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Archaeologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VHB

Archaeologist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Overview ABOUT THE POSITION Archaeologist | Atlanta, GA VHB's Atlanta, GA office is seeking an Archaeologist to work with our Environmental Services Group. Key responsibilities of the position ...

VHB

Archaeologist

Atlanta, GA · Hybrid

ABOUT THE POSITION Archaeologist | Atlanta, GA VHB's Atlanta, GA office is seeking an Archaeologist to work with our Environmental Services Group. Key responsibilities of the position include ...

VHB

Archaeologist

Atlanta, GA · Hybrid

Overview ABOUT THE POSITION Archaeologist | Atlanta, GA VHB's Atlanta, GA office is seeking an Archaeologist to work with our Environmental Services Group. Key responsibilities of the position ...

Ladgov Corporation

Archaeologist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

ARCHAEOLOGIST FOR THE AAIHS, OEHE JOB LOCATION: Albuquerque Area Office 4101 Indian School Rd NE Suite 225 Albuquerque, NM 87110 SCHEDULE: TO BE DETERMINED DUTIES: The candidate shall: * Researching ...

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Archaeologist information

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$31.5K

$60.7K

$97K

How much do archaeologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for archaeologist 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 jobs can you do with archaeology?

Archaeologists can work in fields such as cultural resource management, museum curation, academic research, and heritage preservation. They often conduct excavations, analyze artifacts, and prepare reports, requiring skills in fieldwork, analysis, and sometimes specialized tools like GIS software. Opportunities exist in government agencies, universities, private consulting firms, and non-profit organizations.

Is it hard to find a job as an archeologist?

Finding a job as an archaeologist can be competitive, especially in popular regions or institutions, and often requires relevant field experience, a degree in archaeology or a related field, and sometimes specialized certifications. Opportunities are typically available in academia, government agencies, museums, and private consulting firms, but job availability can vary based on funding and project needs.

What are some common challenges archaeologists face when working on field excavations?

Archaeologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, remote or difficult-to-access dig sites, and the need to meticulously document findings under tight deadlines. Fieldwork may require extended periods away from home and working in physically demanding conditions. Additionally, archaeologists must adhere to strict protocols to preserve artifacts and collaborate closely with specialists, local communities, and governmental agencies to ensure ethical and legal compliance throughout the excavation process.

What Do Archaeologists Do?

Archaeologists investigate historic and prehistoric sites and physical remains to understand human links to the past and to preserve past cultures. Archaeologists find clues about the past. They use a variety of extraction or digging techniques. Equipment like trowels, pick-axes, and even bulldozers help archaeologists coordinate and participate in fieldwork to attempt to unearth artifacts, such as pottery, ancient tools, seeds, or animal bones. Archaeologists are also responsible for the conservation of the artifacts they recover. This usually involves bringing the items back to a lab to clean, restore, and stabilize them properly. Data collection is another key duty of the archaeologist. Before, during, and after the dig, the archaeologist records notes, images, soil samples, maps, measurements, and other information about the archaeological site. Archaeologists not only to find information but to use it to educate. Many archaeologists are professors and are involved in publishing and teaching.

Do archeologists make good money?

Archaeologists' salaries vary depending on experience, location, and employer, with median annual wages around $63,000 in the United States. Professionals working for government agencies, universities, or private firms with specialized skills and fieldwork experience tend to earn higher salaries. Entry-level positions often pay less, while senior roles or those with advanced certifications can command higher compensation.

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 background in anthropology, history, and field research methods, usually supported by a degree in archaeology or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, excavation tools, and laboratory analysis techniques is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and communication skills help distinguish top professionals in this role. These competencies are vital for accurately uncovering, interpreting, and preserving historical artifacts and sites.

What jobs do archaeologists get?

Archaeologists typically work in fields such as cultural resource management, academic research, museums, government agencies, and private consulting. They conduct excavations, analyze artifacts, and prepare reports, often requiring skills in fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and report writing. Employment may involve field seasons, travel, and adherence to preservation standards.

What is the difference between Archaeologist vs Paleontologist?

AspectArchaeologistPaleontologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Archaeology, Anthropology, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Paleontology, Geology, or related field
Work EnvironmentExcavation sites, museums, research labsFossil sites, research labs, museums
Industry UsageHistory, cultural heritage, museumsNatural history, fossil research, museums
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for fieldwork and research focusOften compared for fossil discovery and study

Both Archaeologists and Paleontologists work in research environments and require similar academic backgrounds. However, Archaeologists focus on human history and artifacts, while Paleontologists study fossils of ancient plants and animals. Their work settings often overlap, especially in museums and research labs, but their specific expertise and research focus differ significantly.

What does an archaeologist do?

An archaeologist studies human history and prehistory by excavating sites and analyzing artifacts, structures, and other physical remains. Their work helps uncover information about past cultures, lifestyles, and significant events. Archaeologists conduct fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and often collaborate with other scientists to interpret findings and publish research. They may also work in museums, universities, or cultural resource management to preserve and share historical knowledge.
More about Archaeologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Archaeologist jobs? Cities with the most Archaeologist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Archaeologist jobs? The most popular types of Archaeologist jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Archaeologist jobs? The top employers for Archaeologist jobs are:
What states have the most Archaeologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Archaeologist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Archaeologist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Archaeologist jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Archaeologist jobs? For Archaeologist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Archaeologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Archaeologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. 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.
Archaeologist

Archaeologist

VHB

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Overview
ABOUT THE POSITION
Archaeologist | Atlanta, GA
VHB's Atlanta, GA office is seeking an Archaeologist to work with our Environmental Services Group. Key responsibilities of the position include conducting and supervising archaeological surveys, preparing and reviewing archaeological resource assessment reports, and evaluating archaeological resources for energy, transportation, planning, housing, and land development projects. This opportunity will require relocation to the Atlanta area with relocation assistance provided for the successful candidate. Well-qualified candidates will possess a fundamental understanding of the Section 106 process, assessing archaeological site significance under Criterion D, and have a good understanding of the precontact and historic cultures of the Southeast and Tidewater Regions.
We are looking for sharp, creative problem solvers who are passionate about archaeological and historical properties. By working closely with our engineers, designers, planners, and clients, VHB strives to preserve and protect our shared cultural heritage across more than 30 offices along the East Coast.
Responsibilities
  • Conduct Phase I, II, III archaeological investigations and archaeological site monitoring
  • Prepare technical reports which assess archaeological site integrity, significance, and National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) eligibility
  • Prepare geographic maps using ArcGIS Pro and ESRI software
  • Conduct archival and historical background research
  • Supervise technical and field survey personnel and mentor junior staff
  • Assist with mapping responsibilities in the field, including collection of GPS data using Trimble units/Collector
  • Conduct artifact analysis and assist in curation efforts
  • Coordinate regulatory compliance efforts with federal, state, and private entities
  • Support and build clientele relationships
  • Integrate with federal and state agency staff to provide support and technical assistance as needed

Skills and Attributes
  • Self-motivated with attention to detail and the ability to think critically
  • Must be able to work independently and as a part of project teams
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Working knowledge of Section 106 of the NRHP
  • Familiarity with NEPA, ARPA, NAGPRA, and other state environmental compliance laws
  • Ability to use hardware, software, and data collection technologies

Qualifications
  • A Master's Degree in anthropology, archaeology, or a closely related field required
  • Must meet the Secretary of the Interior (SOI) professional standards for archaeology
  • A member of the Register of Professional Archaeologists (RPA), or has the credentials necessary for enrollment
  • 5+ years of professional experience in cultural resource management required; 3+ years at the Project Archaeologist level or above preferred
  • The ability to travel to a location, walk/hike and conduct fieldwork for long hours, in inclement weather or rugged terrain
  • Ability to carry equipment and supplies weighing up to 40 pounds
  • Valid driver's license
  • Applicants must be legally authorized to work for VHB in the U.S. without employer sponsorship

Building what's next, together.
Our people make the difference. We foster a technology-empowered, people-driven, future-ready culture where agility, innovation, and collaboration shape how we work every day.
When you join VHB, you'll find:
  • Meaningful work on complex projects with real community impact
  • A collaborative, inclusive culture that values curiosity and shared success
  • Support to grow your skills and lead through change
  • Learning and development supported by evolving tools and technologies, including AI
  • Best-in-class benefits and a flexible, hybrid work environment

We're growing across the East Coast and are consistently recognized as a great place to work. Ready to shape what's next? Learn more about what sets our employee experience apart and connect with us.
VHB is a proud Equal Opportunity Employer. Since our founding, we have intentionally fostered a culture of inclusion and belonging, supported by deep-rooted core values, one of which is diversity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.
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