What are the responsibilities and job description for the Archaeologist (Historic Preservation Specialist) position at Commonwealth of PA?
THE POSITION
NOTE: This posting will close on JUNE 10, 2026 or after 50 applications are received, whichever occurs first.
The Historic Preservation Specialist with the Department of Transportation helps ensure that important archaeological resources are considered during transportation project planning. This role supports careful decision making that protects cultural heritage across local communities. You will work closely with project teams to guide responsible development practices. If you are eager to make a substantial difference in your community and help safeguard Pennsylvania's rich history, do not miss out on this exciting opportunity—apply today and be part of a meaningful mission!
DESCRIPTION OF WORK
This position supports archaeological review, cultural resource coordination, and project evaluation within Districts 1-0 and 2-0. You will ensure that transportation projects consider cultural resources in a timely and responsible way. As a Historic Preservation Specialist, you will perform the following duties:
- Archaeological Review: Prepare assessments, effects findings, and documentation for project undertakings
- Cultural Coordination: Consult with Native American Tribes, agencies, and consulting parties on archaeological matters
- Document Evaluation: Review environmental documents and technical reports for accuracy and policy compliance
- Project Monitoring: Monitor archaeological investigations and make recommendations on boundaries, impacts, and preservation needs
- Contract Oversight: Review consultant proposals and assist in managing contracts for archaeological studies
- Stakeholder Communication: Maintain regular communication with agencies, communities, and cultural resource partners
Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.
Work Schedule and Additional Information:
- Full-time employment
- Work hours are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
- Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Clearfield. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.
- Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
- You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:
- Meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards for History, Archeology, Architectural History, Architecture, or Historic Architecture.
Additional Requirements:
- You must have a master's degree (or higher) in archaeology, anthropology, or closed related field.
- One or more years of full-time professional experience or equivalent specialized training in archaeological research, administration, or management
- Must have at least four months of supervised field and analytical experience in general North American archaeology
- Completion of an individual research project
- You must be able to perform essential job functions.
Preferred Qualifications (not required):
- Master's degree (or higher) in Pennsylvania or Mid-Atlantic Archaeology
- Field work that includes conducting archaeological surveys, National Register eligibility archaeological site evaluations, and/or conducting data recovery mitigation efforts on National Register eligible archaeological sites
- Professional-level experience using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) related to archaeological work
How to Apply:
- Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
- If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
- Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
- Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
- All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant’s own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information.
Veterans:
- Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.
Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):
- 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).
If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.
The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.
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