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Archaeological Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Archaeological information

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$31.5K

$60.7K

$97K

How much do archaeological jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for archaeological in the United States is $60,710.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Archaeologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Archaeologist, you need a solid grounding in anthropology, history, and field research methods, typically supported by a relevant degree in archaeology or a related discipline. Familiarity with GIS software, excavation tools, and artifact analysis techniques is commonly required, and certifications in fieldwork safety or conservation can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help archaeologists interpret findings and collaborate with diverse teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate research, preserving cultural heritage, and sharing knowledge within academic and public contexts.

What are some common challenges faced by archaeologists during fieldwork, and how are they typically addressed?

Archaeologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, remote locations, and delicate excavation conditions that require careful handling of artifacts. Fieldwork can also involve coordinating with local authorities and communities to ensure compliance with regulations and respect for cultural heritage. Teams typically address these challenges through thorough planning, adaptability, and strong communication, ensuring safety and the integrity of the archaeological site. Collaboration with specialists, such as conservators and surveyors, is also essential for overcoming technical difficulties and ensuring successful research outcomes.

What do archaeologists do?

Archaeologists study human history by excavating sites and analyzing artifacts, structures, and other physical remains. Their work involves careful research, fieldwork, and laboratory analysis to uncover information about past cultures and societies. Archaeologists often work on digs, catalog finds, and use various scientific techniques to date and interpret their discoveries. They may specialize in particular regions, time periods, or types of artifacts, and their findings help us better understand human development over time.

What is the difference between Archaeological vs Archaeological Technician?

AspectArchaeologicalArchaeological Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in archaeology or related fieldAssociate's or bachelor's degree, often specialized in fieldwork
Work EnvironmentField excavations, research labs, museumsField excavations, site surveys, lab analysis
Employer & IndustryUniversities, government agencies, museumsConstruction firms, archaeological consulting companies
Common Search & ComparisonMore research and analysis-focusedMore hands-on, fieldwork-oriented

In summary, Archaeological roles typically involve research, analysis, and interpretation of artifacts, requiring higher education. Archaeological Technicians focus on fieldwork, excavation, and data collection, often with specialized technical training. Both roles are essential in archaeology but differ mainly in responsibilities and educational requirements.

More about Archaeological jobs
What cities are hiring for Archaeological jobs? Cities with the most Archaeological job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Archaeological jobs? The most popular types of Archaeological jobs are:
What states have the most Archaeological jobs? States with the most job openings for Archaeological jobs include:
Infographic showing various Archaeological job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,710 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

$18.75 - $23/hr

Temporary

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Title: Archaeological Technician
Location: Continental US
Job Code: AT_2026
Job Link: SEARCH Job Postings - Direct Applications
Position Information
SEARCH has immediate openings for Part-Time, As Needed (on-call) Archaeological Technicians to support upcoming archaeological surveys and excavation projects. Under direct supervision, an Archaeological Technician performs and supports archaeological surveys, assessments, monitoring, and data recovery projects using techniques appropriate to each task. The primary duty is to provide field support to cultural resource projects. This role requires basic knowledge of archaeological field survey, excavation, and laboratory techniques.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Conduct archaeological survey, monitoring, and excavation in support of fieldwork for Phase I, II, and III studies.
  • Adhere to project health and safety plan and participate in office and field training.
  • Use electronic and traditional navigational equipment (GPS, iPad/ArcCollector/Survey 123, compass, and transit) to orient yourself and perform fieldwork.
  • Photo-document artifacts, ecofacts, features, excavation units, land use, landscapes, unique environmental features, historic structures, archaeological sites, unique environmental features, and work in progress and record an accurate photo log.
  • Record accurate, organized, and clear field notes, maps, drawings, logs, forms, tables, databases, artifact bags, box labels, and other project documentation.
  • Collect artifacts, ecofacts, and samples in accordance with the research design and keep an accurate field specimen log.
  • Complete project tasks and errands as directed by the Archaeologist, Senior Archaeologist, and/or other project leadership.
  • Maintain and organize field equipment, supplies, vehicles, and work site.
  • Procure field equipment and supplies.
  • Travel for extended periods of time.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements
Qualifications Required:
    • Bachelor's degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or a closely related field.
    • Completion of an accredited archaeological field school and/or six months of field experience.
    • Valid driver's license, a good driving record, and access to reliable transportation.
    • Ability to obtain a government security clearance.

Application Requirements:
    • Cover letter
    • Resume
    • 2-3 Professional references

Other Important Need-To-Know Information
    • This position will require flexible availability outside of standard working hours.
    • Applicants must be eligible to be employed in the United States.
    • SEARCH is strongly committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where a variety of backgrounds, cultures, orientations, ideas, and talents can flourish.
    • SEARCH is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
    • SEARCH is an Affirmative Action Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace.
    • Employment offers are contingent upon satisfactory verification of criminal, education, driving, and/or employment background checks as well as passing results from a pre-employment drug screen.
    • We will endeavor to make a reasonable accommodation to the known limitations of a qualified applicant with a disability unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. If you believe you require such assistance to complete this form or, if requested, to participate in an interview, please let us know.

Physical Demands:
    • To successfully perform the duties and responsibilities of the job, the employee should have the ability to meet the physical demands of the position, including:
    • Hear normal conversations and receive ordinary information.
    • Communicate verbally and in writing.
    • Use average and ordinary visual acuity necessary to excavate and inspect artifacts and distinguish features.
    • Carry up to 50 lbs. occasionally.
    • Sit for extended periods during travel or in an office.
    • Walk up to 5.0 miles per day carrying gear over uneven terrain.
    • Undertake physical work outside, often in inclement weather.
    • Travel to remote locations, frequently up to or exceeding 10 consecutive days away from home.
    • Drive for extended periods up to 11 hours per day.

About SEARCH:
Overland and underwater, SEARCH is an archaeology firm that deploys the full spectrum of cultural heritage services worldwide. SEARCH2O, its maritime program, is at the forefront of historic shipwreck and submerged pre-contact archaeology, paleolandscape reconstruction, and deep-water archaeology. SEARCH's staff are cultural resources industry leaders, pioneers, and subject matter experts across 45 Market, Regional, and Research Sectors. Since 1993, SEARCH has completed more than 5,000 commercial and government projects in 48 US states, 6 US territories, and 39 countries spanning 7 continents and 4 oceans. By integrating science, technology, and creativity, SEARCH harnesses the power of the past to advance the projects, places, and people it serves.
For more information about SEARCH, please visit searchinc.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter
Please send inquiries about the position to jorge.quintana@searchinc.com. Include the Job Posting code (AT-2026) in the subject line of your email.