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Archaeology Dig Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Planner

Jupiter, FL · On-site

$65K/yr

Implements the historic and archeological preservation regulations of the Town; reviews, processes, and prepares staff reports for certificates to dig, certificates of appropriateness, local historic ...

Planner

Jupiter, FL · On-site

$65K/yr

Implements the historic and archeological preservation regulations of the Town; reviews, processes, and prepares staff reports for certificates to dig, certificates of appropriateness, local historic ...

Masonry Worker

National Park, NJ · On-site +1

$27.13 - $31.61/hr

Work closely with a staff archeologist to capture pertinent information about the structures and ... Dig, rake, and backfill excavations, as well as shovel concrete and mortar and cut brush. * Mix ...

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Archaeology Dig information

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$11

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How much do archaeology dig jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for archaeology dig in the United States is $17.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an archaeology dig?

An archaeology dig, also known as an archaeological excavation, is the process of systematically uncovering historical artifacts, structures, and other physical remains buried underground. Archaeologists use careful techniques to excavate sites, recording information about the context and location of each find. The goal is to learn about past human societies, cultures, and activities by analyzing the material remains they left behind. Digs can take place at ancient settlements, burial sites, or even underwater locations. The findings from these digs help us better understand human history and prehistory.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an archaeology dig team member?

To thrive as an archaeology dig team member, you need a solid background in archaeology or anthropology, often supported by a relevant degree and fieldwork experience. Familiarity with excavation tools, mapping software, and artifact cataloging systems is essential. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, teamwork, and patience help individuals stand out in this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection, preservation of historical sites, and effective collaboration during field excavations.

What are some typical challenges faced during an archaeology dig, and how can team members effectively address them?

Archaeology digs often present challenges such as unpredictable weather, delicate artifact handling, and logistical issues like remote locations or limited resources. Team members can address these by maintaining clear communication, following established excavation protocols, and adapting to changing field conditions. Collaboration is key, as archaeologists often work alongside specialists, volunteers, and local authorities to ensure both the safety of the site and the integrity of findings. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are essential, as unexpected discoveries or setbacks are common in fieldwork.

What is the difference between Archaeology Dig vs Archaeological Technician?

AspectArchaeology DigArchaeological Technician
Required CredentialsField experience, sometimes a degree in archaeology or anthropologyAssociate's or bachelor's degree in archaeology, anthropology, or related field
Work EnvironmentOn-site excavations, outdoor and remote locationsFieldwork and lab work, often on-site or in research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, museums, government agencies, archaeological firmsResearch institutions, government agencies, archaeological consulting firms

Both roles involve archaeological fieldwork, but an Archaeology Dig typically refers to the actual excavation process, often performed by volunteers or students, while an Archaeological Technician usually has formal training and handles more technical tasks during and after excavations. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in archaeology.

Are archaeologists still in demand?

Archaeologists are still in demand in fields such as cultural resource management, academia, and museums, especially as heritage preservation and environmental assessments grow. Employment opportunities often require fieldwork skills, knowledge of excavation tools, and relevant certifications, with job growth expected to be steady in the coming years.

Can you join an archaeology dig?

Yes, individuals can join archaeology digs as volunteers or paid staff, often through academic programs, archaeological organizations, or field schools. Participants typically need basic physical fitness, an interest in archaeology, and sometimes relevant training or certifications, depending on the project's requirements.
More about Archaeology Dig jobs

What states have the most Archaeology Dig jobs?

States with the most job openings for Archaeology Dig jobs include:

Infographic showing various Archaeology Dig job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,665 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Assistant Cultural Resources Technician 2

GAI Consultants Inc.

Homestead, PA • On-site

$33K - $34K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


GAI Consultants rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 453 rated engineering


Job description

Description

GAI has immediate openings for part-time Cultural Resources Technician 2 to support various field projects across the Mid-Atlantic region. These employees will be responsible for identifying, excavating, and recording potential sites, washing and/or processing artifacts for laboratory analysis, and assisting with various laboratory tasks associated with post field activities in accordance with state and federal archaeological standards. Projects may include Phase I through Phase III, historic and/or prehistoric investigations. Pre-employment drug testing is required for the above opportunities.

Job Duties:

  • Follow required health and safety policies as specified by GAI, client, and OSHA.
  • Maintain appropriate level of client confidentiality.
  • Excavate, screen, and collect archaeological materials in accordance with state and/or federal archaeological standards.
  • Identify and record any archaeological features and structures within project study areas.
  • Accurately document and map survey areas, testing locations, excavations, and any observable cultural resources.
  • Accurately complete paper and/or electronic field forms.
  • Record soil color and type using a Munsell soil chart.
  • Use a compass for basic orienteering within the project vicinity.
  • Manually remove brush/vegetation when necessary.
  • Work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Hike, off-trail and over occasionally rugged terrain, while carrying tools and equipment.
  • Perform any and all other duties assigned by supervisor.

Qualifications:

  • B.A. or B.S. degree in Archaeology/Anthropology or a related field (completion of academic field school preferred).
  • Minimum one to three years CRM experience in North America preferred.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Willingness to travel (required) and with independent means of transportation (preferred).
  • Experience in archaeological field excavation techniques, artifact identification, data recording, mapping, and surveying.

Physical Requirements:

  • Use fine motor skills to handle delicate objects, write by hand, feel sharp objects, and reach with hands/arms
  • Possess satisfactory close range vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus
  • Talk, hear, taste or smell
  • Stand, walk, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
  • Lift and/or move objects weighing up to 40lbs
  • Hike over various types of terrain while carrying up to 25lbs of gear
  • Extensively dig/shovel and screen soils for artifact recovery
  • Manually clear brush/vegetation from testing locations
  • Work outdoors in extreme temperatures and weather conditions
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Travel:

  • Projects will vary throughout NE-Mid-Atlantic, Mid-west, and South-west. Overnight stays will be required for the majority of the work being offered. Hotel and Per Diem are provided.

General Characteristics:

  • Continues to show progress acquiring basicskills; follows procedures; good organizational skills; works with safety in mind, must be flexible with work hours and willingness to travel up to100% during the weekdays and occasional weekend travel and/or work, able to do physically demanding work

Minimum Years of Experience:

  • 2 to 3 Years of Experience

Education:

  • A.A. or B.A./B.S. Degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, History, Historic Preservation, American Studies, or associated degree; enrolled in field school; or equivalent skills and experience

Technical Responsibilities:

  • Primarily field position; excavation skills; basic knowledge of soils; accurate note taking and completion of field forms; sketch maps; basic photography; basic compass/navigation skills
  • Employee responsible for obtaining their basic field kits; must possess steel toed shoes; responsibility for maintaining and upkeep of company issued field equipment

Project and Task Management:

  • Responsible for personal task management and adherence todeadlines and scope

Management Responsibility:

  • Coach/Mentor less experienced staff; may be required to lead asmall crew; responsible for staying on budget and schedule; discusses work performance oftechnicians with Managers
  • Ability to work with or without a supervisor present; ability to take direction from a leader

Communication Skills:

  • Possess oral and written communication skills; interacts with well with other staff, ability tofunction positively in a teamenvironment; ability to communicate effectively with supervisor, coworkers and with lesser experienced personnel, ability to convey field results clearly and concisely to senior level cultural resources staff

Why GAI?

GAI offers an exceptional place to do meaningful work, grow your career, and make a real impact in communities nationwide. You'll join a collaborative, multidisciplinary firm bringing together engineering, planning, and environmental expertise to deliver projects across transportation, infrastructure, power, and energy markets. Working alongside accomplished colleagues, you'll help move projects from vision through construction, creating solutions that keep people moving, power essential systems, and support responsible development.

At GAI, you'll work in a team-driven environment grounded in integrity, respect, and shared success, with the flexibility, resources, and career support that reflect a real and lasting commitment to our people. That commitment includes comprehensive benefits, wellness programs, and employee discounts. With opportunities across the U.S., GAI offers the collaboration and client focus of regional teams, supported by the stability, resources, and career-development opportunities of an established and growing firm.

Benefits To Working at GAI Include:

Competitive Pay & Recognition

  • Market based, competitive compensation
  • Performance driven recognition and development bonuses

Comprehensive Health & Wellness

  • Medical, dental, and vision plans
  • Company-paid short-term and long-term disability
  • Company-paid life insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program and wellness resources

Meaningful Work-Life Balance

  • Generous paid time off + 7 paid holidays
  • An additional floating holiday-use it for what matters to you
  • Paid maternity, paternity, and adoption leave

Growth, Learning & Financial Security

  • 401(k) with company match
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Support and rewards for professional development and certifications

#GAI

Qualifications

Education
Associates of Anthropology (required)

Experience
2 - 3 years: Years of Experience (required)
Experience with Archaeological field excavation techniques; Artifact identification; Data recording; Mapping and surveying; Documenting archaeological features, structures, soils, and testing locations. (required)
1 - 3 years: Years of Cultural Resource Management (CRM) experience in North America (preferred)

Licenses & Certifications
Driver's License (required)

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.


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About GAI Consultants

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

GAI Consultants is an employee-owned corporation offering comprehensive engineering, planning, and environmental consulting services to diverse industry sectors, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in the United States. The company operates in the field of engineering consulting and provides sustainable and economically-viable solutions to clients ranging from bridge design, community planning, to industrial facilities, ecological studies, and more. GAI Consultants was founded in 1958 and, over more than six decades, has grown significantly with a strong commitment to advancing clients' projects and contributing to community development. The firm operates on the core values of integrity, client satisfaction, quality, and workforce development, all of which raises the bar on client service and project excellence, ultimately contributing to the company’s mission, which is 'to create and deliver superior, innovative consulting solutions that enrich the lives of our people and enhance the world we live in.'

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1958

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