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Archaeological Curation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Troy University

Archaeological Technician II

Troy, AL · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

The curation tasks involve processing any newly acquired collections for curation, stabilizing ... Additionally, this position will have research opportunities with the Archaeology faculty. Minimum ...

Troy University

Archaeological Technician I

Troy, AL · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

Posting Details Position Information Posting Number ST1362P Position Title Archaeological ... The curation tasks involve processing any newly acquired collections for curation, stabilizing ...

NV5

Archaeological Technician

Alpharetta, GA

Process artifacts and samples, including cataloging and curation efforts. * Maintain effective and ... Completion of an archaeological field school, required * Bachelor's Degree in anthropology ...

NV5

Archaeological Technician

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

Process artifacts and samples, including cataloging and curation efforts. * Maintain effective and ... Completion of an archaeological field school, required * Bachelor's Degree in anthropology ...

Transformright LLC

Archeologist

Round Rock, TX

Assists in making decisions about project alternatives and the resolution of adverse effects to archaeological resources * Prepares artifacts and project records for curation * Works with technical ...

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Stantec

Archaeological Field Director

Harrisburg, PA · On-site

Manage artifact processing, organization, inventory, and curation Data & Tools * Direct data ... Graduate degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or a closely related field * Minimum 1 year of ...

NV5

Archaeological Technician

Alpharetta, GA

Process artifacts and samples, including cataloging and curation efforts. * Maintain effective and ... Completion of an archaeological field school, required * Bachelor's Degree in anthropology ...

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Archaeological Curation information

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$31.5K

$60.7K

$97K

How much do archaeological curation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for archaeological curation 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.

How to become an archaeological curator?

To become an archaeological curator, typically a bachelor's degree in archaeology, anthropology, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or doctoral degree for advanced positions. Relevant skills include knowledge of conservation techniques, cataloging, and museum practices, along with experience through internships or fieldwork. Certification or training in conservation or museum management can also enhance job prospects.

What is the difference between Archaeological Curation vs Archaeological Collections Manager?

AspectArchaeological CurationArchaeological Collections Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in archaeology, anthropology, or related fieldSimilar credentials, often with additional management or conservation training
Work EnvironmentMuseums, archaeological sites, research institutionsMuseums, cultural heritage organizations, research facilities
Job FocusPreserving, documenting, and managing archaeological artifactsOverseeing collection care, storage, and access for research and exhibitions

Both roles involve managing archaeological artifacts, but Archaeological Curation focuses more on preservation and documentation, while Archaeological Collections Managers handle overall collection management and access. They often work together within museums or research institutions to ensure artifacts are preserved and accessible for study and display.

What is the 50 year rule in archeology?

The 50 year rule in archaeological curation states that artifacts and records are generally considered open for research and public access if they are at least 50 years old. This guideline helps determine when collections can be transferred from private to public institutions and when they are available for study, often requiring proper documentation and preservation standards. It is a common standard used by curators to manage and prioritize collections for conservation and research.

Do museum curators get paid well?

Museum curators, including those specializing in archaeological curation, typically earn a median salary that varies by experience, location, and institution size, with salaries often ranging from $40,000 to $80,000 annually. Advanced degrees, specialized knowledge, and experience can lead to higher pay, especially in larger or more prominent museums. However, salaries are generally moderate compared to other professions requiring similar education levels.

What is the highest paying job in archaeology?

The highest paying roles in archaeology are often senior positions such as Archaeological Directors or Principal Investigators, who oversee large projects and have extensive experience. These roles typically require advanced degrees, strong management skills, and often involve consulting or working for government agencies or private firms, with salaries reaching six figures in some cases.
More about Archaeological Curation jobs
What cities are hiring for Archaeological Curation jobs? Cities with the most Archaeological Curation job openings:
What states have the most Archaeological Curation jobs? States with the most job openings for Archaeological Curation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Archaeological Curation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Archaeological Curation jobs are:
Archaeological Curation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Archaeological Curation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,710 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Laboratory Archaeologist (Arizona)

Southeastern Archaeological Research, LLC. "SEARCH"

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Title: Laboratory Archaeologist
Location: Tucson, AZ
Job Code: Lab_AZ_25
Job Link: SEARCH Job Postings

Position Information

SEARCH has an opening for a Full-Time Laboratory Archaeologist to join our Archaeology Lab team. This position is based out of our Tucson, Arizona office. This role will work within a cohesive lab environment committed to analyzing archaeological material from intake to curation in concert with laboratory staff supporting multiple projects, including projects for Federal and State government agencies.

SEARCH provides a flexible work environment, a professional and collaborative atmosphere, and a wide range of projects and opportunities for our staff. SEARCH offers a competitive total compensation package with strong health and wellness and retirement plans. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, group term life insurance, 401(k) plan with match, 11 paid holidays per year, and paid time off (PTO). Pay is commensurate with education and experience.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Intake, organize, analyze, and prepare archaeological artifacts for analysis (including artifact stability assessment and washing).
  • Maintain artifact provenience at all stages of lab analysis.
  • Perform general analysis on a full range of material culture artifacts.
  • Conduct independent research of lithics and other artifacts as needed.
  • Draft artifact descriptions for the inclusion in technical reports.
  • Assist with photographing and editing artifacts for report graphics.
  • Write and label artifacts and bags clearly and precisely.
  • Perform curation activities to project standards.
  • Independently finalize and deliver curated projects.
  • Assist in delivering finalized data to Principal Investigators/Project Managers.
  • Perform data entry using Microsoft Access and Excel.
  • Maintain strict adherence to budgeted hours and project goals.
  • Comply and adhere to established laboratory procedures, protocols, and health and safety procedures.
  • Assist in daily monitoring of laboratory duties.
  • Assist in maintaining project and curation inventories.
  • Maintain lab organization.
  • Track lab supplies and inform the Lab Manager when supplies are low.
  • Keep appraised of research literature regarding artifact analysis.
  • Maintain knowledge regarding industry standards in archeological curation.
  • Keep a list of technical and analytical skills, updating list upon learning and adapting new skills.
  • Travel, possibly for extended periods, to other SEARCH offices and lead laboratory projects and field labs.
  • Maintain the highest professional image for our clients, co-workers, media, and the public.
  • Possess a positive attitude and strong work ethic, promoting SEARCH values across the company.
  • Other duties, as assigned.

Requirements

Qualifications Required:

  • Degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or a related field.
  • Minimum two years laboratory experience in the identification of archaeological artifacts.
  • Knowledge of methods pertaining to the recovery, treatment, identification, and qualitative, quantitative, and statistical analysis of cultural materials.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of identification and analysis of Southwestern cultural materials.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory curation standards and methodologies.
  • Prior archaeology fieldwork experience.
  • Completion of an archaeological field school.
  • Technical writing ability.
  • The ability to work well in a team environment, under the direction of a Laboratory Director and/or Laboratory Manager.


Qualifications Preferred:

  • Post-graduate degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated experience Arizona State Museum curation methodologies and standards.
  • Specialist/experienced with Southwestern lithics, ceramics, faunal, and shell materials in archaeological contexts.
  • Understanding of the Cultural Resource Management (CRM) industry (firms, clients, contracts, new research, and projects) at the regionwide, nationwide, and worldwide level.


Application Requirements:

  • Cover letter
  • Resume
  • References
  • Writing samples (if a collaborative report, identify sections authored) of material analysis and dissemination of findings.


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.

Benefits

SEARCH Compensation and Benefits include:

  • Competitive Salary
  • Per Diem (for overnight travel)
  • SEARCH-subsidized Group Health Insurance (including Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage)
  • SEARCH-provided Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • SEARCH-provided Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • SEARCH-provided Group Term Life Insurance
  • Voluntary Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Emergency Travel Assistance
  • Generous 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Paid Holidays (11)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Merit-Based Raises, Bonuses, and Promotions


About SEARCH:

SEARCH is a global leader in archaeology, maritime archaeology, and the full spectrum of cultural heritage services. SEARCH’s staff are industry leaders and subject matter experts who support commercial and government clients worldwide. Since 1993, SEARCH has completed over 5,000 projects nationwide and across 44 countries, spanning seven continents and four 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 X.

Please send inquiries about the position to HR@searchinc.com. Include the Job Posting code (Lab_AZ_25) in the subject line of your email.