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Archaeological Excavation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The work will involve archaeological excavation (i.e., test units), feature documentation, mapping and profiling, shovel testing, surface survey, and screening for artifacts. Phase III investigations ...

... archaeological excavation. The successful candidate(s) can be based out of Northern, Central, or Southern California. Requirements Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree in Archaeology, or ...

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Archaeological Excavation information

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$31.5K

$60.7K

$97K

How much do archaeological excavation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for archaeological excavation 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 in the Archaeological Excavation position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Archaeological Excavation, you need a solid background in archaeology or anthropology, practical fieldwork experience, and knowledge of excavation techniques and safety protocols. Familiarity with tools such as trowels, GIS mapping software, total stations, and often certification in First Aid or archaeological fieldwork is expected. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong teamwork and communication skills set standout professionals apart. These competencies are vital to ensure precise recovery of artifacts, efficient collaboration on-site, and adherence to safety and preservation standards.

What jobs can you do with archaeology?

With a background in archaeology, you can work as an archaeological technician, field archaeologist, museum curator, heritage manager, or cultural resource specialist. These roles often involve excavation, research, preservation, and public education, requiring skills in excavation techniques, documentation, and sometimes specialized tools or software.

What is the highest paying archeologist job?

Senior archaeological consultants, project directors, or specialized roles such as cultural resource managers tend to have the highest salaries in archaeology, often earning six-figure incomes. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills, and may involve overseeing large projects or working in private consulting firms.

Is there a high demand for archaeologists?

The demand for archaeologists is generally steady but varies by region and funding availability. Employment opportunities are often found in academic institutions, government agencies, and cultural resource management firms, with a need for skills in excavation, analysis, and reporting. Job growth is expected to be slow but consistent over the coming years.

What is an Archaeological Excavation job?

An archaeological excavation job involves the systematic uncovering and analysis of historical artifacts, structures, and other cultural remains buried underground. Archaeologists and field technicians use careful digging techniques, documentation, and scientific methods to study past civilizations. These jobs often take place at historical sites and require physical labor, attention to detail, and collaboration with a research team. The goal is to preserve and interpret cultural heritage while advancing our understanding of human history.

What is the typical work environment like for an Archaeological Excavation role?

Archaeological Excavation professionals often work outdoors at excavation sites, which can range from remote countryside locations to urban environments, depending on the project. The work is physically demanding and may require extended periods of kneeling, digging, and lifting in varying weather conditions. Teams usually consist of field archaeologists, supervisors, students, and sometimes volunteers, fostering a collaborative environment where clear communication is essential. While much of the job involves fieldwork, tasks such as artifact cataloging and report writing are also common. This variety ensures each day is dynamic and provides opportunities to contribute to meaningful discoveries and preserve historical sites.

What is the 50 year rule in archeology?

The 50-year rule in archaeology states that artifacts and records are generally considered accessible for study if they are at least 50 years old. This guideline helps determine what materials can be legally excavated or studied, and it often influences preservation and access policies for archaeological sites and collections.
More about Archaeological Excavation jobs
What cities are hiring for Archaeological Excavation jobs? Cities with the most Archaeological Excavation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Archaeological Excavation jobs? The most popular types of Archaeological Excavation jobs are:
What states have the most Archaeological Excavation jobs? States with the most job openings for Archaeological Excavation jobs include:
Infographic showing various Archaeological Excavation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 44% Full Time, 39% Part Time, 11% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,710 per year, or $29.2 per hour.
Archaeological Technician I

Archaeological Technician I

Epsilon Systems Solutions

Las Cruces, NM • On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Archaeological Technician I: Epsilon Systems Solutions, Inc. is currently seeking part time Archaeological Technicians in New Mexico.
Summary:
Under the routine guidance of supervisory staff, Archaeological Technicians perform archaeological fieldwork inclusive of survey, site recording, excavation, and/or monitoring. Effective communication, a good work ethic, and the ability to take instruction are preferred skills for this position.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Performs pedestrian survey for the identification of historic and prehistoric cultural resources
  • Performs in-field analysis and documentation of archaeological artifacts and features
  • Assists with resource photography and mapping in the field
  • Collects Navigation and GPS data collection (knowledge of ArcGIS Field Maps is a plus)
  • Prepares Laboratory of Anthropology and Historic Cultural Properties Inventory forms
  • Drive to project and work sites to conduct fieldwork, inspections, and on-site evaluations as required.
  • Conducts subsurface testing of archaeological resources
  • Conducts archaeological monitoring.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in archaeology, anthropology or a related field
  • Completion of Archaeological Field School
  • Valid Driver's license
  • Clean driving record and be insurable to operate company vehicles
  • Applicant must be able to pass a background check for access to U.S. Military installations.
  • Ability to conduct fieldwork in extreme terrain and environmental conditions.

Pay Range:
The pay range for this position is$23 to $25 Per Hour. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors such as business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.
ADA Notations:
  • The position requires a mixture of both sedentary office/laboratory work and fieldwork performed outdoors, sometimes in remote areas.
  • Must be able to walk up to 8-12 miles daily with field pack and ample water, over rough terrain in variable weather conditions, which may include high temperatures in summer months.
  • Must be able to work outdoors under extreme temperature, strenuous physical effort associated with hiking during archaeological reconnaissance and surveys, such as climbing steep slopes, and physical labor such as stooping, bending, carrying loads in excess of 50 pounds associated with archaeological excavation work.
  • Ability to travel by car, truck, air, or other means of transportation, if required.
  • Must be able to drive in remote areas, if required.

Epsilon Systems Solutions, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.