Veterans Curation Program Flagship Labs
(Alexandria, VA; Augusta, GA; St. Louis, MO; and San Mateo, CA)
Our Program:
Can I participate in the program more than once?
Due to our training structure, you cannot repeat the program. The skills we teach are intended to be transferable to other jobs and we would love to be able to give as many veterans as possible the opportunity to learn these skills.
If I apply, will I get into the program?
Our application process is competitive and we are unable to accept everyone who applies to the program. The number of positions we have in each term is determined by the funding provided by Congress and the Corps of Engineers, and varies from term to term. If you are not selected, we encourage you to reapply for the next session, but please understand that not everyone is an ideal candidate for the work that we do in the program!
How do you select candidates?
The application process is open to all veterans. However, per Public Law 114–189, which was signed into law by President Obama on July 6th, 2016, the VCP was created “to employ and train Iraq and Afghanistan veterans in archaeological processing.” Preference will be given to veterans that separated post-9/11, but veterans from previous eras will be considered if open positions remain. Priority will be given to lower enlisted veterans as they generally benefit most from the training provided.
How do I apply for the program and when will I hear back?
You can download an application and email a completed form along with a Member 4 copy of your DD214 (or equivalent NGB or Reserves form) to vcpjobs@newsouthassoc.com. Interviews are generally conducted in early October/April. Managers try to notify accepted applicants a minimum of two weeks before the session starts, however this can vary based on security procedures at certain facilities.
Logistics:
Is there parking at each facility? How do I get there?
Parking is different at each facility. The Alexandria VCP has limited street parking and paid garages in the vicinity. The Augusta VCP has a free parking lot directly outside of the building. The San Mateo VCP has a number of free parking spaces directly outside of the building. The St. Louis VCP has paid parking within a few blocks of the facility. All of our facilities can be accessed by public transportation.
I am busy during the day; can I work overtime or weekend hours?
Our facilities are only open during normal business hours. We expect all technicians to complete their hours during the lab’s open hours. Hours vary per lab but each facility is open nine hours each weekday.
Are relocation expenses covered? Do you help with finding housing/is housing provided?
No, relocation expenses are not covered. We do not assist with finding housing and we do not provide housing, though we can point you in the direction of helpful organizations in each area that may be able to assist you. It can be difficult to find short-term, affordable housing for the five- month term.
Do you provide transportation?
No, we do not provide transportation or assist with transportation costs. You are responsible for getting to your facility each day. We can direct you towards certain organizations that can help with transportation costs.
Will I receive per diem or be expected to travel?
No per diem will be issued. Technicians report to their lab facility daily. This position does not include travel or work outside.
Employment:
Will I be working for the federal government?
No, employment with the VCP is through our contractor, New South Associates. You will not be a federal employee while in this position.
How much is the pay?
Technician wages are set according to the Service Contract Act. Technicians in the Augusta, GA; St. Louis, MO; and Alexandria, VA labs earn $20.86 plus $4.60 per hour for a combined hourly rate of $25.46. Technicians in the San Mateo, CA lab earn $24.86 plus $4.60 per hour for a combined rate of $29.46. Pay rates are determined based on the local cost of living for each lab.
Do you use my GI Bill?
No, this is not an internship or formal training program. We do not use your GI Bill. This program is set up like a normal, paid job with on-the-job training.
Do I have to want to get a job in this field?
You do not need to be seeking a career in archaeology or archives. In fact, the majority of our technicians do not look for positions within these fields. We have had technicians start careers in everything ranging from entrepreneurship, to dental hygiene, to IT. We just ask that you are open to learning more about archaeology and archives and preserving the past!
Will I be placed in a job at the end of these five months?
While we will assist you in finding a job, we do not directly place technicians in jobs. Technicians will use paid Professional Growth and Development time during the day starting mid-way through each session to work towards their career goals. Staff can help with editing resumes, writing cover letters, conducting internet-based job searches, research towards finding a school or program, and much more!
Do I need to have experience in archaeology or archives?
No, this is an entry-level position, aimed to provide training in skills that can easily be transferred to other jobs and careers. We train to successfully use Microsoft Office, digital artifact photography, document digitization, and formal report writing, among other varied skills.
What if I get a job in the middle of the program?
That’s great! We want to see you succeed and are happy to work with you to transition from the VCP to your new career!