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Archaeological Monitor information

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$31.5K

$60.7K

$97K

How much do archaeological monitor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for archaeological monitor 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 is an archaeological monitor?

Archaeological monitors are professionals who oversee construction or development projects to ensure that any archaeological resources, such as artifacts or features, are identified and properly managed if encountered. Their primary role is to observe excavation activities, assess potential impacts on cultural resources, and work with project managers and regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with preservation laws. They document any findings and may recommend appropriate actions, such as halting work or conducting further archaeological investigations. Archaeological monitors help balance development needs with the protection of historical sites.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an archaeological monitor?

To thrive as an Archaeological Monitor, you need a background in archaeology or anthropology, experience with field survey techniques, and often a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with GPS/GIS mapping tools, field documentation systems, and sometimes OSHA safety certifications is typically required. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for accurately recording findings and coordinating with construction teams. These competencies ensure cultural resources are properly identified, protected, and reported during land development or excavation projects.

What are the main challenges archaeological monitors face during construction projects?

Archaeological Monitors often work on active construction sites, where balancing the pace of development with the need to protect and record cultural resources can be challenging. They must be vigilant and responsive, quickly identifying artifacts or features while ensuring minimal disruption to construction schedules. Effective communication with construction teams, flexibility in adapting to changing site conditions, and thorough documentation are crucial skills for overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Archaeological Monitor vs Archaeological Technician?

AspectArchaeological MonitorArchaeological Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in archaeology or related fieldOften requires a degree or relevant experience in archaeology or fieldwork
Work EnvironmentOn-site during construction or excavation projects, observing and documentingFieldwork involving excavation, data collection, and lab work
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by construction firms, government agencies, and archaeological firmsEmployed by archaeological firms, research institutions, and government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for fieldwork roles in archaeologyRelated but more involved in excavation and analysis

The main difference is that an Archaeological Monitor primarily observes and documents during construction to prevent damage to archaeological sites, while an Archaeological Technician actively participates in excavation and data collection. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Do archaeological monitors make good money?

Archaeological monitors typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and project complexity. The role often requires fieldwork, knowledge of archaeological methods, and sometimes certification, which can influence earning potential.

What do archaeological monitors do?

Archaeological monitors oversee construction or excavation projects to ensure compliance with preservation laws and identify archaeological resources. They often work on-site, documenting findings, and may hold certifications in archaeology or cultural resource management. Their role helps prevent damage to archaeological sites during development activities.
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What states have the most Archaeological Monitor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Archaeological Monitor jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Archaeological Monitor jobs?

For Archaeological Monitor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Archaeological Monitor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Archaeological Monitor job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,710 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Archaeological Monitor

New York, NY • On-site

Unified Business Technologies Inc
Personal Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Unified Business Technologies Incexternal

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description:

We are seeking a qualified Archaeological Monitor to support construction activities at Jacob Riis Park in Queens, New York.

The Archaeological Monitor will observe designated ground-disturbing activities, particularly excavations exceeding four feet, and provide field monitoring, documentation, coordination, and reporting in accordance with National Park Service requirements. 

Responsibilities
  • Monitor designated excavation and ground-disturbing construction activities in real time. 
  • Observe excavated materials and soil conditions for potential cultural resources. 
  • Document findings, materials, conditions, context, and provenience. 
  • Record monitoring locations using stationing and GPS. 
  • Conduct sediment screening using ¼-inch mesh or finer when required. 
  • Assist with hand-tool excavation when appropriate. 
  • Maintain field notes, subsurface logs, soil profiles, photographs, and associated documentation. 
  • Coordinate with construction crews, the CMR, NPS personnel, and other project stakeholders. 
  • Identify isolated finds and potential archaeological sites. 
  • Support implementation of site-protection measures and limits of disturbance. 
  • Implement required procedures for inadvertent discoveries. 
  • Assist with temporary work stoppages when cultural resources, artifacts, or human remains are discovered. 
  • Prepare required archaeological reporting and GIS deliverables. 
  • Support Tribal Cultural Specialist participation when applicable. 
Requirements:

Candidates must meet the Secretary of the Interior Professional Qualification Standards applicable to the position, including:

  • Graduate degree in archaeology, anthropology, or a closely related field. 
  • At least 1 year of full-time professional experience or equivalent specialized training in archaeological research, administration, or management. 
  • At least 4 months of supervised field and analytic experience in general North American archaeology. 
  • Demonstrated ability to carry archaeological research through completion. 
  • Ability to perform archaeological monitoring, field documentation, coordination, and technical reporting. 
  • Ability to work safely around active construction and excavation operations. 
  • Ability to provide credentials/supporting documentation demonstrating compliance with the qualification requirements.  
Preferred Experience
  • Previous archaeological monitoring on construction projects. 
  • Previous NPS, DOI, or other federal agency experience. 
  • GPS/GIS field-data collection experience. 
  • Experience preparing archaeological findings reports. 
  • Experience working under ARPA or similar cultural-resource requirements.