Women in Archeology Internship

June 7-August 15, 2026

The Center for American Archeology (CAA), Kampsville, IL, invites applications for four Women in Archeology Internship positions for the 2026 field season, June 7-August 15. This internship is for women undergraduates, graduate students, and archaeologists in the early stages of their careers with at least six weeks of field and laboratory experience. Applicants who have completed four consecutive weeks of the CAA’s Adult Field School will also be considered.

Individuals interested in public archaeology, museum education, and other closely related fields are encouraged to apply. Successful candidates will be team-players with a strong work ethic, communication skills, and a passion for archaeology and engaging students and the public.

Funded by a generous grant from the Monticello College Foundation, the Women in Archeology Internship provides an opportunity for participants to enhance their professional skills in research planning, field and laboratory supervision, teaching, and public outreach as part of the CAA’s award-winning programs. Interns will work with CAA archaeologists as key supervisory and teaching personnel in our High School Field SchoolAdult Field School, and University Field School.

Interns will also be responsible for creating a research paper or poster to be presented at the 2026 Midwest Archaeological Conference in Mankato, MN. Interns receive travel support to participate in the conference.

Compensation

Interns will receive a $3,500 stipend, room, and board for the 10-week program. The meal plan includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner Monday-Friday and Saturday breakfast.

Interns will also receive $625 to attend the 2026 Midwest Archaeological Conference. 

Interns are responsible for providing their own transportation to and from Kampsville, as well as personal spending money.

Requirements

  • Applicants must be one of the following:
    • an advanced undergraduate (junior or senior standing),
    • a graduate student (including those beginning graduate school in the 2025-2026 academic year),
    • or in the early stages of their career (B.A./B.S. within the past four years).
  • At least six weeks of archaeological field and laboratory experience or four consecutive weeks of the CAA’s Adult Field School is required.
    • Mock excavation and courses about excavation are not considered field experience for this internship
  • All interns must be 21 years or older by the start of the program.
  • A valid drivers license is required.

Please note: There will be no exceptions for the experience, age, and/or license requirements.

Application Process

The selection process will consider your statement of interest, recommendation from professors/instructors, curriculum vitae, and academic record. Finalist candidates will be interviewed by phone.

The following materials should be submitted to the Center for American Archeology for consideration and received no later than 11:59 PM CST on Sunday, March 29, 2026

  • Internship Application Form
  • Cover letter/Statement of interest in which you
    • describe yourself and experience,
    • why you would like to participate in the program,
    • your career goals,
    • how this program will benefit you,
    • and how your participation will enhance our program and students’ experiences.
  • Curriculum vitae: you must include your current school or alma mater; current contact information, including email address, mailing address, and phone number, and where we can reach you if you are away from school.
  • Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended.
  • Two letters of recommendation from a professor/instructor who can comment on your interests and abilities.
    • One letter must be from someone who has supervised you in the field and can speak to your field experience.

If you have previous experience working with the public, please describe this experience in your statement of interest. Previous teaching experience or experience interacting with children and adults of all ages is not required, but is considered in the selection process.

Your references should email their recommendation letter to the CAA at the address below.

Send all application material to:

Email: education@caa-archeology.org

or

Women in Archeology Internship Program
Center for American Archeology
P.O. Box 366
Kampsville, IL 62053

Electronic submissions are preferred. You will receive an email acknowledging receipt of your application material.

Application received after the deadline and incomplete applications will not be considered. We will not send reminders about incomplete applications.

The Center for American Archeology is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Questions: If you have any questions, please contact the CAA at education@caa-archeology.org or 618-653-4316 for more information.