Travel Required: Yes

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Under the direct supervision of the Director of the Archeology Division, the State Marine Archeologist is responsible for the protection, preservation, and investigation of historic shipwrecks within all state-owned waters of Texas. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: review all proposed developments within state waters for possible impacts to archeological resources under the Antiquities Code of Texas and Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act; conduct archeological research on submerged historic resources including remote-sensing surveys and diving investigations; produce professional reports on investigations conducted; maintain GIS-based inventory of historic shipwrecks within Texas; oversee maintenance of all equipment necessary for underwater archeology field investigations; make presentations to professional, avocational, and interested community groups regarding underwater archeology in Texas generally and on specific investigations; work closely with volunteers to conduct research projects; provide training to volunteers as necessary; may undertake laboratory conservation of archeological resources on a small scale. The State Marine Archeologist has no staff working directly under the position but occasionally draws staff from other programs within the agency to assist in field projects. Most of the field work is done using specially qualified volunteers. Travel is required. Complies with all agency policies and procedures.

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED:

• Supervise staff and volunteers

• Develop and Implement field research projects and carry through to report production

• Seek grant funding for research projects

• Review several hundred projects each year under Antiquities Code and Section 106

• Review all Antiquities Permit applications and reports for investigations of submerged historic resources

• Provide training to volunteers

• Make presentations as part of the THC’s public outreach efforts

• Nominate historic shipwrecks for State Archeological Landmark designation

• Provides editing and technical writing for the La Belle shipwreck report preparation

• Performs related work as assigned

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS

Graduate degree from an accredited college or university with a Masters Degree or higher in Anthropology (Archeology), History, or a closely related field. 5 years experience in underwater archeology including conduct and supervision of remote-sensing surveys and diving investigation of wrecks. A graduate degree specializing in nautical or marine archeology may be substituted for one year of experience. Must meet professional qualifications to hold an Antiquities Permit issued by the Texas Historical Commission.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Ability in all aspects of boat operations including towing and launching a 27 ft. boat

• Ability to operate Electronic survey equipment operations and interfacing, specifically side-scan sonar, marine magnetometer, fathometer, GPS, and navigation/data collection software

• Ability to collect survey data collection, data analysis, and archeological report preparation

• Familiarity with GIS software

• Ability and willingness to dive in black water conditions

• Skill in public speaking

• Knowledge of the Antiquities Code of Texas and supporting regulations

• Knowledge of the National Historic Preservation Act, the Abandoned Shipwreck Act, and other legislation providing for the protection of historic resources

• General knowledge of the maritime history of Texas

• Knowledge of and experience with laboratory conservation procedures for artifacts recovered from a marine environment is an advantage

REGISTRATION, CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE

• SCUBA certification is required; advanced SCUBA certification preferred.

• Must hold a valid Texas driver’s license

• Current first aid certification required

**Relocation expenses are not covered**