The Veterans Curation Program (VCP) is a temporary employment and training program, during which veterans receive training in archaeological processing. Using industry-specific technology and software, veterans work to repackage, photograph, and catalog important archaeological collections. These collections can include artifacts and their associated records, as well as historic documents and photographs.
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.
The program provides hands-on laboratory experience in archaeological and historical work. Skills learned, such as digital photography and database entry, are applicable in many different fields.
Every program participant receives paid personal growth and development assistance, including time and instruction for resume building and job searches. For technicians hired through New South Associates at one of the four flagship locations all federal holidays are paid in addition to up to one week of personal time off, which can be used for medical appointments or other purposes. All VCP flagship laboratories (Alexandria, VA; Augusta, GA; St. Louis, MO; and San Mateo, CA) are ADA compliant (with the exception of some collections storage areas). We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Technicians are expected to complete their allotted hours during standard work hours which vary per lab location. Facilities are not open during the evenings or weekends. Hours for each position range between 20-40 hours per week, but these hours can be made flexible upon mutual agreement. No overtime is permitted. The period of employment is expected to last up to five months in the flagship lab locations (Alexandria, VA; Augusta, GA; St. Louis, MO; and San Mateo, CA) beginning in either November or May. The period of employment for the satellite lab (on-site, university-based) locations (like Texas State University) varies by location and position availability, but generally lasts up to one year. The program does not provide financial assistance for relocation expenses or assistance finding housing.
During the program, veteran technicians create a professional civilian resume with assistance from the VCP staff. We’re happy to share our tips and tools for producing a polished resume. You can download our Resume Tools HERE.