1

Archaeology Lab Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

They include Stormwater Infrastructure Resilience and Justice (SIRJ) Lab, Archaeology and Historic Preservation Lab, and Bostwick House. The Program assistant will support and report to the Director ...

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?

AspectArchaeology Lab AssistantArchaeology Field Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer related courseworkHigh school diploma; fieldwork experience often preferred
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, indoors, analyzing artifactsOutdoor excavation sites, fieldwork
Job FocusProcessing, cataloging, and analyzing artifactsExcavating and recording archaeological sites
Employer & Industry UsageMuseums, research institutions, universitiesArchaeological 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 Washington?

The most popular types of Archaeology Lab jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Archaeology Lab Assistant jobs in Washington?

For Archaeology Lab Assistant jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Archaeology Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Archaeology Lab Assistant job openings:

Faculty Assistant

College Park, MD

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Description SummaryOrganization's Summary Statement:
The School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation (MAPP) envisions a world where bold ideas and integrated disciplines converge to solve the grand challenges of our time. For more than 50 years, we have advanced research, education and practice at the intersections of design, planning, preservation and development. We are rooted in people-focused solutions, collaboration and service to the greater good. Looking forward, we will continue to lead with innovation and impact, shaping places that strengthen communities, enrich culture and inspire future generations. We prepare the next generation of architects, planners, preservationists, and developers to shape resilient, vibrant and just communities. By bringing these disciplines together under one roof, we mirror the collaboration of real-world practice and equip students to tackle the most pressing challenges facing our built environment-from climate change to social inequity, from cultural preservation to sustainable growth. Over 60% of our faculty are actively engaged in creative and professional practice while teaching in our programs. These faculty work in top design studios, development firms and agencies in the Baltimore-Washington area, bringing their expertise and talent into the classroom for the next generation of practitioners.
Our research centers and institutes forward groundbreaking research within the built environment that advances dynamic, sustainable and just places. They include National Center for Smart Growth, Colvin Institute of Real Estate Development, and Environmental Finance Center. Our research labs forward cutting-edge approaches to shed light on critical issues and discoveries within Maryland communities and beyond. They include Stormwater Infrastructure Resilience and Justice (SIRJ) Lab, Archaeology and Historic Preservation Lab, and Bostwick House.
The Program assistant will support and report to the Director of the Partnership for Action Learning in Sustainability. The Program Assistant will assist the Director with the development of PALS policies, procedures, and standardized forms for faculty and students, and other paperwork related to PALS courses, including faculty supply requests. The program assistant will schedule scoping meetings with PALS staff, faculty and PALS sponsors to identify project matches, and help to manage relationships between faculty, students, and sponsors throughout the school year. This will include ensuring that all PALS paperwork is completed and that all required meetings between faculty, students, and sponsors occur. They will also assist with planning the PALS Showcase and support the Director in developing new partnerships across the region.
The responsibilities of this position include:
- Assist the Director with the development of PALS policies, procedures, and standardized forms for faculty and students, and other paperwork related to PALS courses, including faculty supply requests.
-Schedule scoping meetings with PALS staff, faculty and PALS sponsors to identify project matches, and help to manage relationships between faculty, students, and sponsors throughout the school year. This includes ensuring that all PALS paperwork is completed and that all required meetings between faculty, students, and sponsors occur.
-Assist with planning the PALS Showcase and support the Director in developing new partnerships across the region.
Physical Demands:
Sedentary work performed in a normal office environment; exerts up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Ability to attend meetings . Spending long hours in front of a computer screen.
Licenses/ Certifications: N/A
Minimum Qualifications:
-Bachelor's degree in policy, planning, natural sciences, or related fields.
-Excellent written and verbal communication skills
-Ability to periodically attend classes as well as on campus and off campus meetings during the day.
Preferences:
-Master's degree in policy, planning, natural sciences, or related fields.
-Outreach and community engagement experience.
-Knowledge and work experience in the District-Maryland-Virginia metropolitan region.
-Experience with Canva, PowerPoint, Excel, and Adobe creative suite.
-Experience with social media engagement.
-Candidates should be able to work in a diverse, high-paced environment and have strong administrative skills, writing and editing skills, proficient oral and interpersonal communications skills, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
-1-3 years of work experience in a nonprofit, academic, or policy setting.
-Willingness to support administrative, logistical, outreach, communications, and research tasks on a small team.
UMD will not sponsor the successful candidate for work authorization in the United States now or in the future.Additional Job Details

This position is funded for approximately 1 year.

Required Application Materials:

1. Cover Letter
2. Resume
3. List of 3 references

Best Consideration Date: 8/24/2026

Posting Close Date: 8/24/2026

Open Until Filled: No.

Financial Disclosure RequiredNo

For more information on Financial Disclosure, please visit Maryland's State Ethics Commission website.

DepartmentARCH-Center for Smart Growth Research & EducationWorker Sub-Type Faculty RegularSalary Range$49,072.90 - $65,000
Benefits Summary

For more information on Regular Faculty benefits, select this link.

Background Checks

Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regardingdisclosablebackground checkinformation. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.

Employment Eligibility

The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.

EEO Statement

The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University's Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.

Title IX Non-Discrimination NoticeResources
  • Learn how military skills translate to civilian opportunities withO*Net Online

Search Firm Managed Recruitment

There are some positions that are not advertised on this career site as the search is being managed by a Search Firm.

Please visit the link below to see these available opportunities:

Search Firm Managed Vacancies