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 Aug 15, 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.
The demand for archaeologists is moderate and varies by region and sector. Employment is expected to grow slowly, with opportunities primarily in academic, government, and cultural resource management fields that require skills in excavation, analysis, and reporting.
Archaeologists can work in fields such as cultural resource management, academic research, museums, government agencies, and private consulting. They often conduct excavations, analyze artifacts, prepare reports, and may need skills in GIS, surveying, and laboratory analysis. Job opportunities can include fieldwork, lab work, teaching, and heritage preservation.
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.
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.
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.
With an archaeology degree, you can pursue careers such as archaeological technician, field archaeologist, museum curator, heritage manager, or cultural resource specialist. These roles often involve fieldwork, research, preservation, and public education, and may require skills in excavation, documentation, and knowledge of conservation tools.
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