Archeological Specialist (Seasonal)
California State Personnel Board Specification
Schematic Code: BT80
Class Code: 1021
Established: 12/16/1965
Revised: --
Title Changed: --
Definition
Under direction, to gather, record, and interpret data from archeological sites excavated through the State archeological program; to supervise field and laboratory workers; and to do other related work.
Typical Tasks
Makes surveys for historic and prehistoric archeological sites and records sites on standard site record forms, makes sketch location map of site on the forms, and makes collection of specimens encountered during survey; plots site locations on standard topographic maps; makes recommendation for preservation or excavation of sites; assists in the excavation of archeological sites; makes contour map of site to be excavated; lays out excavation units on site; under strict controls removes culture deposit and records all observable data such as stratigraphy, house remains, burials, bone, stone and shell and other artifacts, flora and fauna remains, and all other significant natural and cultural evidence; maintains photographic record of excavation in progress; removes, cleans, repairs, catalogs, preserves and protects specimens recovered; maintains complete field notes of work being done; keeps daily journal of activities; prepares reports of work done; keeps attendance and cost records; makes estimates of work to be done; meets the public in the field, laboratory and office to disseminate information on work being done; prepares material for scientific, historic or popular publications; assists in exhibit programs as needed; and supervises archeological teams in the field and in the laboratory.
Minimum Qualifications
Education: Equivalent to graduation from college with major work in anthropology specializing in archeology. (Work performing duties similar to those listed under "TYPICAL TASKS" above may be substituted for up to two years of the required education on the basis of three months of experience being equal to one year of education.)
Knowledge and Abilities
Knowledge of: Archeological methods and California ethnology; museum methods, New World prehistory, geology, paleontology, zoology and osteology.
Ability to: Organize and conduct field expeditions plan exhibits; apply scientific knowledge, methods, and techniques in obtaining, arranging and interpreting data, and in collecting, identifying and cataloging archeological specimens and historic objects and artifacts; organize scientific material for presentation; address an audience effectively; prepare written material for reports and publication; analyze situations accurately and take effective action; plan, organize, and direct the work of others.
Special Personal Characteristics
Demonstrated interest in outdoor life and natural history and human history; tact; keenness of observation; ability to live in the field under primitive outdoor conditions; willingness to work at various locations throughout the State; willingness to work on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays and at odd or irregular hours.
