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Archaeologist Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Archaeological field technicians are responsible for conducting pedestrian survey and data recovery efforts. Tasks will include pedestrian survey, shovel testing, excavation, and documentation. This ...

HDR's Alaska office is seeking motivated archaeological crew chiefs for the 2026 field season in Alaska (May-October). The position may require pedestrian survey and/or archaeological monitoring ...

Archaeological field technicians are responsible for conducting pedestrian survey and data recovery efforts. Tasks will include pedestrian survey, shovel testing, excavation, and documentation. This ...

Provide input for repatriation processes and assist in the protection and creation of long-term management plans for sacred and archaeological sites of the ancestral Unangax^. * Work with the ...

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Archaeologist information

See Alaska salary details

$33.9K

$65.4K

$104.5K

How much do archaeologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for archaeologist in Alaska is $65,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,600.00 and $74,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an archaeologist 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.

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 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 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.

Do archaeologists make good money?

Archaeologists' salaries vary depending on experience, location, and sector, with median annual wages around $63,000. Professionals working in academia or research tend to earn less than those in government or private consulting, and advanced skills or certifications can lead to higher pay.

Is it hard to get a job as an archaeologist?

Getting a job as an archaeologist can be competitive, especially for positions in popular locations or with well-known organizations. Candidates typically need a relevant degree, fieldwork experience, and sometimes specialized certifications, which can influence job prospects.

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. Job opportunities may involve field seasons, travel, and specialized certifications depending on the employer and project scope.

What are the most commonly searched types of Archaeologist jobs in Alaska?

The most popular types of Archaeologist jobs in Alaska are:

What are popular job titles related to Archaeologist jobs in Alaska?

For Archaeologist jobs in Alaska, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Archaeologist jobs in Alaska look for?

The top searched job categories for Archaeologist jobs in Alaska are:

What cities in Alaska are hiring for Archaeologist jobs?

Cities in Alaska with the most Archaeologist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Archaeologist jobs in AK?

For Archaeologist jobs in AK, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Archaeologist job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,381 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Integrated Resources Division Manager (Interdisciplinary)

Contact Us - National Parks of New York Harbor (U.S. National Park Service)

Skagway, AK โ€ข On-site

$101K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

This GS-12 position is located at Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, in Skagway, Alaska, working in the Resources Division.
This is an interdisciplinary position and you can be found eligible using any of the series mentioned in the "qualifications" section.Qualifications:All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement - 08/21/2026-unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement. Competitive candidates must also meet Time-in-Grade requirements as defined in 5 CFR 300, Subpart F.
For current Federal employees, if hours worked per week are not included on your resume, you must submit a non-award SF-50 as part of your application to be used to validate your work schedule and determine the amount of specialized experience that you will be granted. An award SF-50 will not be acceptable documentation for which to consider your amount of qualifying experience. For periods of time that reflect military service, the DD-214 or Statement of Service is sufficient to meet the work schedule requirement as the service dates will be reflected. For all other applicants who are not current federal employees, your resume must state either "full-time" (or "40 hours a week") or "part-time" with the number of hours worked per week to ensure proper crediting of specialized experience.

-AND-

Minimum Qualification Requirements: To qualify for this position, you must meet the following minimum qualifications:
Basic Educational Requirement for the series to which you are applying:
Historian, series GS-0170:

A. A bachelor's or higher degree in history; or a related field that included at least 18 semester hours in history. You MUST include a copy of your transcripts.

B. Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in history, or a major in a related field that included at least 18 semester hours in history, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education. You MUST include a copy of your transcripts.

Archeologist, series GS-0193.

A. 4-year degree in Archeology that included 3 semester hours each in the following course areas: history of archeology; archeology of a major geographical area such as North America or Africa; regional archeology; archeological cultures, or sites in a specific part or portion of a major geographical area to acquire or develop a foundation for regional specialization for professional development; theory and methods of archeology which include, but are not limited to, typology, classification, sampling, cultural evolution, diffusion, dating, and analytical techniques; archeological field school, to provide a basic understanding of theoretical and practical approaches to research design implementation, field preservation techniques, and report preparation by participation in actual field work; AND six semester hours of related course work in: geography, geology, or cultural geography; history, historiography, or historical archeology; environmental studies; scientific writing (nonfiction English composition); and/or surveying; AND archeological field school.

B. Combination of college-level education, experience or training that provided knowledge equivalent to that described above, plus appropriate technical experience or additional education. Creditable experience in this field is considered to be four years of archeological work experience that demonstrated a thorough knowledge of the fundamental principles and theories of professional archeology. The work experience must have included archeology field experience, which may include that gained in an archeological field school. Field experience should have included a combination of professional experience in archeological survey, excavation, laboratory analysis, and preparation of written materials. Applicants with such field experience should, after additional experience under the direction of a higher-grade archeologist, be able to demonstrate the ability to be a crew chief, directing the work of others at a single location as a part of a larger archeological project.

Biologist, series GS-0401.

A. Bachelor's or higher degree that included a major field of study in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position.

B. Combination of education and experience that included course work equivalent to a major (i.e., 24 semester hours) in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or a discipline closely related to biology; PLUS, appropriate experience or additional course work. The quality of the combination must demonstrate that you possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the work of the position and is comparable to that normally acquired through the completion of a full four-year course of study with a major as described above.
Also:

Specialized Experience: In addition to meeting at least one of the basic requirements listed above, you must possess at least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level in the Federal service (obtained in either the public or private sectors) to qualify. Specialized experience is defined as demonstrated experience: providing cultural resource program support and professional advice in at least one of the occupations listed above; participated as a professional member of a research team; provided technical assistance and serve as a subject matter expert in the conduct of research studies; planned or participated in the planning of cultural resource projects or studies; researched, developed, and prepared manuscripts for professional publications.. You must include hours per week worked.
Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Education:This position has a mandatory education requirement depending on which series you choose to be condiered eligible under.
You must submit a copy of your transcript(s) to support claimed education if substituting education for experience. Transcripts must include your name, school name, grades, credit hours earned, major(s), grade point average or class ranking, and date the degree was conferred, if applicable. A typed list of courses, grades, semester/quarter hours, GPA, etc. will not be accepted. Non-submission may result in being rated not qualified for the position. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable, but if you are selected for this position and you used your education to qualify, you must provide official transcripts before you begin work.
Foreign Education: To receive credit for education completed outside the United States, you must show proof that the education has been submitted to a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign educational credentials and such education has been deemed at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education programs. For more information on how foreign education is evaluated, visit: https://www.ed.gov/about/initiatives/international-affairs/recognition-of-foreign-qualificationsEmployment Type: OTHER