Archaeological Stewardship Coordinator

The Role

Maintains and documents archaeological collections at the Region of Waterloo Museums and Archives (Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum, Doon Heritage Village, Schneider Haus, McDougall Cottage, Region of Waterloo Archives). 

Implements strategies, policies, and procedures to manage and interpret archeological resources across Waterloo Region. Builds relationships with academic institutions, professional archeologists, and First Nations to support knowledge sharing and understanding.

Researches local archaeological discoveries and cultural belongings within the context of the Ontario Heritage Act, to support the development of exhibits and programs, with an emphasis on collaboration with Indigenous partners and telling more diverse stories. 

Provides access to archaeological collections to the community through in-person and online initiatives, while working closely with colleagues and external partners to ensure proper stewardship and engagement. 

Duties/Responsibilities

• Administers transfers of archaeological collections found within Waterloo Region from the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism and consulting archaeological firms.
• Ensures archaeological collections are documented and inventoried according to accepted standards and practices.
• Coordinates with the Collections Coordinator and Registrar on including archaeological collections within the collections management database, and on uploading data and images to the online collections database.
• Coordinates with the Archives Coordinator regarding access to and documentation of archaeological archival records.
• Coordinates with the Conservator to ensure proper storage of archaeological collections. 
• Coordinates access to Provincially regulated reports and resources identifying known archeological resources across Waterloo Region.
• Provides research and reference services relating to archaeological collections to staff and the public. Ensures service delivery in response to research and reference questions. Recommends projects that provide and improve access to archaeological collections. Provides tours of collections spaces as required. 
• Conducts project-related research and writes reports as required in relation to archaeological collections and archaeological projects within the Region.  
• As a content expert in southwestern Ontario archaeology, provides advice to and answers questions from internal and external colleagues on fieldwork, legislation, and best practices. 
• Establishes and maintains cooperative working relationships with staff in provincial departments, archaeological firms, and Indigenous organizations. 
• Assists management and the Collections Coordinator and Registrar to develop and maintain archaeological collections policies and procedures. 
• Monitors security of archaeological collections while providing tours and escorting contractors.
• Provides guidance and checks the work of contract staff, students, interns, and volunteers when they temporarily support the team.  
• Has a purchasing card for ordering supplies and incidentals related to research projects. 
• Performs related duties as assigned.  

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge and skills are acquired through a 4-year university degree plus a Master’s degree in Anthropology/Archaeology plus 4 years of experience (minimum 2 years of archaeology related experience, plus minimum 1 year of experience working in the museum and/or archives sector, plus minimum 1 year of experience working as a field archeologist).
• Knowledge and experience in database use and archaeological information management. 
• Experience in Ontario archaeological fieldwork and the processing of archaeological finds. 
• Experience and ability in archaeological object handling, and ability to identify objects and materials to contextualize their fabrication and state of maintenance. 
• Experience liaising with different internal and external parties, particularly Indigenous organizations. 
• Communication and interpersonal skills to deliver presentations, seminars, and workshops for professional audiences, the public, and interest groups; respond to questions from staff and the public; coordinate paperwork with internal and external stakeholders; and participate as an effective team member. 
• Ability to read and understand archaeological records, library resources, journals, and correspondence. 
• Knowledge of and ability to comply with corporate policies, procedures, and legislation (e.g. Ontario Heritage Act, MFIPPA, Standards & Guidelines for Consultant Archaeologists). 
• Ability to write/edit records, reports, and summaries, occasionally involving technical explanations and descriptions. Ability to write text that is interesting and easily understood by various audiences.  
• Computer skills with ability to use software such as Microsoft Office and a museum collections management database. 
• Must have a valid Applied Research or Professional Archaeology license with the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. 
• Must have a valid G Class driver’s license (or G2 with 3 years of driving experience) and satisfactory driving record to operate a corporate vehicle. 
• Ability to flex/alter daily schedule and is occasionally requested to work weekends. 
• Ability to travel within and outside Waterloo Region. 
• Ability to support and demonstrate the Region’s values.