report
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This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
Required Skills/Abilities
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Knowledge of archaeological laboratory methods and analytical techniques.
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Experience identifying and analyzing precontact and historic archaeological artifacts.
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Knowledge of lithic analysis, flotation analysis, macro botanical analysis, soil analysis, and other archaeological laboratory procedures.
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Familiarity with archaeological typologies and regional material culture.
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Knowledge of archaeological curation standards and collections management procedures.
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Experience preparing archaeological collections for permanent curation.
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Understanding of federal cultural resource regulations, including NHPA, NEPA, ARPA, and Section 106 compliance.
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Strong technical writing and documentation skills.
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Ability to synthesize archaeological laboratory results with field data and archival research.
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Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail.
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Ability to manage multiple laboratory assignments while maintaining accuracy and quality.
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Strong verbal and written communication skills.
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Ability to work independently and collaboratively within interdisciplinary project teams.
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Proficient in the following software applications: All Microsoft windows and Office Products (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Publisher), ArcGIS (ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online), Adobe Acrobat, Endnote or other reference management software
Education and Experience
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Required: Bachelor's degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or a closely related field
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Required: Successful completion of an accredited archaeological field school
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Required: Minimum of three (3) years of professional archaeological laboratory experience.
Physical Requirements
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Ability to perform detailed laboratory work requiring fine motor skills and visual accuracy.
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Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while processing archaeological materials.
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Ability to lift, carry, and organize artifact collections, sample containers, and archival materials weighing up to 30 pounds.
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Ability to safely handle fragile archaeological artifacts and laboratory equipment.
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Ability to occasionally travel to project sites, museums, repositories, or curation facilities.
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Ability to operate standard office and laboratory equipment for extended periods
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This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, etc.
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Valid driver's license with the ability to travel as required
Pre-employment Requirements
Due to the nature of Chloeta’s services, this position is contingent upon completing with a satisfactory outcome some or all of the following pre-employment background screenings: government security clearance, federal and state criminal background checks, drug test (urinalysis), Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) review, educational history, employment history, and/or credit check. In accordance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), pre-employment background screenings will require the employee’s written authorization and will occur after acceptance of an offer of employment and prior to commencing work. Additionally, employees are required to complete the federal I-9/E-Verify process.
Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy
Employees may be subject to undergoing additional drug screens and/or alcohol testing at any time during the period of employment, including without prior notice.
EEO Statement
Chloeta provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
About Chloeta
Chloeta is a Native American owned enterprise providing a diverse range of engineering, scientific, and technical solutions to support military, energy, homeland security, emergency preparedness, and critical infrastructure requirements.