... School Assist Archaeology staff in supervising and educating students during Montpeliers ... Post-excavation processing of archaeological materials in the archaeology lab (water-screening ...
... School Assist Archaeology staff in supervising and educating students during Montpeliers ... Post-excavation processing of archaeological materials in the archaeology lab (water-screening ...
Archaeology Summer Intern 2026
Orange, VA · On-site
$12.66/hr
... School * Assist Archaeology staff in supervising and educating students during Montpelier?s ... Post-excavation processing of archaeological materials in the archaeology lab (water-screening ...
Archaeology Summer Intern 2026
Orange, VA · On-site
$12.66/hr
... School * Assist Archaeology staff in supervising and educating students during Montpelier?s ... Post-excavation processing of archaeological materials in the archaeology lab (water-screening ...
Assistant Conservator of Paper
Williamsburg, VA · On-site
$19.47 - $29.28/hr
... archaeological, architectural, and documentary research. The Historic Area is staffed by highly ... Assists in management of day-to-day operation of paper lab including ordering supplies and ...
Assistant Conservator of Paper
Williamsburg, VA · On-site
$19.47 - $29.28/hr
... archaeological, architectural, and documentary research. The Historic Area is staffed by highly ... Assists in management of day-to-day operation of paper lab including ordering supplies and ...
... archaeological, architectural, and documentary research. The Historic Area is staffed by highly ... Assists in management of day-to-day operation of paper lab including ordering supplies and ...
... archaeological, architectural, and documentary research. The Historic Area is staffed by highly ... Assists in management of day-to-day operation of paper lab including ordering supplies and ...
Archaeology Lab Assistant information
What is an archaeology lab assistant?
Archaeology Lab Assistants are professionals who support archaeologists by processing, cataloging, and analyzing artifacts and samples collected from archaeological sites. Their responsibilities often include cleaning, sorting, labeling, and storing materials, as well as assisting with data entry and laboratory maintenance. They play a critical role in helping researchers interpret findings and preserve historical objects for further study and display.
What does an archaeology lab assistant do?
As an Archaeology Lab Assistant, your day-to-day tasks often include cataloging artifacts, conducting preliminary cleaning and conservation, and recording detailed findings for analysis. You’ll work closely with archaeologists, conservators, and other lab staff to ensure artifacts are properly preserved and documented. Collaboration is key, as you may assist with preparing materials for research, supporting ongoing excavation projects, and sometimes training volunteers or students in lab protocols. This role provides valuable hands-on experience and insight into both the scientific and organizational aspects of archaeological research.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an archaeology lab assistant, and why are they important?
To thrive as an Archaeology Lab Assistant, you need a background in archaeology or anthropology, strong analytical skills, and attention to detail, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, artifact cataloging software, and basic conservation techniques is typically required. Excellent organization, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively and maintain precise records. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate analysis, proper artifact handling, and the integrity of archaeological research.
What is the difference between Archaeology Lab Assistant vs Archaeology Field Technician?
| Aspect | Archaeology Lab Assistant | Archaeology Field Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer related coursework | High school diploma; fieldwork experience often preferred |
| Work Environment | Laboratory setting, indoors, analyzing artifacts | Outdoor excavation sites, fieldwork |
| Job Focus | Processing, cataloging, and analyzing artifacts | Excavating and recording archaeological sites |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Museums, research institutions, universities | Archaeological firms, universities, government agencies |
The main difference between an Archaeology Lab Assistant and an Archaeology Field Technician lies in their work environment and focus. Lab Assistants work indoors analyzing artifacts, while Field Technicians are involved in outdoor excavations. Both roles support archaeological research but specialize in different stages of the process.
How to become an archaeology lab assistant?
To become an archaeology lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with knowledge of archaeological methods and laboratory procedures. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with lab equipment, and sometimes a background in archaeology, anthropology, or related fields. Gaining experience through internships or volunteering can also improve job prospects.
How to work in an archaeology lab?
To work as an archaeology lab assistant, you should have a basic understanding of archaeological methods, be detail-oriented, and comfortable handling fragile artifacts. Skills in lab techniques, record-keeping, and familiarity with tools like microscopes and preservation materials are important. Typically, this role involves cleaning, cataloging, and analyzing artifacts under supervision, often requiring attention to safety protocols and sometimes a relevant degree or certification.
What are the most commonly searched types of Archaeology Lab jobs in Virginia?
The most popular types of Archaeology Lab jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Archaeology Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia?
For Archaeology Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Archaeology Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia look for?
The top searched job categories for Archaeology Lab Assistant jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Archaeology Lab Assistant jobs?
Cities in Virginia with the most Archaeology Lab Assistant job openings:
$12.66/hr
Full-time, Temporary, Internship
Posted 17 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