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Archaeologist Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Principal Investigator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$80K - $119K/yr

Archaeological experience in the southeastern US is preferred. The position will oversee project coordination, and quality control/quality assurance for cultural resource management projects.

Whether you're an archaeologist, engineer, business student, or thespian, people from a range of backgrounds are successful at McMaster-Carr. We're interested in your ability to think and find ...

Warehouse Operative

Norcross, GA · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Commonly packed items: - Fine furniture - Antiques - Historical/ Archeological Artifacts - Artwork - Other high-end items * Case Making - Use the measurement knowledge to create wood cases for ...

Customer Solutions

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$103K - $118K/yr

Whether you're an archaeologist, engineer, business student, or thespian, people from a range of backgrounds are successful at McMaster-Carr. We're interested in your ability to think and find ...

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Archaeologist information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$30.8K

$59.3K

$94.7K

How much do archaeologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for archaeologist in Decatur, GA is $59,273.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $67,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can you do with archaeology?

Archaeologists can work in fields such as cultural resource management, museum curation, academic research, and heritage preservation. They often conduct excavations, analyze artifacts, and prepare reports, requiring skills in fieldwork, analysis, and sometimes specialized tools like GIS software. Opportunities exist in government agencies, universities, private consulting firms, and non-profit organizations.

Is it hard to find a job as an archeologist?

Finding a job as an archaeologist can be competitive, especially in popular regions or institutions, and often requires relevant field experience, a degree in archaeology or a related field, and sometimes specialized certifications. Opportunities are typically available in academia, government agencies, museums, and private consulting firms, but job availability can vary based on funding and project needs.

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 Do Archaeologists 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.

Do archeologists make good money?

Archaeologists' salaries vary depending on experience, location, and employer, with median annual wages around $63,000 in the United States. Professionals working for government agencies, universities, or private firms with specialized skills and fieldwork experience tend to earn higher salaries. Entry-level positions often pay less, while senior roles or those with advanced certifications can command higher compensation.

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 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. Employment may involve field seasons, travel, and adherence to preservation standards.

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.

What does an archaeologist do?

An archaeologist studies human history and prehistory by excavating sites and analyzing artifacts, structures, and other physical remains. Their work helps uncover information about past cultures, lifestyles, and significant events. Archaeologists conduct fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and often collaborate with other scientists to interpret findings and publish research. They may also work in museums, universities, or cultural resource management to preserve and share historical knowledge.
What are the most commonly searched types of Archaeologist jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Archaeologist jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What job categories do people searching Archaeologist jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Archaeologist jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Archaeologist jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Archaeologist job openings:
Infographic showing various Archaeologist job openings in Decatur, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,273 per year, or $28.5 per hour.
Environmental Specialist/Analyst

Environmental Specialist/Analyst

Southern Company

Atlanta, GA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Southern Company rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

JOB SUMMARY:  

This position is responsible for providing consultation, permitting, coordination and support to all of Georgia Power's business units where construction, operations and maintenance activities may affect cultural resources, including archaeological and historic features, that may be on or near Georgia Power's property, easements, and existing or planned activities. 

This position will investigate resources and needs, develop company strategy, negotiate solutions, draft and implement agreements, and facilitate compliance with laws, regulations and associated cultural resource management plans. Specific responsibilities will include due diligence investigations, project planning, conducting archival research, determining the need for cultural resource surveys, overseeing archaeological and historic investigations to support project feasibility studies, assessing permitting requirements associated with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Appendix C, National Historic Preservation Act Section 106, Georgia Cemetery Law, State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) guidelines, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) hydro relicensing, Title 22 of the Official Code of Georgia and other applicable regulations. 

The analyst/specialist will determine compliant and cost-effective avoidance and/or permitting and mitigation strategies with respect to cultural resources for Georgia Power projects. Responsibilities may also include directing and coordinating consultation with state and federal agency personnel, federally recognized tribes or tribal organizations, developing solutions and negotiating with stakeholders. Responsibilities will also include reviewing and selecting appropriate cultural resource consultants for desktop and field investigations, report preparation/review and ensuring quality work products are provided to Georgia Power, as well as reviewing and approving consultant bid packages and invoices for contracted work. Coordination of this program involves extensive teamwork and communication with internal customers, regulatory agencies, cultural resources consultants, and external stakeholders.

Job Location:  

  • Georgia Power Headquarters; 241 Ralph McGill Boulevard, Atlanta, GA 30308; 

JOB REQUIREMENTS: (Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skills)

Georgia Power's policy is 4-days in office, in the field, or at a customer location with 1-day work-from-home. In general, in-office/field days are Monday-Thursday. This position supports all Georgia Power's business units; thus, office and WFH days may vary to meet business needs.

Education Requirements

  • Advanced degree in history, archeology, anthropology, or closely related discipline
  • Certifications and specialized training is a plus

Experience Requirements

  • Five or more years of experience leading cultural resources surveys and investigation, preferably including both archaeological and historical resources
  • Experience coordinating with governing agencies such as SHPO, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, FERC, and Georgia Department of Natural Resources on cultural resources surveys, avoidance and mitigation strategies.
  • Experience with governing regulations, including USACE Appendix C, National Historic Preservation Act and Georgia Cemetery Law among others
  • Cultural resource evaluations and USACE Appendix C/NHPA Section 106 permitting and compliance on linear projects (road and/or utility) and stand-alone construction activities
  • Experience utilizing Georgia's Natural, Archaeological, and Historic Resources GIS (GNAHRGIS) and other online resources for archaeological and historic information.
  • Experience with Historic Preservation Division Archaeological Assessment Report Guidelines and Components (2001) and the Georgia Council of Professional Archaeologists' Georgia Standards and Guidelines for Archaeological Investigations (2019)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Ability to synthesize technical information and communicate in a manner suitable for technical and non-technical audiences
  • Working knowledge of applicable state and federal regulations and professional guidelines with respect to archaeological and historic resources
  • Excellent oral and written (business and technical) communication skills
  • Judgement skills necessary to make decisions, solve problems and implement solutions
  • Strong organizing, planning and scheduling skills with the ability to manage and track numerous projects
  • Maintain the National Park Service's Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards for archaeology
  • Proficient with GIS software
  • Ability to serve as an expert witness up to and including provision of testimony at hearings 
  • Ability to drive vehicles on and off-road; occasional overnight travel is required
  • Ability to work independently and on teams, without direct supervision, outside normal business hours and outdoors in a variety of weather and field conditions

Behavioral Requirements

  • Must demonstrate behaviors consistent with Southern Company values, Safety First, Unquestionable Trust, Superior Performance and Total Commitment
  • Self-directed with strong initiative and proactive, solution-oriented approach
  • Effective interpersonal and relationship building skills that facilitate teamwork across business units
  • Works as a team player and takes personal responsibility for successes and failures

This position has been identified as a role that will require the use of a Georgia Power fleet vehicle.  The following will be required if you are selected for this position: 

  • Must have at least one year of verifiable driving experience (Must hold a valid driver's license for the class vehicle to be operated. Driving permits are not typically considered a valid driver's license). 

  • Must have no revocation of driving privileges within the 36 months prior to application, no convictions of major traffic violations (DUI, hit and run, reckless driving, etc.) within the 12 months prior to application, or any pending charges for a major traffic violation at the time of application. 

  • Must consent to a continuous monitoring of your Motor Vehicle Record 

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America's premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the Company's promise to 2.6 million customers in all but four of Georgia's 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable, and affordable energy at rates below the national average, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the Company is recognized by J.D. Power and Associates as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeogiaPower.com and connect with the Company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), Twitter (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy solutions provider with national capabilities, a fiber optics network and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience and sustainability, we are taking action to meet customers' and communities' needs while advancing our goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and are the key to our sustained success. We are transforming energy into economic, environmental and social progress for tomorrow. Our corporate culture has been recognized by a variety of organizations, earning the company awards and recognitions that reflect Our Values and dedication to service. To learn more, visit www.southerncompany.com. 

Southern Company invests in the well-being of its employees and their families through a comprehensive total rewards strategy that includes competitive base salary, annual incentive awards for eligible employees and health, welfare and retirement benefits designed to support physical, financial, and emotional/social well-being. This position may also be eligible for additional compensation, such as an incentive program, with the amount of any bonus/awards subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable incentive plan(s). A summary of the benefits offered for this position can be found here https://seo.nlx.org/southernco/pdf/SOCO-Benefits.pdf. Additional and specific details about total compensation and benets will also be provided during the hiring process.


Southern Company is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.

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