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Archaeology Lab Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Working closely with senior archaeologists, you will support every stage of field and lab ... Support Artifact Analysis - Assist with basic artifact identification, sorting, and preliminary ...

Archaeological Technician (Part-Time)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Bachelor's degree in Archaeology, Anthropology or related field. * Completion of an archaeological ... Working together in the field, office, or lab, we help guide clients through the steps and ...

On-Call Archaeological Technician

Tempe, AZ

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

Working together in the field, office, or lab, we help guide clients through the steps and ... Bachelor's degree in Archaeology, Anthropology or related field. * Completion of an archaeological ...

Working together in the field, office, or lab, we help guide clients through the steps and ... Bachelor's degree in Archaeology/Anthropology or related field and 2 years' related experience.

On-Call Archaeologist

Fresno, CA · On-site

$57K - $83K/yr

On occasion, there may be opportunity for office and/or lab-based work. Your Key Responsibilities ... Participate in field reconnaissance surveys (linear and block type) * Assist in archaeological ...

On-Call Archaeologist

Fresno, CA · On-site

$57K - $83K/yr

On occasion, there may be opportunity for office and/or lab-based work. Your Key Responsibilities ... Participate in field reconnaissance surveys (linear and block type) * Assist in archaeological ...

On-Call Archaeologist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$52K - $76K/yr

On occasion, there may be opportunity for office and/or lab-based work. Your Key Responsibilities ... Participate in field reconnaissance surveys (linear and block type) * Assist in archaeological ...

On-Call Archaeologist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$66K - $95K/yr

On occasion, there may be opportunity for office and/or lab-based work. Your Key Responsibilities ... Participate in field reconnaissance surveys (linear and block type) * Assist in archaeological ...

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Archaeology Lab Assistant information

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How much do archaeology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for archaeology lab assistant in the United States is $20.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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 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 in a controlled environment, often requiring adherence to safety and preservation protocols.

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.
More about Archaeology Lab Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Archaeology Lab Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Archaeology Lab Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Archaeology Lab jobs? The most popular types of Archaeology Lab jobs are:
What states have the most Archaeology Lab Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Archaeology Lab Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Archaeology Lab Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,113 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Archaeological Field Technician

S&ME, Inc.

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Archaeological Field TechnicianRequisition Number: 2026-1610-12Do you thrive in hands-on, outdoor environments and bring curiosity, reliability, and a strong respect for cultural heritage to every project? S&ME is seeking detail-oriented, passionate, temporary, as-needed Archaeological Field Technicians to join our team in Columbia, South Carolina.At S&ME, we have a history of delivering innovative geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction material testing for over 50 years. Over the decades, we have grown into a trusted partner for clients across various industries, including transportation, energy, water, waste management, education, government, commercial, industrial, and more. Our commitment to technical excellence and integrity has established us as a leader in our field.Why Work at S&ME?Career Growth: We invest in your success with mentorship, training, and leadership opportunities.Exciting Projects: Big or small, simple or complex, we do it all. Our projects are as diverse as they are exciting, so every day brings something new.Supportive Culture: Collaboration, respect, and positivity fuel our team environment.Flexibility: Work-life balance matters to us, helping you thrive inside and outside the office.Community Impact: Your work will directly improve the communities where we live, work, and play.About The Role:As an Archaeological Field Technician, you will play a key role in uncovering, preserving, and interpreting the material traces of the past. Working closely with senior archaeologists, you will support every stage of field and lab operations, from locating buried cultural resources to meticulously processing artifacts that inform historical and environmental understanding. Your work will directly contribute to ensuring that archaeological data is accurately collected, documented, and integrated into project research, helping teams make informed decisions that honor cultural heritage and regulatory requirements.Conduct Field Excavations - Carry out shovel tests, test unit excavations, and systematic artifact collection to identify and document archaeological resources.Perform Artifact Processing - Clean, catalog, and prepare recovered materials in the laboratory to ensure accurate analysis and long-term preservation.Support Artifact Analysis - Assist with basic artifact identification, sorting, and preliminary interpretation to contribute to broader research and reporting efforts.Assist with Background Research - Compile environmental, historical, and cultural data to support project planning, context development, and regulatory compliance.Maintain Accurate Documentation - Record field observations, provenience information, and lab data with precision to ensure the integrity and reliability of archaeological findings.About You:You have a High School diploma/GED required, a Bachelor's degree in anthropology, archaeology, history, or a related field preferredYou have prior archaeological experience/field school preferredYou have strong communication skills (speaking, reading, and writing) using the English languageYou can travel extensively throughout the Southeast, Midwest, and Mid-AtlanticYou Are Willing and Able to:Perform the physical demands of the position with the use of company-provided Personal Protective Equipment, such as:Working outdoors in varying weather conditionsRoutinely lifting and carrying 40-50lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)Working outside of normal business hours and traveling (typically out-of-town and/or overnight) as project needs ariseGrow With Us:At S&ME, your career growth matters. You'll receive professional training, work on exciting projects, and be part of a company that truly invests in its people. This is more than a job; it's a chance to build a long-term career in the engineering and construction industry. S&ME provides a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family, as well as career development resources. Come grow and thrive with us at S&ME!This temporary, as needed role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk-ins are accepted.
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