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Archaeologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ECORP CONSULTING

Associate Archaeologist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

ECORP Consulting, Inc. is seeking a full-time Associate Archaeologist to join our cultural resources team. The position offers the opportunity to work on a variety of projects. The ideal candidate is ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

San Diego, CA · On-site

Stantec seeks on-call archaeologists to support our growing portfolio of fieldwork. We have offices throughout southern California, including Pasadena, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Monrovia, San ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

Pasadena, CA · On-site

Stantec seeks on-call archaeologists to support our growing portfolio of fieldwork. We have offices throughout southern California, including Pasadena, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Monrovia, San ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

Stantec seeks on-call archaeologists to support our growing portfolio of fieldwork. We have offices throughout southern California, including Pasadena, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Monrovia, San ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

Fresno, CA · On-site

Stantec seeks on-call archaeologists to support our growing portfolio of fieldwork. We have offices throughout southern California, including Pasadena, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Monrovia, San ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

Ventura, CA · On-site

Stantec seeks on-call archaeologists to support our growing portfolio of fieldwork. We have offices throughout southern California, including Pasadena, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Monrovia, San ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

Stantec seeks on-call archaeologists to support our growing portfolio of fieldwork. We have offices throughout southern California, including Pasadena, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Monrovia, San ...

langan

Archaeologist

San Francisco, CA

Job Summary Langan is seeking an Archaeologist to join its collaborative team in California on an on-call basis. This individual will serve a key function in providing services related to the roles ...

langan

Archaeologist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Job Summary Langan is seeking an Archaeologist to join its collaborative team in California on an on-call basis. This individual will serve a key function in providing services related to the roles ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

Stantec seeks on-call archaeologists to support our growing portfolio of fieldwork. We have offices throughout southern California, including Pasadena, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Monrovia, San ...

Jacobs Solutions

On-Call SOI Archaeologist

Irvine, CA · On-site

On-Call Archaeologist Jacobs is looking for a Secretary of the Interior (SOI) qualified on-call archaeologist to work on a variety of projects throughout southern California. This position involves ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

Irvine, CA · On-site

Stantec seeks on-call archaeologists to support our growing portfolio of fieldwork. We have offices throughout southern California, including Pasadena, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Monrovia, San ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Stantec seeks on-call archaeologists to support our growing portfolio of fieldwork. We have offices throughout southern California, including Pasadena, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Monrovia, San ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

Bishop, CA · On-site

Stantec seeks on-call archaeologists to support our growing portfolio of fieldwork. We have offices throughout southern California, including Pasadena, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Monrovia, San ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

Monrovia, CA · On-site

Stantec seeks on-call archaeologists to support our growing portfolio of fieldwork. We have offices throughout southern California, including Pasadena, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Monrovia, San ...

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Archaeologist information

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$31.1K

$59.9K

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How much do archaeologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for archaeologist in California is $59,915.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,400.00 and $68,600.00 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.
More about Archaeologist jobs

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

The most popular types of Archaeologist jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Archaeologist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Archaeologist job openings:

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

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

Archaeologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Archaeologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,915 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Archaeologist

Banning, CA • On-site

Morongo Band of Mission Indians

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

755th of 851 rated public administrative organizations

Learn more about Morongo Band of Mission Indiansexternal

$80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description
Perform varied tasks and achieve objectives at the direction of and in support of Morongo Band of Mission Indians Tribal Historic Preservation Officer:(1) conduct field investigations of historic and prehistoric archaeological sites, (2) manage coordination of projects, (3) oversee artifact collection and curation of artifacts, (4),identify, record, categorize, interpret, analyze, and facilitate formal testing of archaeological materials, sites, features, and artifacts, and sample materials(5) engage in research, develop draft reports, and share results of work with appropriate MBMI entities.
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or closely related field. Master's degree strongly preferred
  • At least two (2) years of experience in archaeology at increasing levels of responsibility, including archaeological survey, formal data recovery, site evaluation testing, construction monitoring, and technical report preparation and writing
  • Substantive knowledge of the archaeology of southern California
  • Register of Professional Archaeologists (RPA) certification preferred
  • Demonstrated experienced in the inventory and eligibility evaluation of prehistoric and historic archaeological resources
  • Demonstrated writing and research abilities
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Demonstrated experience preparing, reviewing, and editing complex technical documents for a full range of various cultural resources projects.
  • Knowledge of State of California CHRIS system and how to use it
  • Knowledge of GPS data collection equipment (Trimble, Arrow, SX Blue, Bad Elf, Arc Collector, Terrasync, ArcMap)
  • Knowledge of the NHPA Section 106 process
  • Knowledge of other federal and state laws (CEQA) and regulations governing cultural resources management
  • Ability to travel; availability of mode of travel
  • Demonstrated ability to perform and lead survey, testing, construction monitoring and mitigation projects.

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