Overview

Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) seeks a qualified individual to serve as NAGPRA Coordinator in the Department of Social Work and Anthropology. This 12-month, non-tenurable, position with full benefits is currently approved for one year, with possible renewal as warranted. AUM has been working on Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) initiatives since August 2023. Therefore, the NAGPRA Coordinator will ensure AUM’s continued compliance with the NAGPRA federal regulations through coordinating inventory and curation of Native American ancestral remains and cultural items, consultations, repatriations, and other associated activities.

For full considerations, please include:

• a letter of application highlighting relevant experience
• curriculum vitae
• unofficial graduate transcripts (official transcripts will be required for hiring)
• contact information for three professional references

How to Apply:

Visit https://jobs.aum.edu/aum-careers-home/ and complete an online application. Screening of applications will begin immediately with priority given to applications received by July 15, 2026. While the position will remain open until filled, AUM reserves the right once interviewing begins to stop accepting applications. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Dr. Kimberly Pyszka at kpyszka@aum.edu.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications:

• Master’s Degree in Anthropology, Museum Studies, Native American Studies, or closely related field.
• A minimum of two years’ experience in identifying, analyzing, organizing, and managing Native American ancestral remains and cultural items.
• Must be able to physically raise arms, lift 30 pounds (or more), and have the ability to climb stairs and ladders.

Preferred qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Anthropology, Museum Studies, Native American Studies, or closely related field.
• Prior experience participating in NAGPRA consultation processes.

Responsibilities

• Update and compile necessary summaries and inventories of Native American ancestral remains and cultural items located on the AUM campus.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with Native American Tribal Nations.
• Consult with federally recognized tribal representatives to determine the cultural affiliation of ancestral remains and cultural items.
• Consult on duty-of-care provisions to ensure ancestral remains and cultural items are handled in culturally sensitive ways and prepare them for repatriation and/or short and long-term curation.
• Serve as the institutional point of contact and coordinator for all NAGPRA inquiries.
• Collaborate and consult closely with department chair in matters of compliance and procedure to ensure that regulations are being followed.
• Collaborate and consult closely with other NAGPRA professionals on matters of compliance and procedure for shared collections.
• Prepare and file required documentation with the National NAGPRA Program.
• Explore grant opportunities to further support NAGPRA activities.
• Train and supervise students in best practices associated with collections and curation management.