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Archaeologist Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Project Archaeologist

Nashville, TN · On-site

Project Archeologist / Principal Investigator to work in our Nashville, TN office under the direction of the Senior Archaeologist. This is a full-time position with benefits. Cultural Resources is ...

HNTB

Architectural History Team Lead

Nashville, TN · On-site

Directs archaeological and environmental compliance investigations and is responsible for the planning, implementation, and reporting of scientific discipline projects. * Provides technical ...

Stantec

Archaeology Field Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Stantec is seeking Archaeological Field Technicians to assist with upcoming fieldwork that will occur throughout the Southeast. These positions are per project based that may be up to 10-day stints.

Stantec

Archaeology Field Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

Stantec is seeking Archaeological Field Technicians to assist with upcoming fieldwork that will occur throughout the Southeast. These positions are per project based that may be up to 10-day stints.

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See Tennessee salary details

$28.6K

$55.1K

$88K

How much do archaeologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for archaeologist in Tennessee is $55,101.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,700.00 and $63,100.00 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 Tennessee?

The most popular types of Archaeologist jobs in Tennessee are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Archaeologist jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Archaeologist job openings:

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Archaeologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Archaeologist job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,101 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Staff Archaeologist I

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Cultural Resource Analysts, Inc.
Environmental Consulting Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Cultural Resource Analysts, Inc.external

$50K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Description
Cultural Resource Analysts, Inc. (CRA) is seeking qualified candidates to join our Tennessee office, and we are currently accepting applications for a Field Supervisor-Staff Archaeologist position with a focus on historic-period sites. Preference will be given to candidates that hold degrees with an emphasis in historical archaeology. Our Tennessee office is located in downtown Knoxville and was established in 2010 to support clients throughout the southeast. Field Supervisor-Staff Archaeologist positions are full-time, salaried positions.
Join us, as we celebrate our 41st year in business! For over four decades, CRA has been recognized as one of the most respected, full-service cultural resource consulting firms in the United States. This success is directly attributed to CRA's retention of an experienced, highly-skilled, multi-disciplinary team of cultural resource management professionals. With an understanding that it is the expertise and dedication of our team that forms the foundation of our reputation for high-quality work, CRA invests in its people and their professional development, and fosters a collaborative environment that emphasizes teamwork. The archaeologists, architectural historians, and historic preservation professionals that CRA employs, many of whom are leaders in their fields, are the core of our success. For more in-depth information about CRA and the exciting projects and opportunities we have, please visit our website at www.crai-ky.com. Join our team and grow with us!
  • Employment Type: Salaried, Full-Time. Salary will be based upon experience.
  • Benefits:
    • Medical, Vision, Dental, Life (99% of employee medical coverage paid by employer).
    • Flexible Spending Plan offered
    • 401(k) (up to 5% employer matched)
    • Life insurance (100% paid by employer)
    • Supplemental insurance policies offered (short-term disability, cancer, hospitalization)
    • Paid holidays (10 days per year)
    • Paid Time Off (80 hours for Year 1, 120 hours for Year 2, and 160 hours for Year 3), and employees that have been with the company 10 years or more get 5 weeks (200 hours) of PTO
    • Paid Family Leave. New mothers and fathers both get one-week paid leave. New mothers get a "short term disability" benefit that is paid by the company. This is generally 6-8 weeks or as prescribed by their doctor.
    • Professional development stipend ($1,000 per year)
    • Registered Professional Archaeologist (RPA) annual renewal payment for Affiliated status

Job Description and Responsibilities:
  • The Staff Archaeologist position is under the direction of a Principal Investigator, and will involve participation in the planning and performance of archaeological field projects;
  • Responsibilities will include conducting pre-field research, mobilizing field projects, providing supervision to field technicians, overseeing archaeological field projects, authoring or co-authoring written reports of findings, and completing site forms;
  • Project types may include archaeological monitoring, survey, evaluation, and data recovery projects, including projects that will require stays away from home.

Qualifications:
  • A graduate degree in Anthropology;
  • Qualification under the Secretary of the Interior Standards (48 FR 44716) in archaeology;
  • RPA, or eligible for RPA;
  • It is imperative that the candidate be able to work 8-10-hour days in a variety of conditions. Shovel testing, screening, stooping, bending, lifting, and walking treacherous terrain are essential functions of this position.
  • Have additional qualifications? Let us know where you excel!

Please indicate when you will be available, and submit a resume with three references to the following link:
CRA job application portal
If you have questions, please contact Travis Hurdle at twhurdle@crai-ky.com.
Cultural Resource Analysts, Inc. employees are required to undergo a background check that includes driving history. CRA reserves the right to perform drug/alcohol testing as a condition of continued employment. Cultural Resource Analysts, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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