Archaeology Technician
Colorado State University
Job Description
Position Summary
The Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (CEMML) at Colorado State University (CSU) will be hiring up to two seasonal technicians (Temporary Hourly) to conduct fieldwork and possibly laboratory work at Fort McCoy Military Installation, Wisconsin, from approximately April 4th through July 10th, 2026. The position could be extended beyond the projected dates, pending the availability of hires and funding. Fort McCoy is a United States Army installation on 60,000 acres between Sparta and Tomah, Wisconsin and features rolling wooded hills, oak/jack pine savannas, and prairies.
This seasonal, full-time position (up to 40 hours per week) will include archaeological survey in the form of shovel testing to test for subsurface cultural deposits, site evaluation via the excavation of 1-x-2-meter test units, visits to previously identified archaeological sites to monitor their condition, and possibly monitoring of ongoing federal undertakings involving earth-moving. Candidates must be able walk over uneven terrain, sometimes over long distances, and work in inclement weather. This position involves performing repetitive movements and actions for full workdays, including but not limited to digging, sifting, bending, climbing, and lifting/carrying up to 30 pounds.
The possibility exists for shortened or even cancelled workdays due to inclement weather or military training restrictions. Staff will meet at the Tomah, Wisconsin field office before traveling to the work location on Fort McCoy. Housing is not provided. Rentals are available in the nearby Sparta, Tomah, Bangor, West Salem, and La Crosse areas. No per diem stipend is included. Learn more about CEMML’s contributions to land management, our mission, vision, values, and a complete listing of CEMML positions by visiting http://www.cemml.colostate.edu/.
Full Consideration Date
For full consideration, applications must be received by March 6, 2026. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as positions will be filled as qualified applications are received.
Essential Job Duties
Perform archaeological fieldwork including Phase I archaeological survey involving excavating shovel tests at regular intervals along pre-determined compass bearings, Phase II investigations involving excavation of formal test units to evaluate existing archaeological sites with respect to National Register of Historic Places eligibility criteria, routine monitoring of existing archaeological sites involving documenting the current site condition, conducting inadvertent discovery inspections, and monitoring ongoing federal undertakings including tree removal and development activities.
Complete appropriate field forms and take detailed field notes.
Assist in mapping field investigations by recording geospatial data with existing GPS equipment.
Identify and collect artifacts and feature samples for processing and analysis.
Conditions of Employment
Colorado State University conducts background checks on all final candidates. Language and details are available on the Human Resources background check webpage.
Supervision
This position does not require supervisory duties. Applicants will work independently or with a field crew leader to carry out assigned tasks.
Minimum Qualifications
Candidates must be able to document successful completion of an archaeological field school. Candidates must demonstrate U.S. employment eligibility; CEMML will not provide visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must possess a valid driver’s license. The ability to work well alone and within a crew setting is extremely important to this position.
Preferred Qualifications
The ability to interpret a variety of map formats (aerial, hillshade, and roadmap) is preferred. Experience with the Microsoft Office suite of programs (Word, Excel) is preferred. Familiarity with ArcGIS/ESRI applications (mobile, desktop) is preferred.
Application Instructions
Submit a resume, copy of college transcripts (if applicable), list of three references and a brief cover letter.
Questions? Email Tyler.Olsen@colostate.edu
Salary Range
$22.50 - $23.50 per hour depending on qualifications.Required Application Documents
To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.
Cover Letter, Resume/CV, TranscriptsEmployee Benefits
Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.
Background Check Policy Statement
Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.
EEO
Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all 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.