Overview
The San Diego Archaeological Center is looking for a highly motivated individual to assist in the daily management of the Cultural Resources Department including overseeing the archaeological laboratory, artifact processing, GIS services, and volunteer/intern coordination.
Position: Collections Technician
Full-time non-exempt; 35 hours/week on-site Monday – Friday, some Saturdays and nights required Pay Rate: $22/hour.
Benefits: 2 weeks PTO, medical and dental coverage
Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, Museum Studies, related discipline, or equivalent experience
• Experience in archaeological lab or museum collections environment including artifact handling, cataloging, current best practices, and ethical and culturally appropriate stewardship
• Proficient with ArcGIS and/or QGIS software
• Experience with Tribal engagement and collaboration
• Management experience and ability to supervise multiple student interns and volunteers
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Excel, Access, Word) and database systems
• Comfortable with physical tasks (lifting boxes, moving artifacts, maintaining workspaces)
• Positive attitude and eagerness to contribute across all departments in a small team environment
• Ability to take initiative and work effectively under appropriate supervision
• Excellent critical thinking, problem solving, time management, and organizational skills
• Effective communicator with strong verbal and writing skills
Other desired experience and skills:
• Archaeological field and/or lab experience in Southern California
• Experience working with archival materials
• Working knowledge of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA)
• Understanding of the process and applications of photogrammetry
• Spanish fluency
Responsibilities:
Archaeological Laboratory and Geospatial Information Systems (GIS)
• Oversee artifact processing, including cleaning, sorting, labeling/marking, rehousing, and cataloging
• Assist in the preparation of cultural resources for research, exhibitions, and educational use
• Maintain the GIS database and create maps as needed
Collections Housekeeping & Maintenance
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized lab, collections, and exhibit storage areas
• Monitor for pests, biological activity, and environmental concerns
• Support routine housekeeping of gallery and storage spaces, including object care and cleaning schedules
• Assist with exhibit installation, rotations, and deinstallation
Volunteer & Intern Coordination
• Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers and interns working in the lab
• Schedule projects and daily activities, ensuring adherence to protocols
• Provide mentorship and training in artifact handling and processing
Collaboration & Support
• Assist Cultural Resources Director with:
o Daily operational needs and coordination of the Cultural Resources Department
o NAGPRA compliance, including supporting consultations, site visits, and repatriation efforts
o Development and management the Center’s archive program
• Collaborate with other departments as requested for Center-wide and individual department projects
• Assist with general upkeep of the facility and grounds as part of normal operations
• Other duties as assigned
Other Information
• Live Scan and valid driver’s license required
• Send cover letter and resume to collections@sandiegoarchaeology.org or apply online at https://www.indeed.com/job/collections-technician-0bc84b7d587e895d