Cultural Observer

Cultural Observer

Department: Tribal Programs

Program: Cultural Preservation

Reports to: Cultural Resource Supervisor

Employment Status: Seasonal

FLSA Stauts: Non-Exempt

Schedule: 20 Plus Hours

Preference: TERO Ordinance 2017-01. P.L. 93-638

Job Summary

The Cultural Observer is responsible for archaeological monitoring, recording, and excavation work. The Cultural Observer will serve as a cultural ambassador of the Kenaitze Indian Tribe to minimize the potential for inadvertent impacts to archaeological sites and cultural resources. The Cultural Observer will watch over all ground disturbing activity including, but not limited to, grading, gorse abatement, tree clearing, trenching, and excavations on undisturbed and previously disturbed ground.

Essential Functions

• Responsible for recognizing cultural artifacts, human remains, village sites, midden deposits and other cultural resources
• Halt all excavation upon discovery of cultural artifacts, human remains and notify appropriate staff immediately before work resumes
• Monitor hand and mechanical treatments that involve ground disturbing activities
• Work with Kenaitze staff and contract staff to assess the likelihood of sites within the project area, and report potential sensitive areas
• Document findings on standard monitor forms and contribute to larger studies base on daily work forms and logs
• Take photographs, GPS points, video and ensure the data is tracked to Daily Activity logs
• Ensure Tribal human remains and any associated grave items are treated with culturally appropriate dignity
• Set up and maintain confidential and legal files and records; edit reports, check records and other data for accuracy, completeness and conformity with established standards
• Strict adherence to confidentiality, policies and procedures
• Ensures compliance with Tribal, federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, Tribal policies and TERO ordinance

It is the intent of this job description to highlight the essential functions of the position; however, it is not an all-inclusive list. The incumbent may be called upon and required to follow or perform other duties and tasks requested by his/her supervisor, consistent with the purpose of the position, department and/or the Kenaitze Indian Tribe's objectives.

Working Conditions

Lifting Requirements

• Medium work - Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Physical Requirements

• Stand or Sit (Stationary position)
• Walk (Move, Traverse)
• Use hands/fingers to handle or feel (Operate, Activate, Use, Prepare, Inspect, Place, Detect, Position)
• Climb (stairs/ladders) or balance (Ascend/Descend, Work atop, Traverse)
• Stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl (Position self (to), Move)
• Talk/hear (Communicate, Detect, Converse with, Discern, Convey, Express oneself, Exchange information)
• See (Detect, Determine, Perceive, Identify, Recognize, Judge, Observe, Inspect, Estimate, Assess)
• Pushing or Pulling
• Repetitive Motion

Hazards and Atmospheric Conditions

• Exposure to Fumes
• Exposure to Dust
• Exposure Extreme Temperatures
• Wet
• Noise
• Vibration
• Mists or Gases
• Mechanical Hazards
• Other

OSHA Categories

• Category II - Normal routine involves no exposure to blood, body fluid or tissue, but exposure or potential for exposure may occur

Equipment and Tools

List Equipment used for the job: works frequently, works near moving mechanical parts, and may occasionally work in a high, precarious place

Drive: Tribal or Leased Vehicle

Travel

• Local
• In-State

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or General Education Degree

Experience

• Two (2) years of experience in related field such as fish camp, Susten camp or other cultural programs, or equivalent combination of education and related experience
• Must be physically fit and able to work long hours in outdoor weather conditions year round and able to meet the physical demands of the project

Preferred

• Knowledge and experience working with cultural diversities

License/Certification

• Must have a valid Alaska State driver's license and must remain insurable under the Tribe's policy, or obtain within 90 days of hire

Special Skills

• Ability to lift 30-50 pounds
• Basic computer skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Must have the understanding of tribal cultural practices
• Availability to work outdoors exposed to weather conditions
• Knowledge and ability for safe work practices following guidelines and procedures for assisting in maintaining a safe and secure work environment
• Ability to recognize cultural artifacts, human remains, grave goods, evidence of village sites, etc.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions
• Ability to adhere to cultural confidential and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA)
• Conducts business in a service-oriented manner that is attentive, pleasant, respectful and kind when dealing with un'ina, visitors, co-workers and others
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively