The Illinois State Archaeological Survey (ISAS) is part of the Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which is centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. For 80 years, the University of Illinois has studied the state’s archaeological heritage. ISAS incorporates that knowledge in its programs to protect, preserve, and interpret these irreplaceable and non-renewable resources within the context of Illinois’ need to encourage and promote sustainable development.
ISAS is seeking to hire a Scientific Specialist, Archaeological Data Preservation to design, develop, and manage archaeological research data and informational management strategy, dissemination, applications, workflow procedures, and data preservation. Position is based in Champaign, Illinois.
Duties & Responsibilities:
Design and develop database solutions using the FileMaker platform to import, store, retrieve, analyze, and format data to meet project needs.
Design and develop custom, user-friendly interfaces in the FileMaker database platform to provide staff ways to enter, access, and analyze data.
Develop analytical solutions to scientific research problems in coordination with staff to complete project objectives in a minimum amount of time while maintaining high performance and data integrity.
Prepare and compile comprehensive documentation for FileMaker database applications, including descriptions of their use in workflows.
Develop scientific data management strategies in concert with other members of the GIS and Data Stewardship section, which includes establishing standard practices such as defining data formats, naming conventions, and data storage procedures.
Implement and maintain user and permission groups for databases and file storage solutions to ensure data access, security, and integrity.
Facilitate distribution of data and documentation and provide technical expertise to Survey and PRI staff, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, academia, and stakeholders.
Advise and consult with management, researchers, and staff on information and data management.
Contribute to the education, outreach, and/or service goals of PRI, the University of Illinois, and the state of Illinois.
Enhance the reputation of the ISAS and PRI at the state, national, and international level.
Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.
Attend, participate in, and contribute to meetings, conferences, and workshops.
Perform other duties as needed to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and University.
Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in anthropology, archaeology, computer sciences, information sciences, or related discipline. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position. Industry or academic research experience. Demonstrated experience in developing and/or modifying new and existing relational database applications, including requirement analysis, design, testing, debugging, implementation, user and permissions management, and maintenance. Experience with scientific data management, stewardship, and long-term storage. Valid driver's license. Preferred Qualifications: Master’s degree in anthropology, archaeology, computer sciences, information sciences, or related discipline. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position. Experience and proficiency developing relational database applications in FileMaker. Experience working with scientific data and collections. Familiarity with archaeological data, historic preservation and regulations, and the archaeology of the Midwestern US. Registered Professional Archaeologist.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Required: Ability to provide detailed written documentation including documentation, metadata, software instructions, standards, and specifications in a clear, concise, and well-structured manner. Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills. Must possess strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with other scientists, researchers, staff, and clients. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases. Preferred: Familiarity with FileMaker database platform, state of Illinois historic preservation and human remains laws, and regulations.
Work Environment: Work is conducted in office and remote field station settings. Some work may involve travel to ISAS field stations, heat, humidity, and lifting items weighing up to 30 pounds.
Appointment Information: This is a full-time academic professional appointment renewable annually based on satisfactory progress in the position and continued funding. The starting date is negotiable and the salary is commensurate with experience.
Application Procedure and Deadline Information: Applications must be received by 6:00 p.m. Central on October 20, 2023. Applicants may be interviewed before the closing date; however, no hiring decision will be made until after this date. To apply, please use the Apply Now button. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. Application materials must include a 1) a cover letter that clearly articulates how your qualifications and experience make you a viable candidate for this position and should address the qualifications listed above, 2) a CV or resume, and 3) the names and contact information including e-mail addresses of three academic or professional (not personal) references. All requested information and documentation must be submitted for applications to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
For further information please contact Lori Walston-Vonderharr, Human Resources, Prairie Research Institute, at lwalston@illinois.edu or 217-244-2401. For questions regarding the application process, including technical system related issues, please contact 217-333-2137.
