About Musqueam
We are traditional hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ speaking people. Today, we are a strong, growing community of over 1,300 members. We live on a small portion of our traditional territory, known as the Musqueam Indian Reserve, located south of Marine Drive near the mouth of the Fraser River. The name Musqueam relates back to the River Plant, the name of the plant is məθkʷəy̓. There is a story that has been passed on from generation to generation that explains how we became known as the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) - People of the River Plant. We have always moved throughout our territory using the resources it provides for fishing, hunting, trapping and gathering. We remain distinct and our cultural practices are strong, despite the devastating impacts of residential schools, colonial laws banning our ceremonies, and other attempts to assimilate our people. Our lands and waters continue to support our cultural and economic practices while serving as a source of knowledge and memory, encoded with our teachings and laws. To learn more about Musqueam, please visit www.musqueam.bc.ca
Position Summary
Reporting to the Manager of Archaeology, the Senior Archaeologist is responsible for overseeing archaeological field crews and representing the Musqueam Indian Band on archaeological projects. The role is responsible for coordinating field activities, ensuring proper archaeological documentation and photography standards, supporting regulatory processes, and upholding Musqueam archaeological and heritage policies.
The Senior Archaeologist works closely with internal staff, consultants, contractors, and project partners to ensure archaeological work is conducted in alignment with professional standards, Musqueam cultural values, and applicable legislation. The successful applicant may be privy to confidential and sensitive information and will not divulge said confidential information to other parties or use said information for personal profit.
The position requires strong leadership skills, technical field knowledge, and the ability to work in physically demanding outdoor environments and varying weather conditions.
Roles & Responsibilities
- Supervise and coordinate archaeological field crews and daily field operations.
- Oversee archaeological fieldwork with outside consulting firms and project partners as required.
- Ensure proper archaeological documentation, field recording, and photography standards are maintained.
- Assist with archaeological reporting, mapping, cataloguing, and data management activities.
- Monitor field activities to ensure compliance with Musqueam heritage and archaeological policies and procedures.
- Support regulatory and permitting processes related to archaeological projects.
- Provide guidance and mentorship to junior archaeological staff and field technicians.
- Conduct field inspections, site visits, and data collection activities including notes, photographs, GPS waypoints, and sample tracking.
- Process and catalogue artifacts, belongings, and samples as required.
- Liaise professionally with contractors, consultants, government agencies, and community representatives.
- Maintain accurate project records and documentation.
- Promote safe work practices and ensure adherence to safety procedures in the field.
- Other related duties as required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Experience supervising archaeological crews and field operations preferred.
- Knowledge of Musqueam history, culture, and heritage is considered an asset.
- Knowledge of archaeological field methods, documentation standards, and photography techniques.
- Knowledge of the archaeological regulatory process and permitting requirements.
- First Aid certification or other safety certifications considered an asset.
- GIS, mapping, and digital photography experience considered an asset.
- Dedicated to working towards Heritage Conservation Act designations and ongoing professional development.
- Successful Criminal Record Check required.
Working Conditions
- Work is performed primarily in the field with some office and lab work.
Why work for Musqueam?
Our success as a leader as a First Nations Government is built on the traditional teachings of our people, initiative and dedication of the Musqueam Indian Band. Providing a highly engaged traditional government that is member focused.
- Competitive salary
- Training and career development
- Business casual environment
- Community fitness and gym access
- Comprehensive group benefits plan and pension plan
- Centrally located with free parking; free onsite gym and class access; close to nature trails at UBC and along the Fraser River, shops, restaurants and services.
