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Archaeologist Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Stantec

Archaeology Technician

Laurel, MD · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

The successful applicant will be responsible for executing field related tasks under the supervision of a Project Archaeologist and Crew Chief. This position requires extensive travel with frequent ...

Stantec

Archaeology Technician

Laurel, MD

$44K - $59K/yr

The successful applicant will be responsible for executing field related tasks under the supervision of a Project Archaeologist and Crew Chief. This position requires extensive travel with frequent ...

Stantec

Archaeology Technician

Laurel, MD

$44K - $59K/yr

The successful applicant will be responsible for executing field related tasks under the supervision of a Project Archaeologist and Crew Chief. This position requires extensive travel with frequent ...

Stantec

Archaeology Technician

Laurel, MD · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

The successful applicant will be responsible for executing field related tasks under the supervision of a Project Archaeologist and Crew Chief. This position requires extensive travel with frequent ...

City of Alexandria

Museum Technician PT

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18.67 - $32.85/hr

Archaeologists perform professional work in an integrated, community archaeology program. What You Should Bring The ideal candidate should have good knowledge of and interest in history and ...

Umd

Assistant Professor

College Park, MD · On-site

$90K - $95K/yr

Summary The Department of Art History and Archaeology at the University of Maryland College Park (UMCP) invites applications for an assistant professor of Early Modern European Art History (1300-1800)

Texas A&M University

Research Assistant

Washington, DC

$21.75 - $30/hr

Experience working with archaeological ship structures or disassociated ship timbers. * A thorough understanding of degradation processes involved with artifacts recovered from a submerged ...

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Archaeologist information

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$32.6K

$62.8K

$100.3K

How much do archaeologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for archaeologist in Silver Spring, MD is $62,760.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,600.00 and $71,800.00 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

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What job categories do people searching Archaeologist jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

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What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Archaeologist jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Archaeologist job openings:

Archaeologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Archaeologist job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,760 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Tenure Track Assistant Professor - Public or Community-Based Archaeologist

Public Value

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$70 - $120/hr

Other

Medical, Life

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Department: Col of Humanities and Soc Science

Classification: 9-month Instructional Faculty

Job Category: Instructional Faculty

Job Type: Full-Time

Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)

Location: Fairfax, VA

Workplace Type: On Site Required

Sponsorship Eligibility: Not eligible for visa sponsorship

Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience

Criminal Background Check: Yes

About the Department:

The Department of Sociology and Anthropology (SOAN) is a dynamic, collegiate department of 22 full-time faculty committed to rigorous scholarship, engaged teaching, and public‑fac] research. Faculty research spans a wide range of areas including globalization, inequality, migration, health, social movements, urban life, social change, institutions, technology, and the environment, with regional expertise extending across the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe. SOAN is housed within the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS), one of the largest academic units at George Mason University, an R1 institution. In recognition of the university’s commitment to accessibility, return on investment, and upward mobility, it was recently named to the highest tier of the Carnegie Foundation and the American Council on Education (ACE) list of Opportunity Colleges and Universities.

The Anthropology program features a robust undergraduate program, as well as an MA program with specializations in cultural anthropology and bioarchaeology. The anthropology faculty take a holistic approach to the discipline, with faculty research spanning the subfields of biological anthropology, cultural anthropology, and archaeology. Key areas of emphasis include interrelated questions of human‑environment and human‑disease interactions; social memory and place; death and mortuary practices; religious practices; foodways and subsistence; urbanism and everyday life; social and political transformation; and governance, colonialism, dispossession, and resistance.

About the Position:

The Tenure‑Track Assistant Professor position in public or community‑based archaeology (geographic area open) will begin August 25, 2027. The position holder should have an interest in historic archaeology, the archaeology of colonialism, and/or the archaeology of the recent past.

The Assistant Professor is expected to engage in scholarly activities, contribute to teaching courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels (including introductory‑level and general‑education courses), and to provide service at the departmental level.

Responsibilities
  • Maintains an active research program with a sustained record of publication in peer‑reviewed sources;
  • Teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in archaeology and contributes to curricular and program development in archaeology;
  • Participates in service to the department.
Required Qualifications
  • PhD in Anthropology or Archaeology (PhD must be in hand at the time of application);
  • Experience teaching (or support teaching) in an Anthropology department or a related field;
  • Active engagement in public or community‑based archaeology;
  • Demonstrated record of scholarly achievement;
  • A research program characterized by strong theoretical grounding with a focus in one or more of the following areas:
    • historic archaeology;
    • the archaeology of colonialism, and/or
    • the archaeology of the recent past;
  • Ability to teach an upper‑division undergraduate/graduate course on archaeological theory.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience teaching undergraduate and/or graduate courses in archaeology;
  • Demonstrated record of success at obtaining extramural funding;
  • Methodological approach that complements, but does not duplicate, existing faculty strengths;
  • Ability to develop an archaeological field school that would serve George Mason University’s undergraduate student body.

Equity Statement

George Mason University is an equal‑opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.

Mason’s Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available at http://police.gmu.edu/annual-security-report/

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