1

Archaeologist Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Historian (Temporary)

Sitka, AK · On-site +1

$57K - $74K/yr

Participate more substantively in archaeological field studies, geological mapping, consult with Native organizations, and broader historical reporting. * Write letters and responses to inquiries ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-28

Archaeologist information

See Alaska salary details

$33.9K

$65.4K

$104.5K

How much do archaeologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 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 employer, with median annual wages around $63,000. Professionals working for government agencies or in academia may earn less than those in private consulting or research roles, and advanced degrees or specialized skills can increase earning potential.

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-funded organizations. Candidates typically need a relevant degree, fieldwork experience, and sometimes specialized certifications, which can influence job availability and ease of entry.

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.

What kind of work does an archaeologist do?

An archaeologist studies human history and prehistory through the excavation and analysis of artifacts, structures, and sites. They conduct fieldwork, often using tools like trowels and brushes, and analyze findings in laboratories to understand past cultures and societies.

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

The most popular types of Archaeologist jobs in Alaska 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 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,381 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Historian (Temporary)

National Park Service

Sitka, AK • On-site, Remote

$57K - $74K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


National Park Service rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 98 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 297 rated public sector bodies


Job description

Summary
You will serve as a Historian (Temporary) Sitka National Historical Park.
This is an excepted service appointment, that remains in the excepted service indefinitely. These positions do not confer competitive status.
This is a temporary position expected to last one year but may be extended up to a maximum of two years based on agency needs and potential funding.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
These positions provide Historian support to the park by researching, writing, and educating about historical resources of the park. The position will work under the Park's Interpretation program, but also in collaboration with Cultural Resources.
Some of the major duties you will perform include but are not limited to the following:
  • Expand knowledge through independent study, developmental assignments, literature review, on-site studies, and fieldwork.
  • Participate more substantively in archaeological field studies, geological mapping, consult with Native organizations, and broader historical reporting.
  • Write letters and responses to inquiries using developed knowledge of park resources, policy, prior research, and available sources.
  • Provide full historical education and visitor interaction, delivering content independently.
  • Collect, analyze, and report on cultural resource conditions, including measuring impacts of management actions (restoration, visitor dispersal, development).
  • Draft more complex report sections, work plans, and implementation strategies, and complete small historian actions independently.
  • Investigate undocumented cultural/historic sites to a level enabling identification, protection, or interpretation.
  • Assist in coordinating visiting professional work with increased responsibility and less supervision.
  • Apply standard historian practices with judgment, selecting methods, approaches, and sources.
  • Exercise greater judgment when guidelines require interpretation or selection among alternatives.

Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
  • Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication.
  • Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • Direct Deposit participation required.
  • Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more, visit www.dhs.gov/EVerify/.

  • Must have and maintain a valid driver's license throughout employment.
  • .You are required to wear a uniform and comply with the uniform standards. A uniform allowance will be provided.
  • You must be at least (1)18 years old or (2) at least 16 years old and: (a) Have graduated from high school or been awarded a certificate equivalent to graduating from high school; or (b) Have completed a formal vocational training program; or (c) Have received a statement from school authorities agreeing with their preference for employment rather than continuing their education; or (d) Be currently enrolled in a secondary school and either work only during school vacation periods or work part-time during the school year under a formal student employment program.
  • You must be at least 18 years of age or older to operate government vehicles.

Qualifications
All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement 09/09/2026 unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
Special knowledge or expertise concerning the park's or preserve's natural and/or cultural resources and the management thereof is required. Local knowledge of the resources and the typical conditions that affect the work to be accomplished will be applied in the performance of duties.
-AND-
To be eligible your application package must clearly show periods of time having lived or worked in or near the area of consideration. The area of consideration can be found in the below paragraph:
Areas considered "near" Sitka National Historical Park are Baranof Island, which includes the community of Sitka, and the adjacent Admiralty Island including Angoon, the adjacent Chichagof Island including Hoonah, and the nearby City and Borough of Juneau.
-ALSO-
The following are the competencies identified for this position. Applicants are not required to address these competencies in a separate document but are encouraged to include in their resumes experience related to these competencies:
  1. Ability to locate pertinent source material.
  2. Skill in use of non-bibliographic research tools such as photographs, statistics, maps, remote sensing, oral history, field mapping, and measured drawing.
  3. Ability to communicate both verbally and in writing in order to explain procedures, regulations and findings, historical content, and to draft letters, memoranda, sections of reports, etc.

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
There is no substitution of education for the required special knowledge or expertise concerning the park's or preserve's natural and/or cultural resources and the management thereof as outlined in this announcement.
Additional information
Additional vacancies may be filled using this job announcement.
A selectee receiving a first appointment to the Federal Government (Civil Service) is entitled only to the lowest step of the grade for which selected. The display of a salary range on this vacancy shall not be construed as granting an entitlement to a higher rate of pay.
All Department of Interior (DOI) employees, their spouses, and minor children may not acquire or retain any claim, permit, lease, small tract entry, or other rights granted by the Department in Federal lands, with limited exceptions. Additional ethics prohibitions can be found here, https://www.doi.gov/ethics/ethics-prohibitions.
The duties of this position are suitable for telework only during an emergency or natural disaster.
Physical Demands: The work is at times sedentary, documentary research and report writing work is sedentary and entails the ability to concentrate and writhe for long periods of time. The work is also at times not sedentary, which will include standing and walking and interfacing with visitors to discuss historical topics.
Work Environment: Work is performed in offices, archives, libraries the park visitor center, and historical buildings.
Alaska currently does not have a state income tax.
Government housing may be available.
All travel, transportation, and relocation expenses associated with reporting for duty in this position will be the sole responsibility of the selectee.
Expand Hide additional information
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
Help
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

What National Park Service employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom