Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) Coordinator (Anthropology)
Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) Coordinator (Anthropology)
Job Summary
The NAGPRA Coordinator coordinates compliance, consultations, repatriations, and other activities associated with ensuring Auburn University’s compliance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) federal regulation by coordinating inventory and curation of Native American artifacts and remains. Coordinates the disposition and repatriation of culturally identifiable and unidentifiable remains and objects, establishes and maintains relationships with tribal communities, and serves as an institutional point of contact for Native American ancestral remains and objects.
Essential Functions
Initiates, manages, and completes multiple inventories of Auburn University’s Native American artifacts, human remains, and related objects located on the main Auburn campus. This includes the NAGPRA collections (osteological and artifactual) and their preparation for curation in the NAGPRA campus lab for repatriation to their Native American tribe of origin.
Cultivates and maintains relationships with Native American and tribal communities. Works with federally recognized tribal representatives to determine whether or not human remains and/or funerary objects can be culturally affiliated with tribal groups and nations known to inhabit the region where these items were discovered and returned to the tribe of origin. Consults with Native American tribal representatives regarding treatment, identification, and cultural affiliation of ancestral remains and artifacts.
Serves as the institutional point of contact for all NAGPRA inquires seeking information about Native American remains and objects to include consultation, repatriation, disposition, and access to Native American’s human remains and objects in Auburn University’s possession. Interacts with the public, university, and professional community through teaching, lectures, presentations, and publications.
Collaborates and consults closely with faculty in the Anthropology Program in matters of compliance and procedure, as well as the department chair of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work to ensure that all regulations are being followed.
Oversees the disposition of human remains and objects in culturally sensitive ways and prepares them for repatriation and/or short and long-term curation.
Drafts notices for submission to the National Register and files required documentation with National NAGPRA.
Develops and submits grant proposals and funding requests to support NAGPRA activities.
Recruits, trains, and supervises graduate and undergraduate assistants and volunteers.
Administers NAGPRA-related budgets and purchases all necessary materials and supplies.
Advances Auburn University’s NAGPRA standing through attendance at conferences and workshops, service on advisory panels, and holding office or performing relevant committee assignments in professional organizations. Participates in promoting and coordinating outreach activities for research and education.
Minimum Education and Experience
Education Level
Masters degree from an accredited institution
Field of Study
Anthropology, Museum Studies, Native American Studies or related field.
Years of Experience
Minimum 2 years of experience
Area of Experience
Experience in identifying, analyzing, organizing, and managing Native American artifacts, human remains, and associated funerary objects. Thorough knowledge of NAGPRA law and procedures for compliance, consultation and project management, prior experience working with diverse groups of stakeholders (i.e. descendant communities, university faculty, staff, students, and government staff), prior experience working with fragmentary osteological collections.
Minimum Skills and Abilities
Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills required.
The successful candidate must meet eligibility requirements for work in the United States at the time employment begins and continue working legally for the term of employment.
Desired Qualifications
Thorough knowledge of NAGPRA law and procedures for compliance, consultation and project management, prior experience working with diverse groups of stakeholders (i.e. descendant communities, university faculty, staff, students, and government staff), prior experience working with fragmentary osteological collections.
Salary Range
$39,300 – $65,500
EEO Statement
Auburn University is committed to an inclusive and diverse campus environment. Women, underrepresented groups, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply.
AUBURN UNIVERSITY IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by applicable law.