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Archaeologist Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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Archaeologist information

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$33.1K

$63.8K

$102K

How much do archaeologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for archaeologist in Colorado is $63,837.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,400.00 and $73,100.00 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 Colorado?

The most popular types of Archaeologist jobs in Colorado are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Archaeologist jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Archaeologist job openings:

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

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

Archaeologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Archaeologist job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,837 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

Archeologist

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service

Minturn, CO • On-site

$61K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Positions may be filled at one or more of the duty locations included in this announcement. Final determination of the duty location will be made at the time of the job offer.
For additional questions about the duties of these positions, refer to the Additional Information Section for names and email addresses for points of contact by Region.
Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.
Basic Requirement: Archeology Series, 0193.

  1. Education

    1. Degree 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. Methods 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.

    2. Related Curriculum: degree in anthropology (with emphasis on ethnology, physical anthropology, or scientific linguistics), history, American studies, or a related discipline may be accepted as satisfying in full the educational requirements, provided the curriculum supplied academic course work sufficiently similar to the requirements in A.1 (including archeological field school).

    OR

  2. Combination of Education and Experience

    College-level education or training that provided knowledge equivalent to that described in A above, plus appropriate technical experience or additional education.

    OR

  3. Experience

    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.


In addition to meeting the basic requirement, you must also possess experience and/or directly related education in the amounts listed below.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GS-09: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-7 grade level. Specialized experience is defined as two or more of the following:
  • Assisting in conducting background studies and document reviews pertaining to archeological project development; and/or
  • Participating in archeological survey and site evaluation work and preparing technical reports; and/or
  • Conducting field reconnaissance in areas scheduled for land-use activities-such as vegetation management, habitat projects, infrastructure development, or recreational improvements to identify potential effects on archeological sites.
or
2 academic years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master's degree or have received a master's or equivalent graduate degree in archeology or directly related coursework.
or
A combination of graduate level education (beyond 18 semester hours) and specialized experience that is directly related to archeology that together meets the qualifications requirements for this position.
For the GS-11: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-9 grade level. Specialized experience is defined as two or more of the following:
  • Performing standard tasks or portions of larger projects of an archeological program, such as conducting performance studies and examining historical research documents pertaining to project development; and/or
  • Assisting professional archeologists in developing and maintaining archeological program components, including scientific reporting, records management, database updates, and monitoring the condition of cultural resource sites; and/or
  • Evaluating problems associated with archeological site protection and implementing corrective measures within the framework of archeological program and legal requirements.
or
3 academic years of progressively higher-level graduate education, leading to a Ph.D. degree or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree directly related to archeology.
or
A combination of graduate education (beyond what is required for a master's degree, i.e., more than 36 semester hours leading to a Ph.D.) and specialized experience that is directly related to archeology that together meets the qualifications requirements for this position.

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:See above for education that may be qualifying for the specific grade level.Employment Type: OTHER

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