Before the Process Begins:
Talk to colleagues at your current employer or institution, especially those who have recently been involved with searches (either as candidates or on committees), to inform yourself about the search process and how it works. If you are looking outside academia, try to get advice from someone who is familiar with the norms and procedures in that field (museums, contract archaeology, foundations, etc.) and what employers in the field are looking for. This guide focuses on job searches in academia, but keep in mind that most archaeology jobs are not in higher education. Think seriously about your goals but be realistic about career prospects in archaeology: your first job will very likely not be your last.
While there is a certain rhythm to the academic market, you should be prepared to start looking in the summer before you hope to be employed, and you may not get an offer until the following summer. Tenure-track academic jobs are often posted in the summer and early fall. Shorter-term Visiting Assistant Professor and lecturer positions are generally posted slightly later, in the winter, spring, and summer.
Before Applying:
When Applying:
Preliminary Interviews:
On-Campus Interviews:
You will be one of three to five finalists. The window in which your visit can take place will likely be very small and may come very soon after the preliminary interview. Be as flexible and accommodating as possible.
If You Receive an Offer:
NB: This is a basic checklist; take advantage of internet resources to develop a sense of expectations and common experiences.
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