Employment Opportunities

AvaIlable posItions

Assistant Archaeologist

The Department of Archaeology and Landscapes at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest seeks to hire the
position of Assistant Archaeologist. This is a full-time position with benefits. The successful candidate will
work alongside department staff to conduct ongoing archaeological excavations and laboratory analysis
at Thomas Jefferson’s retreat home and plantation.

The successful candidate must possess excellent skills in excavating historic sites (three years of field
experience is preferred) and have pertinent experience with material culture analysis. Previous
supervisory experience is welcome. The candidate should also possess strong communication,
organizational, writing, interpersonal and computer skills. The ability to work in a positive, energetic
and enthusiastic manner as part of a collaborative team environment is essential.

The position will work alongside the department’s professional staff to implement all phases of
archaeological research. This includes carrying out excavations, contributing to reports, creating and
managing field records and processing artifacts, as well as assisting with laboratory cataloguing,
research and analysis. Other responsibilities include assisting department staff in supervising seasonal
field crew, interns, students and volunteers; interpreting archaeology to the public; completing
projects; connecting with descendant communities; digitizing maps; conducting historical research;
participating in public programs and professional organizations; assisting with the development of
online content and exhibits; and carrying out related tasks as needed. Initial work this spring will include
working alongside Poplar Forest’s archaeology staff to conduct excavations needed to explore the edges
of the yard surrounding a Jefferson-era Quarter Site as plans are made for future reconstruction.

A bachelor’s degree in anthropology, archaeology, or a related discipline with an archaeology field
school and an emphasis on historical archaeology is required. Previous professional experience and/or
graduate training working in field and laboratory settings is necessary, including the excavation of
complex stratigraphy and the identification of 18th and 19th-century material culture. Individuals who
are active, hardworking and eager to learn with research interest in landscape archaeology, plantation
communities, public archaeology and historic material culture are encouraged to apply. Previous
experience working in the mid-Atlantic region is a plus.

The Corporation for Jefferson’s Poplar Forest offers a compensation package that includes competitive
pay, medical and dental coverage, life insurance, retirement plan, paid vacation, sick and holiday
leave. Salary will be commensurate with the applicant’s credentials, experience, and market forces.

How to apply:
Applications may be submitted via email to eric@poplarforest.org or mailed to:

Dr. Eric Proebsting, Director of Archaeology and Landscapes

Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest

P.O. Box 419

Forest, VA 24551

Applications should include a letter of interest, a resume or curriculum vitae and the names and
contact information of three references.

Contact Eric Proebsting (eric@poplarforest.org) with any questions related to this position. Initial
screening of applicants will begin March 16, 2026, with applications accepted until the position is filled.