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Archaeologist Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Join AZAD Technology Partners as an Archaeologist and function as a Cultural Resource Specialist, providing professional support and assistance to the Historic Preservation organization at the ...

The On-Call Archaeologist will assist senior archaeologists primarily in fieldwork, with tasks including survey, testing, evaluation, data recovery, and construction monitoring. However, other duties ...

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Archaeologist information

See Oregon salary details

$33.3K

$64.2K

$102.6K

How much do archaeologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for archaeologist in Oregon is $64,188.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,700.00 and $73,500.00 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 Oregon?

The most popular types of Archaeologist jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Archaeologist jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Archaeologist job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Archaeologist job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,188 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

Staff Archaeologist/ Cultural Resources Specialist

Portland, OR • On-site


Arcadis
Engineering Professional Services • 10K+ employees

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 450 rated engineering

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Arcadis is the world's leading company delivering sustainable design, engineering, and consultancy solutions for natural and built assets.
We are more than 34,000 people, in over 30 countries, dedicated to improving quality of life. Everyone has an important role to play. With the power of many curious minds, together we can solve the world's most complex challenges and deliver more impact together.
Arcadis is seeking a mid-level Staff Archaeologist/Cultural Resources Specialist within our cultural resources practice in the Pacific Northwest US. As part of this role, you will conduct archaeological field work for multiple projects and at all levels of investigation, from site identification to data recovery, and archaeological monitoring. You will work on projects that require shovel testing, pedestrian surveys, and site documentation. In this role, you will also be responsible for preparing technical reports and documents. The position requires someone with knowledge and experience working in Oregon and Washington at a federal and state level.
This position will require a candidate to work collaboratively with the Arcadis cultural resources team and the overall environmental permitting team. Arcadis offers a flexible working environment and follows a hybrid work structure. However, this position will be both a field and office position, so the successful candidate can expect to work remotely and, in the office, as needed. The ability to travel to various project sites, including overnight travel, will be required (field work expectations are approximately 50 to 60%).
This position sits within our Resilience Global Business Area. You will soon discover you can make a difference in our company by collaborating with staff and contributing to an interesting array of projects. You will be a key member to drive innovation and build strong technical communities within the Enviro Socio Permitting practice. This is a great opportunity to work with a dynamic team and gain experience in a wide variety of environmental projects for diverse market sectors. Your career growth will only be limited by your skills and your passion for success! You will also work with existing staff to support the growth of Cultural Resources Services.
Role accountabilities:
The more technical aspects of your role will be serving as a project lead in Oregon and Washington. You will be working on multiple projects including all levels of investigation (Classes I-III, archaeological monitoring). Conducting your own
fieldwork, as well as managing archaeological field staff and archaeological field crews (including subcontractors) will be required. You will need to conduct or lead field assessments related to archaeological projects. This will require a working knowledge of GPS systems and the ability to walk and conduct fieldwork for long hours, as well as carry supplies weighing up to 40 pounds. This role will require the ability to travel up to 50%. Additionally, you will use your excellent technical writing and communications skills to author technical documents and provide survey details and results to project teams.
Qualifications & Experience:
First and foremost, do you share our passion for preserving cultural resources? Do you want to be part of a growing cultural resources practice and help with growing that practice in the Pacific Northwest. If you are technically capable with experience in cultural resources management, come join us! Specific qualifications for the role include:
  • Meets the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards in archaeology
  • Master's degree in archaeology or a related field
  • Minimum 4 years of experience in cultural resources management, with a combination of field- and office-based experience and roles
  • Demonstrated experience supervising archaeological field crews and running field projects
  • Demonstrated practical field experience in the U.S. specifically Oregon and Washington
  • Working knowledge of GPS systems and the collection of field data
  • Previous experience in cultural resources planning to support the construction, reconstruction or maintenance of electric and/or gas transmission facilities, or other similar type of linear infrastructures (i.e., water, sewer, oil and gas, etc.)
  • Experience working with federal land management agencies (Bureau of Land Management, US Forest Service, National Park Service etc.), and state agencies
  • Basic knowledge of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and relevant Oregon and Washington state laws
  • Preferred: Knowledge of Federal Energy Regulatory Commission procedures and guidelines

Preferred:
  • Qualified Principal Investigator (PI) in Oregon and Washington, or the ability to become a PI in these states

Why Arcadis?
We can only achieve our goals when everyone is empowered to be their best. We believe everyone's contribution matters. It's why we are pioneering a skills-based approach, where you can harness your unique experience and expertise to carve your career path and maximize the impact we can make together.
You'll do meaningful work, and no matter what role, you'll be helping to deliver sustainable solutions for a more prosperous planet. Make your mark, on your career, your colleagues, your clients, your life and the world around you.
Together, we can create a lasting legacy.
Join Arcadis. Create a Legacy.
Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging
We want you to be able to bring your best self to work every day. Our ambition is to be an employer of choice and provide a great place to work for all our people. We are an equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in employment on any basis including race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status, disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law.
Arcadis offers benefits for full time and part time positions. These benefits include medical, dental, and vision, EAP, 401K, STD, LTD, AD&D, life insurance, paid parental leave, reward & recognition program and optional benefits including wellbeing benefits, adoption assistance and tuition reimbursement. We offer nine paid holidays and 15 days PTO that accrue per year. The salary range for this position is$70,800- $106,200.
Actual salaries will vary and are based on several factors, such as experience, education, budget, internal equity, project and location.
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About Arcadis

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our work with clients has a direct impact on people's lives and on the planet. We make moving, living and belonging in cities safer, more resilient and more sustainable. By partnering with our clients as responsible custodians of our earth's resources, we can create a sustainable planet. We continue to think of new ways to make positive impacts and create better experiences for people; data driven and digital solutions have become part of the Arcadis DNA. Working together with clients and using techniques like design thinking, we can get to the heart of our clients' most pressing challenges and work together to solve them.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Highlands Ranch, CO, US


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