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Archaeological Geophysics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Establish and enforce QA/QC procedures for archaeological data review, interpretation, and reporting * Integrate geophysical data with archival research, historical context, and ground-truthing ...

Project Archaeologist

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Overview TRC is seeking a Project Archaeologist for our Environmental Sector reporting to our Planning, Permitting, and Licensing Practice in Louisiana. This person will work on large-scale and small ...

Project Archaeologist

Austin, TX · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

Direct all types of archaeological projects, ranging from small local surveys through large, multi-year and multi-state projects * Handle planning, logistics, and supervision of fieldwork for ...

Archaeological Geophysics information

See salary details

$31.5K

$60.7K

$97K

How much do archaeological geophysics jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for archaeological geophysics 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 does a typical day look like for someone working in Archaeological Geophysics?

A typical day in Archaeological Geophysics often involves both fieldwork and office-based tasks. Field activities might include setting up and operating geophysical equipment, collecting data from archaeological sites, and ensuring safety and accuracy during surveys. Once back in the office, you analyze collected data using specialized software, create maps or reports, and collaborate with archaeologists and other experts to interpret findings. Many roles also involve travel to different sites, adapting to various conditions, and working as part of multidisciplinary teams. This variety keeps the role dynamic and provides ample learning opportunities for those passionate about both science and history.

What is an Archaeological Geophysics job?

An Archaeological Geophysics job involves using non-invasive geophysical methods to detect and map buried archaeological features. Professionals in this field use technologies like ground-penetrating radar, magnetometry, and electrical resistance surveys to study historical sites without excavation. They work closely with archaeologists to interpret data and guide excavation efforts. This role requires knowledge of geophysics, archaeology, and data analysis to uncover and understand past civilizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Archaeological Geophysics position, and why are they important?

To excel in Archaeological Geophysics, you need a solid background in geophysical survey techniques, data analysis, and a relevant degree in archaeology, geophysics, or earth sciences. Familiarity with geophysical instrumentation (such as ground-penetrating radar, magnetometers, resistivity meters) and proficiency with GIS and data interpretation software are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills set top professionals apart in this field. These skills enable accurate subsurface exploration, clear reporting of findings, and efficient collaboration on archaeological projects.

What is geophysics in archaeology?

In archaeological geophysics, the job involves using non-invasive methods such as ground-penetrating radar, magnetometry, and resistivity surveys to detect and map subsurface archaeological features. These techniques help archaeologists locate buried structures, artifacts, and features without excavation, requiring knowledge of geophysical equipment and data interpretation. The work often involves field surveys, data analysis, and reporting to support archaeological research and preservation efforts.
What are the most commonly searched types of Archaeological Geophysics jobs? The most popular types of Archaeological Geophysics jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Archaeological Geophysics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Archaeological Geophysics jobs are:
Maritime Archaeologist Project Manager

Maritime Archaeologist Project Manager

APTIM

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


APTIM rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Overview:
APTIM Environmental & Infrastructure LLC, a leading engineering and environmental firm with a thriving coastal engineering and resilience practice, is pleased to announce an immediate opening in our Tampa, FL office for a Maritime Archaeologist/Project Manager. The successful candidate will serve as a technical and regulatory lead for marine cultural resources projects. This is a high-impact role for an experienced professional who meets (or exceeds) Secretary of the Interior (SOI) standards and can function as a Qualified Maritime Archaeologist (QMA). The ideal candidate will be able to step into active projects with minimal onboarding, lead cultural resources efforts independently, and produce defensible, regulator-ready deliverables. APTIM supports offshore energy, coastal restoration, and marine infrastructure projects nationwide. Our work requires close integration between archaeology, marine geophysics, and engineering disciplines. This position is primarily office-based, focused on project management, data interpretation, QA/QC, and reporting, with some offshore survey participation expected.
Responsibilities:
APTIM seeks to hire a full-time Maritime Archaeologist / Project Manager in our Tampa, FL office. The position will involve leading marine cultural resources projects from planning through execution and final reporting, including the field collection, review and interpretation of marine geophysical data for archaeological assessments. The successful candidate will serve as a senior technical authority, overseeing and participating in marine data collection, archaeological evaluations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and producing high-quality deliverables that support offshore development and permitting efforts. The role includes coordination with multidisciplinary teams, clients, and regulatory agencies, as well as mentorship of junior staff.
Responsibilities:
  • Serve as lead maritime archaeologist on projects requiring compliance with Section 106 and related federal and state regulations
  • Act as or support the Qualified Maritime Archaeologist (QMA) responsible for project-specific archaeological interpretations, recommendations, and technical sign-off
  • Manage maritime archaeology scopes across multiple concurrent projects, including planning, execution, budgeting, and schedule adherence
  • Serve as Project Manager or technical lead and primary point of contact for clients and internal teams
  • Interface directly with regulatory agencies (e.g., BOEM, SHPOs) and represent APTIM in technical discussions
  • Lead the collection, review and interpretation of marine geophysical datasets (sidescan sonar, magnetometer, sub-bottom profiler) for identification of potential cultural resources
  • Direct anomaly screening, prioritization, and investigation strategies for archaeological targets
  • Establish and enforce QA/QC procedures for archaeological data review, interpretation, and reporting
  • Integrate geophysical data with archival research, historical context, and ground-truthing results
  • Lead preparation and final QA/QC of technical deliverables, including Phase I archaeological assessments, remote sensing reports, and clearance/avoidance recommendations
  • Ensure all deliverables are technically defensible, internally consistent, and regulator-ready
  • Support proposal development, including technical approach, scope definition, and cost estimating
  • Mentor junior and mid-level staff and contribute to the growth and development of the cultural resources team
  • Provide some offshore support for critical project phases or technical oversight
  • Support proposal development, including scope definition, technical approach, and cost estimating.
  • Contribute to business development and client engagement efforts.
  • Provide technical input for project planning and survey design.

Qualifications/Competencies/Experience:
  • Master's degree (preferred) or Bachelor's degree in Maritime Archaeology, Archaeology, Anthropology, or related field
  • 7+ years of relevant experience in maritime archaeology or marine cultural resources
  • Meets Secretary of the Interior (SOI) Professional Qualification Standards for Archaeology
  • Demonstrated experience functioning as a Qualified Maritime Archaeologist (QMA) or equivalent lead role
  • Proven ability to independently develop and defend archaeological interpretations and recommendations
  • Extensive experience collecting, reviewing and interpreting marine geophysical data for cultural resources identification
  • Strong technical writing skills with a demonstrated record of regulator-accepted deliverables
  • Experience with federal and state regulatory frameworks, including Section 106 compliance
  • Experience supporting offshore energy, coastal restoration, or marine infrastructure projects
  • Proven experience with geophysical survey methods and datasets (sidescan sonar, magnetometer, sub-bottom profiler, boomer)
  • Proficiency with GIS platforms (e.g., ArcGIS)
  • Experience preparing clearance/avoidance recommendations for offshore investigations (e.g., vibracores, borings, anchoring activities)
  • Strong project management skills, including budgeting, scheduling, and coordination of staff, equipment and subcontracted resources
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment, both in-office and in the field, working across multidisciplinary technical and project teams of varying experience levels.
  • Promote teamwork, coaches and guides others.
  • Ability to operate independently with minimal oversight and contribute immediately to active projects
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to clients, regulators, and internal teams

About APTIM:
APTIM enhances the quality of the environment, wellbeing of people, resilience of communities, and opportunities for employees to make a difference, not just a living. A leading professional solutions firm, we specialize in environmental, sustainability, resilience, and infrastructure solutions. Our team of experts provide these integrated solutions for forward-thinking government agencies, commercial and industrial clients, and energy customers. Together, we create sustainable and resilient communities for all.
What you can expect from APTIM:
  • Work that is worthy of your time and talent
  • Respect and flexibility to live a full life at work and at home
  • Dogged determination to deliver for our clients and communities
  • A voice in making our company better
  • Investment in your personal and professional development

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay range for this position is $105K-$125K per year. Compensation depends on several factors including experience, education, key skills, geographic location of the position, client requirements, external market competitiveness, and internal equity among other employees within APTIM.
Employee Benefits
APTIM Environmental & Infrastructure, LLC is committed to providing an extensive range of benefits that protect and promote the health and financial well-being of our employees and their families through the APTIM Benefits Marketplace https://aptim.makeityoursource.com/.
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance: Through the marketplace, our employees can choose benefits from five metallic levels and several carriers to find the right benefits that work for them in their location.
  • Company paid and optional Life insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance
  • Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity coverage
  • Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave (eligibility based on company policy and applicable law)
  • 401(k) APTIM offers three 401k plans through the Aon Pooled Employer Plan (PEP). The specific plan you are eligible for depends on the business unit you are in. The details of the largest plan are found here:
    • APTIM 401(k) Guide
    • APTIM - Helpful Documents

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