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Archaeology Lab Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wisconsin

MVAC Archaeology Technician

La Crosse, WI · On-site

$25 - $32.50/hr

Archaeology Lab Technician Job Duties: If hired from this pool, the archaeology technician will be under the general supervision of the relevant department chair. This position consists of assisting ...

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How much do archaeology lab technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for archaeology lab technician in the United States is $22.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an archaeology lab technician?

Archaeology Lab Technicians are professionals who assist archaeologists by analyzing and processing artifacts and samples recovered from excavation sites. They work primarily in laboratory settings, where they clean, catalog, and preserve artifacts, as well as perform various scientific analyses. Their responsibilities may also include data entry, photographic documentation, and preparing materials for research or display. These technicians play a crucial role in ensuring that archaeological findings are accurately recorded and maintained for further study. The position often requires attention to detail, organizational skills, and a background in archaeology or related sciences.

What are some common challenges faced by archaeology lab technicians in processing and cataloging artifacts?

Archaeology Lab Technicians often encounter challenges such as handling fragile or degraded artifacts, ensuring accurate documentation, and maintaining consistency in cataloging procedures. Managing large volumes of materials while adhering to strict conservation protocols can also be demanding. Additionally, technicians must balance independent tasks with close collaboration with archaeologists, conservators, and other team members to ensure the integrity and context of each find is preserved.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an archaeology lab technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Archaeology Lab Technician, you need a background in archaeology or anthropology, strong analytical skills, and attention to detail, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, artifact cataloging software, and GIS systems is essential for managing and analyzing archaeological finds. Strong organizational skills, meticulous record-keeping, and effective teamwork distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure accurate preservation, documentation, and interpretation of artifacts, which are crucial for advancing archaeological research.

What is the difference between Archaeology Lab Technician vs Archaeology Field Technician?

AspectArchaeology Lab TechnicianArchaeology Field Technician
CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent, some field experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, analyzing artifactsOutdoor excavation sites, fieldwork
Job FocusProcessing, cataloging, and analyzing artifactsExcavating and recording site data

While both roles support archaeological projects, the Archaeology Lab Technician primarily works indoors analyzing artifacts, whereas the Archaeology Field Technician is involved in outdoor excavation and data collection. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within archaeology.

How to become an archaeology lab technician?

To become an archaeology lab technician, typically a bachelor's degree in archaeology, anthropology, or a related field is required. Gaining experience with laboratory techniques, artifact analysis, and familiarity with tools like microscopes and databases is important; some positions may also require certifications or training in conservation or laboratory safety.

How to work in an archaeology lab?

To work as an archaeology lab technician, you should have a background in archaeology, anthropology, or a related field, along with skills in cataloging, cleaning, and analyzing artifacts. Familiarity with lab equipment, such as microscopes and preservation tools, is essential, and attention to detail is critical for accurate documentation. Typically, this role involves following safety protocols and working in a controlled environment to preserve and study archaeological materials.
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Archaeology Lab Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Archaeology Lab Technician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 12% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,864 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Archaeology Lab Technician

James Madison's Montpelier

Orange, VA • On-site

$18.36/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Work as part of a mission and value driven team in carrying out all elements of the archaeological lab process in order to improve our understanding of the cultural resources of James Madison?s Montpelier ? the home and the plantation. Work with the archaeology staff to conduct archaeological artifact and soil sample processing, iron conservation, and collections management work, interpret this information to the visiting public on a day-to-day basis, supervise archaeology staff interns, be an active part of the LEARN public archaeology programs at Montpelier, and teach lab processes to the Summer Archaeology Field School.

This position pays $18.36 an hour with an average of 35 hours per week (full time). This position provides on property housing at Arlington House. The Archaeology team is dedicated to professional development and providing opportunities to expand your skills and advance your career.

DUTIES

  • Learn from the archaeology staff, continue to build on and hone skills learned through previous archaeological field and lab experiences.

  • Check-in and accessioning of archaeological samples into the archaeology lab.

  • Post-excavation organizing and processing of archaeological materials in the archaeology lab (water-screening, floating, finds washing, gradient sorting, picking, cataloging, iron conservation).

  • Assist Archaeology Lab Director in supervising, instructing, and educating volunteers and staff interns in the lab, students during Montpelier?s archaeological field school, and the LEARN Archaeology public expedition program participants.

  • Maintenance of databases related to archaeological collections, storage, and the archaeology study collection.

  • 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.

  • Engage in descendant collaboration regarding Montpelier?s archaeological work with the Montpelier Descendants Committee members.

  • Work a varying weekly schedule that may include occasional weekends (not to exceed 70 hours per pay period).

  • Maintain and care for the Community Archaeology Lab at Montpelier?s offices and lab space as well as the residence at Arlington House.

  • Work as part of a value driven team to further the goals of the Archaeology Department and mission of The Montpelier Foundation.

  • Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Candidates will be required to have a Bachelor's degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or a related field.

  • Must have attended an accredited historical archaeology field school.

  • Must have archaeological experience or training working in or with archaeological collections from the Virginia Piedmont.

  • Must have archaeological experience working with 18th-19th century archaeological artifacts of Virginia.

  • Familiarity with Montpelier?s Archaeology Lab processes and collections management protocols strongly encouraged.

  • Must be able to effectively communicate, teach, and supervise archaeological lab techniques to untrained public, volunteers, and students.

  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Products (Word, Excel and Access).

  • Ability to be organized and efficient both independently and in group work environments.

  • Willingness to adhere to The Values of The Montpelier Archaeology Department.

  • Valid Driver?s license.

  • Acceptable background check.

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