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Archaeology Intern Summer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Archaeology Intern Summer information

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$9

$17

$23

How much do archaeology intern summer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for archaeology intern summer in the United States is $17.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an archaeology intern do during the summer?

An Archaeology Intern in the summer typically assists professional archaeologists with fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and research projects. Duties often include excavating sites, cataloging artifacts, recording data, and helping with site preservation. Interns gain hands-on experience in archaeological methods and contribute to ongoing research. The position is ideal for students or recent graduates interested in archaeology or related fields. It's a valuable opportunity to build practical skills and network within the field.

What kinds of hands-on experiences can I expect as an archaeology intern during the summer?

As a summer Archaeology Intern, you will likely engage in a variety of hands-on tasks, such as assisting with field surveys, excavations, artifact cataloguing, and data recording under the supervision of professional archaeologists. You may also help with laboratory analysis and participate in team meetings to discuss findings. The work can be physically demanding, often involving outdoor activities in varying weather conditions, but it offers invaluable real-world experience and exposure to archaeological methods. Collaboration with peers and mentors is common, giving you opportunities to learn from experienced staff and contribute to ongoing research projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an archaeology intern during the summer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Archaeology Intern, you typically need a background in archaeology or anthropology, attention to detail, and basic fieldwork or laboratory skills, often gained through relevant coursework. Familiarity with tools like GIS software, mapping equipment, and artifact cataloging systems is advantageous. Strong observational skills, teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication help interns excel in diverse and sometimes challenging environments. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, support effective collaboration, and contribute to the success of archaeological research projects.

What is the difference between Archaeology Intern Summer vs Archaeology Technician?

AspectArchaeology Intern SummerArchaeology Technician
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recent graduate of archaeology or related programsOften holds an associate's or bachelor's degree in archaeology or related field
Work EnvironmentField excavations, lab work, supervised learningFieldwork, site analysis, data recording, more independent
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by universities, museums, or archaeological firmsEmployers include archaeological consulting firms, museums, government agencies

In summary, an Archaeology Intern Summer is typically a student or recent graduate gaining introductory experience, while an Archaeology Technician is a more experienced role involving hands-on fieldwork and data management. Both roles are essential in archaeological projects but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

More about Archaeology Intern Summer jobs

What cities are hiring for Archaeology Intern Summer jobs?

Cities with the most Archaeology Intern Summer job openings:

What states have the most Archaeology Intern Summer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Archaeology Intern Summer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Archaeology Intern Summer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 24% Full Time, 66% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,518 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Archaeology Summer Intern 2026

Orange, VA

$12.66/hr

Full-time, Temporary, Internship

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Work as part of a mission and value driven team in carrying out all elements of the archaeological process in order to improve our understanding of the cultural resources of James Madisons Montpelier the home and the plantation. Work with the archaeology staff to conduct archaeological excavations and surveys, interpret this information to the visiting public on a day-to-day basis, be an active part of the Summer LEARN public archaeology program(s) at Montpelier, and in teaching the Summer Archaeology Field School. This position pays $12.66 an hour with an average of 35 hours per week (full time)

This position provides on property housing. The Archaeology team is dedicated to professional development and providing opportunities to expand your skills and advance your career. This position also provides an opportunity to apply for the 2026-27 internships with the Montpelier Archaeology Department.

DUTIES Learn from the archaeological department in order to build on and hone skills learned during the previous Field School Assist Archaeology staff in supervising and educating students during Montpeliers archaeological field school and at Arlington House. Excavation of archaeological strata and features individually and as part of a team using appropriate tools. Rigorous and conscientious recording of archaeological deposits (photography, stratum sheets, drawing) of excavated strata/features.

Assist in the survey of cultural resources and archaeological materials through the use of shovel test pits, transit/total station, geophysical survey, or walk over surveys as required. Post-excavation processing of archaeological materials in the archaeology lab (water-screening, floating, finds washing, gradient sorting, picking, cataloging). Check-in and process archaeological samples, and maintain archaeological collections database.

Instruct archaeological techniques during the LEARN Archaeology Public programs offered by the Montpelier Archaeology Department. Engage with the public in a polite and professional manner as one informs them of archaeological processes and historical concepts. This includes visitors at the archaeological site, archaeology lab, and using social media.

Work a varying weekly schedule that may include weekends (not to exceed 70 hours per pay period). Maintain and care for Arlington House throughout the field school. Work as part of a value driven team to further the goals of the Archaeology Department and mission of The Montpelier Foundation, setting an example for students.

Other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS: Must have attended the Montpelier Archaeology Departments archaeological field school within the past five years. Must be able to effectively communicate archaeological techniques to untrained volunteers and students; Willingness to adhere to The Values of The Montpelier Archaeology Department.

Acceptable background check