jobs Logo
State of Minnesota logo

Research Archaeologist - State Program Administrator Senior

State of Minnesotaabout 10 hours ago
Hybrid
$59,006 - $86,505/annual
Mid Level
Full-Time

Top Benefits

Health Insurance
Paid Vacation
Sick Leave

About the role

Working Title: Research Archaeologist

Job Class: State Program Administrator Senior

Agency: Administration Dept

Job ID: 94816 Location: St. Paul Telework Eligible: Yes Full/Part Time: Full-Time Regular/Temporary: Unlimited Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers Date Posted: 06/12/2026 Closing Date: 07/02/2026 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Administration Dept / Administration-MAPE Division/Unit: State Archaeologist Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift Days of Work: Monday - Friday Travel Required: Yes - up to 20% Salary Range: $28.26 - $41.43 / hourly; $59,006 - $86,505 / annually Classified Status: Classified Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE FLSA Status: Non-exempt Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes

The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

The Office of the State Archaeologist (OSA) is the chief public contact for archaeology in Minnesota. The OSA provides archaeological services and oversight to State and local governments, professional archaeologists, and the public with archaeological site protection, archaeological education, and archaeology research as defined by Minnesota's laws and statutes. The OSA promotes efficient management of archaeological resources in Minnesota and a better understanding of the State's past.

Responsibilities

We are seeking a Research Archaeologist to help the OSA fulfill its statutory responsibilities. In this position, you will provide field, lab, and archival research; documentation and database development and maintenance; supervision of archaeologists licensed under provisions of statutes; and public education components. This work requires building and maintaining collaborative and effective relationships with tribes, governmental agencies, businesses, and individuals. In fulfilling duties as specified under Minnesota Statutes 138.31-138.42 and 307.08, responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Administering the Minnesota Archaeological Site Inventory and the OSA Web Portal by managing data related to archaeological and cemetery/burial site information in Minnesota, including providing training and troubleshooting to OSA Portal users. Managing the licensing process for archaeological licenses issued under the Minnesota Field Archaeology Act by managing the intake, routing, and notification process of archaeological licenses; managing the license review process coordination; and maintaining OSA license database, documentation, and expirations. Assisting with archaeological and burial site investigations and management by conducting field investigations, as necessary, and documenting field investigations and analyzing archaeological site information. This may include supervising and/or monitoring fieldwork conducted by others. Performing outreach and advocacy working with collaborating organizations to raise awareness of and appreciation for Minnesota's archaeological resources; hosting researchers and visitors to OSA; and developing papers and presentations for professional organizations and educational programs for public groups, agencies, and others pertaining to Minnesota's archaeological heritage and the OSA. Other office administrative duties, including administering accounts receivable and payable.

This position is eligible for up to a 50% hybrid telework arrangement. With a telework arrangement, additional onsite attendance may be required for team meetings or as requested by management to meet business needs. Completion of a telework agreement will be required. Please review the Telework Policy for details.

Additionally, this position is required to travel between 5% - 10%, including overnight stays, to meet position responsibilities and business needs. Traveling up to 20% may be required during the peak field season (April through November) with stakeholders, partners, and customers at their preferred location(s) and/or archaeological sites. Actual overnight travel is adjustable based on service needs.

Minimum Qualifications

The following qualifications are required of all applicants seeking consideration for this position. Only applicants whose application materials clearly demonstrate fulfillment of each of these minimum qualifications will be considered for the position.

A Bachelor's degree in anthropology, archaeology, historic preservation, or related field (with an emphasis in archaeology) as required by the Secretary of the Interior's qualifications standards.

Along With Formal Education, The Following Are Also Required

At least one (1) year of full-time professional experience in cultural resource management work in conformance with the Secretary of the Interior's Guidelines for Archaeology and Historic Preservation, including relevant experience in areas of background and archival research, fieldwork, analysis, and report preparation. Two (2) years of experience in Minnesota archaeology. Knowledge of the Field Archaeology Act (MS 138.31-42); Private Cemeteries Act (MS 307.08); and other relevant local, state, and federal legislations, laws, and standards. Experience identifying and assessing human remains, burials, mortuary features, funerary materials, prehistoric and historic sites, artifacts, and/or features. Expertise in working with computers, software, databases, applications; and a high degree of analytical skills. Strong interpersonal and human relations skills to maintain healthy, productive relationships with people of diverse cultures and various organizations, including state agencies, the Minnesota Historic Society, the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council, Minnesota universities and colleges, local and tribal governments, the general public, and private firms.

Preferred Qualifications

Meet the Department of Interior's Professional Qualification Standards (36CRF61) for archaeology. Experience working with Minnesota's Tribal Historic Preservation Offices and tribal communities. Expertise in archaeological literature, research, and resources of the Upper Midwest. Familiarity with available archaeological research materials and resources in Minnesota. Strong time management and organizational skills to complete projects on time. Ability to monitor and lead other program staff, partners, contractors, vendors, etc., to meet established timelines, quality standards, and program objectives.

Physical Requirements

This position may sit or stand for extended periods of time to perform repetitive movements, such as word and data processing; bend, stand, stoop, kneel, or crouch; lift and/or move objects/materials up to 30 pounds with or without assistance; and physically inspect project sites while traversing rough/dug up and potentially uneven terrain and ascend/descend ladders and temporary stairs.

Additional Requirements

Successful applicants must pass a criminal background check through American DataBank and employment reference checks prior to employment. A criminal history does not automatically disqualify an applicant, and each case will be reviewed individually in alignment with fair hiring practices.

Applicants must possess a valid driver's license with acceptable motor vehicle record or have reliable transportation.

How To Apply

Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Ly Her at ly.her@state.mn.us or 651-201-2434.

To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title, and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Ly Her at ly.her@state.mn.us.

About The Department Of Administration

The Department of Administration is a core service agency serving the Governor, Legislature, state agencies, local governments, and the public. Our mission is to provide leadership, innovation, solutions, and support to help our partners succeed. To learn more about us, please visit mn.gov/admin.

Working together to improve the state we love.

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?

A sense of purpose in their work Connection with their coworkers and communities Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your Benefits May Include

Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays each year Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans Fertility care, including IVF Diabetes care Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years) Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being Support To Help You Reach Your Career Goals

Training, classes, and professional development Tuition reimbursement Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) For Work/life Support

A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources, and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants With Disabilities

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.

About State of Minnesota

Government Administration