Archaeology Field information
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$14.66 - $16.83
5% of jobs
$16.83 - $18.99
16% of jobs
$19.43 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$18.99 - $21.15
17% of jobs
The median wage is $22.90 / hr.
$21.15 - $23.32
14% of jobs
$23.32 - $25.48
15% of jobs
$27.10 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$25.48 - $27.64
10% of jobs
$27.64 - $29.81
8% of jobs
$29.81 - $31.97
5% of jobs
$31.97 - $34.13
4% of jobs
$34.13 - $36.30
3% of jobs
$36.30 - $38.46
2% of jobs
How much do archaeology field jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for archaeology field in the United States is $24.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Archaeologists in the field are responsible for locating, excavating, and analyzing artifacts and other physical remains of past human activity. Their work often includes surveying sites, digging carefully to uncover items, recording data, and preserving any findings for further study. Fieldwork can be physically demanding and may require travel to remote locations, but it provides essential insights into human history and prehistory.
To thrive in the archaeology field, you need a background in anthropology or archaeology, fieldwork experience, and often at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Proficiency in using GIS mapping software, excavation tools, and sometimes knowledge of laboratory analysis techniques or certifications in field safety are important. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help professionals collaborate and interpret findings accurately. These skills ensure precise data collection, meaningful site analysis, and successful collaboration in uncovering and preserving historical knowledge.
Archaeological fieldwork often involves working in remote or outdoor locations, which can present challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to amenities. Teams overcome these obstacles through thorough logistical planning, clear communication, and adaptability. Safety protocols and regular team briefings help ensure that everyone is prepared and able to respond effectively to changing conditions. Additionally, close collaboration with specialists, local communities, and regulatory bodies is essential for successful and ethical excavations.
Archaeologists are still in demand in fields such as cultural resource management, academia, and museums, especially as heritage preservation and environmental assessments grow in importance. Employment opportunities often require fieldwork skills, knowledge of excavation tools, and relevant certifications, with job stability influenced by government funding and project availability.
Archaeologists' salaries vary depending on experience, location, and employment sector, with median annual wages around $63,000. Fieldwork, research skills, and advanced degrees can influence earning potential, but many positions are in academia or government agencies with moderate pay scales.
An archaeology degree can lead to careers such as archaeological technician, field archaeologist, museum curator, heritage manager, or research analyst. These roles often involve fieldwork, excavation, preservation, and analysis of artifacts, requiring skills in excavation techniques, report writing, and sometimes specialized certifications. Employment can be found in government agencies, museums, universities, and private consulting firms.
Jobs in archaeology include field archaeologist, lab technician, conservation specialist, and archaeological researcher. These roles often involve excavation, artifact analysis, preservation, and report writing, requiring skills in excavation techniques, data recording, and sometimes specialized tools like GIS or dating methods.
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