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Job Title: Associate Research Scientist, Archaeology - Illinois State Archaeological Survey
Company Name: University of Illinois
Location: Urbana, IL
Position Type: Full Time
Post Date: 02/27/2026
Expire Date: 03/29/2026
Job Categories: Education, Science, Collegiate Faculty, Staff, Administration, Research & Development
Job Description
Associate Research Scientist, Archaeology - Illinois State Archaeological Survey
<p><span style="font-family: Arial"></span></p><h2 style="text-align: center">Principal ResearchScientist/Associate Research Scientist<br><font size="3">Illinois State ArchaeologicalSurvey<br>Prairie ResearchInstitute<br>University ofIllinois Urbana-Champaign</font></h2><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial">TheIllinois State Archaeological Survey (ISAS) is part of the Prairie ResearchInstitute at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, which is centrallylocated between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. For 80 years, theUniversity of Illinois has studied the state’s archaeological heritage. ISASincorporates that knowledge in its programs to protect, preserve, and interpretthese irreplaceable and non-renewable resources within the context of Illinois’need to encourage and promote sustainable development. Learn more atgo.illinois.edu/PRIjobs. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">Detailsfor the PRINCIPAL RESEARCH SCIENTIST</span></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial">ISAS is seeking to hire a PrincipalResearch Scientist, Archaeology to develop, lead, and manage all levels ofarchaeological analysis, research, and review of compliance reports and otherpublications for the Survey and Office of the State Archaeologist.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Duties andResponsibilities</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Research – DataAnalysis/Interpretation</strong></span></p><ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Perform and oversee the analysis of recovered archaeological data and provide interpretations of findings.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Author and edit compliance reports, technical chapters, and other volumes in accordance with state and federal laws for the Survey, the state of Illinois, and funding agencies.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Perform quality assurance/quality control through reviewing data and reports.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Develop research projects and external publications in collaboration with Survey staff and other researchers. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Serve as Principal Investigator and/or co-Principal Investigator including management of grant funding, reports, and deliverables.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Communicate results of investigations as presentations and lectures to a wide variety of audiences.</span></li></ul><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Strategic Leadership and Engagement </strong></span></p><ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Collaborate with and advise the Survey Director in strategic program planning, budget and program expenditures, and resource, space, and equipment allocation.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Identify and support alignment of operational practices across Survey sections, remote field stations, and remote staff. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Develop relationships with units on the UIUC campus and external units.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Participate in a leadership role in professional organizations, committees, and journals concerning issues related to expertise.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Respond to requests for information and provide technical expertise to PRI staff, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, Descendant communities, academia, industry, and the general public.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Serve as point of contact for sponsor, respond to sponsor inquiries and needs, and coordinate staff activities with sponsor.</span></li></ul><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Management - Supervisory </strong></span></p><ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Supervise and lead staff to achieve success and foster a culture of innovation and high-level performance at both individual and organizational levels including tasking assignments, ongoing performance management with coaching and feedback, career development planning, and annual performance reviews.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Develop and implement standardized workflows and templates for administrative tasks across sections.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Review and revise program technical standards and provide input regarding program personnel standards.</span></li></ul><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Other</strong></span></p><ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.</span></li></ul><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Minimum Qualifications</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><em>Required:</em>&nbsp;PhD degree in anthropology,archaeology, or related discipline. Alternate degree fields will beconsidered/accepted depending on the nature and depth of the experience as itrelates to this position. A minimum of 10 years’ professional experience inarchaeological field and laboratory investigations in the Midcontinent and/orEastern Woodlands cultural areas. Demonstrated expertise in an area ofarchaeological research and analysis (e.g., lithic/ceramic analysis,geophysical survey and interpretation). Supervisory and team leadershipexperience. Experience managing sponsored research projects and staff,including timely submission of deliverables. Experience conducting complianceresearch according to Section 106 and other with federal historic preservationlegislation.&nbsp; Valid driver's license.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><em>Preferred:&nbsp;</em>Archaeological experience in Illinois. Expertise in precontactceramic or lithic analysis and data management. Experience conductingcompliance research according to state of Illinois historic preservationlegislation.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Appointment Information</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial">Thisis a full-time academic professional appointment.&nbsp; The budgeted starting salary for thisposition is $100,000. The salary is competitive and commensurate withqualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">Detailsfor the ASSOCIATE RESEARCH SCIENTIST</span></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial">ISAS is seeking to hire an AssociateResearch Scientist, Archaeology to develop and manage all levels of archaeological analysis,research, and review of compliance reports and other publications for theSurvey and Office of the State Archaeologist.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Duties andResponsibilities</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Research – DataAnalysis/Interpretation</strong></span></p><ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Perform and coordinate the analysis of recovered archaeological data and provide interpretations of findings.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Author and edit compliance reports, technical chapters, and other volumes in accordance with state and federal laws for the Survey, the state of Illinois, and funding agencies.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Perform quality assurance/quality control through reviewing data and reports.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Develop research projects and external publications in collaboration with Survey staff and other researchers. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Communicate results of investigations as presentations and lectures to a wide variety of audiences.</span></li></ul><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Management - Supervisory </strong></span></p><ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Supervise and lead staff to achieve success and foster a culture of innovation and high-level performance at<br>bothindividual and organizational levels including tasking assignments, ongoingperformance management with coaching and feedback, career development planning,and annual performance reviews.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Develop and implement standardized workflows and templates for administrative tasks across sections.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Review and revise program technical standards and provide input regarding program personnel standards.</span></li></ul><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>StrategicLeadership and Engagement</strong></span></p><ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Identify and support alignment of operational practices across Survey sections, remote field stations, and remote staff. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Develop relationships with units on the UIUC campus and external units.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Respond to requests for information and provide technical expertise to PRI staff, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, Descendant communities, academia, industry, and the general public.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Serve as point of contact for sponsor, respond to sponsor inquiries and needs, and coordinate staff activities with sponsor.</span></li></ul><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Other</strong></span></p><ul><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial">Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.</span></li></ul><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Minimum Qualifications</strong></span></p><p><em>Required:&nbsp;</em>Master’s degree inanthropology, archaeology, or related discipline. Alternate degree fields willbe considered/accepted depending on the nature and depth of the experience asit relates to this position. A minimum of 8 years’ professional experience in archaeologicalfield and laboratory investigations in North America. Demonstrated expertise inan area of archaeological research and analysis. Supervisory and teamleadership experience. Experience managing sponsored research projects andstaff, including timely submission of deliverables. Experience conductingarchaeological research in compliance with Section 106 and other federalhistoric preservation legislation.&nbsp; Validdriver's license.</p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><em>Preferred:&nbsp;</em>Archaeological experiencein Illinois. Expertise in precontact ceramic or lithic analysis and datamanagement. Experience conducting compliance research according to State ofIllinois historic preservation legislation.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>AppointmentInformation</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial">Thisis a full-time academic professional appointment.&nbsp; The budgeted starting salary for thisposition is $85,000. The salary is competitive and commensurate withqualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">Information For BOTH POSITIONS</span></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Knowledge, Skills,and Abilities</strong></span></p><p><em>Requited:&nbsp;</em>In-depth knowledge ofarchaeological culture history and research agendas in the North America.Ability to effectively manage research as a principal investigator andsupervise and mentor associated personnel. Strong interpersonal skills andability to make sound value judgments, translate research findings intomanagement recommendations as appropriate, and express concepts and findingcoherently, both verbally and in writing to granting agencies and to thescientific and lay communities. Effective communication, personal relations,collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills.&nbsp; Demonstrated ability to perform effectivelyin a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple andchanging priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision.Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills.Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases as well as projectmanagement software.</p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><em>Preferred</em>:&nbsp;In-depth knowledge of archaeological culture history,research agendas, and historic preservation legislation in Illinois.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Working Conditions</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial">Work is conducted in bothoffice and field settings. Fieldwork will require working in adverse conditions(inclement weather, biting insects, remoteness) and occasional travel(including driving to and from research sites) throughout the state of Illinoisin both rural and urban settings. Will require overnight travel for up to onework week at a time. Will require operating, lifting, and manipulating fieldequipment and other items over uneven terrain weighing up to 50 pounds.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial">&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial">Pleasenote that interviews and hires may take place before the close of the jobad.&nbsp; </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Benefits:&nbsp;</strong>The University of Illinois offers a widevariety of benefits&nbsp;https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/benefits,including paid leave&nbsp;https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/leave and holidays&nbsp;https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/leave/holidays&nbsp;<strong><br></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"><strong>Application Procedures&amp; Deadline Information</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial">Applications must be received by 6:00 p.m.(CST) Monday, March 2, 2026.&nbsp; Toapply: Select the Apply Now button at the top or bottomof the page.&nbsp; Applications not submittedthrough this website will not be considered. Application materials must includea 1) cover letter that clearly outlines your qualifications and experience asit relates to this position , 2) a CV or resume, and 3) names and contactinformation (including email addresses) for three professional (not personal)references. Incomplete applications will not be considered. &nbsp;<strong><em>Please indicate in your cover letter for whichlevel you are applying.</em></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial">For further information about this specific position, pleasecontact Jill Billerman at jrandell@illinois.edu.&nbsp; For questions regarding the applicationprocess, including technical issues, please contact 217-333-2137.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial"></span></p><p></p><p>At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — <strong>every staff member helps shape what’s next</strong>. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.</p><p><a href="https://makeitcu.com/" title="https://makeitcu.com/">Champaign-Urbana</a></p><p><em>Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.</em></p><p id="benefitStatement">This position is intended to be <a href="https://go.illinois.edu/workatillinois">eligible for benefits</a>. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.</p><hr><p align="center">The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit <a href="https://go.uillinois.edu/noticesandposters" target="_blank">Required Employment Notices and Posters</a> to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through <a href="https://www.e-verify.gov/sites/default/files/everify/posters/EVerifyParticipationPoster.pdf" target="_blank">E-Verify</a>.</p><p align="center">Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the <a href="http://go.illinois.edu/accommodationportal" title="http://go.illinois.edu/accommodationportal">reasonable accommodation portal</a>, or by contacting the Office for Access &amp; Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or <a title="mailto:accessibility@illinois.edu">accessibility@illinois.edu</a>.</p><hr><p><strong>Requisition ID</strong>: 1034722<br><strong>Job Category</strong>: Research<br><strong>Apply at:</strong> <a href="https://jobs.illinois.edu">https://jobs.illinois.edu</a></p><a name="HEJobs" type="hidden" value="No"></a><a name="Billing_Name" type="hidden" value=""></a><a name="Billing_Email" type="hidden" value=""></a><p></p>
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Company Name: University of Illinois
Website:https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/16130?c=illinois
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