NAGPRA Compliance Specialist

Position: NAGPRA Compliance Specialist

FLSA Status: Exempt

Department: Repatriation

Our Mission: Since the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, our organization has aimed to connect people to the natural environment and human history.

Join our team and enjoy a benefits package that truly supports your well-being and lifestyle:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, dental, vision plans, and even pet insurance.

• Financial Security: Life and disability benefits plus a 403(b) savings plan to help you plan for the future.

• Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure you have time to recharge and spend with loved ones.

• Exclusive Perks: Enjoy great employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.

We're dedicated to enhancing your life both at work and beyond!

The NAGPRA Compliance Specialist works under the Center for Repatriation, Tribal Relations, and Provenance Research to maintain compliance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) and the Field Museum's Repatriation Policy. This two-year term position reports to the NAGPRA Director. The NAGPRA Compliance Specialist is primarily responsible for working towards cultural affiliation and repatriation of ancestral human remains and associated funerary objects pursuant to NAGPRA § 10.10.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Consults with Native American Tribes and other Indigenous communities
• Works with and facilitates access to sensitive collections and information in accordance with museum policy and cultural protocols
• Conducts collections-based research, including examination of archives and investigation into provenience and provenance
• Maintains accurate records of all activities, including collections research, correspondence, consultations, and determinations regarding cultural affiliation and NAGPRA status
• Drafts, manages, and submits NAGPRA documents, including Inventories and Notices, within mandated deadlines
• Facilitates repatriation requests
• Exercises discretion and independent judgment in managing sensitive and confidential assignments and implementing culturally appropriate procedures

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or equivalent in Anthropology or a related field, and at least three years of experience in museums or working with Native communities
• Demonstrated understanding of Indigenous cultural concerns and the ability to work in collaboration with Indigenous peoples successfully on issues related to repatriation
• Exceptional organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy, and the ability to manage multiple priorities, tasks, and deadlines
• Strong analytical research and writing skills, with the ability to synthesize and clearly present complex information
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to develop and maintain respectful working relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives
• Ability to work independently as well as within a team environment
• Strong problem solving skills and the ability to maintain composure under high pressure
• Knowledge of collections management software, particularly EMu, highly preferred

Supervision Received:

Receives general supervision by NAGPRA Director.

Supervision Exercised:

The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

Work Hours and Shift:

35

Hybrid Eligibility:

Not eligible

Location:

1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL 60605

Union Representation:

This position is represented by Field Museum Workers’ United, AFSCME Council 31, AFL-CIO.

Pay Range: $62,000/Annually

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The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.

At the Field Museum, we are dedicated to making our career website and recruitment process accessible to everyone. If you encounter any difficulty when using or accessing our online application, or if you need a reasonable accommodation for completing your application, participating in interviews, or any other part of the selection process, please reach out to us at [email protected].