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Archaeology State Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position will work with senior archaeologists, field supervisors, architectural historians ... by local, state, and/or federal law. #LI-GD1 About Us About WSP WSP USA is the U.S. operating ...

Stantec is seeking Archaeological Field Technicians to assist with upcoming fieldwork that will ... state and local law). Temporary/casual employees have access to 401(k) plans, employee stock ...

Stantec is seeking Archaeological Field Technicians to assist with upcoming fieldwork that will ... state and local law). Temporary/casual employees have access to 401(k) plans, employee stock ...

MVAC Archaeology Technician

La Crosse, WI

$25 - $32.50/hr

Regular Job Profile: Archaeology Lab Technician Job Duties: If hired from this pool, the ... Confidentiality of Applicant Materials UWL is a state agency and subject to Wisconsin's Open ...

Due Diligence Reports; coordinating consultation with State Historic Preservation Officers (SHPO ... Experience in underwater archaeology is a bonus. * Meet the Secretary of the Interior ...

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Archaeology State information

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$31.5K

$60.7K

$97K

How much do archaeology state jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for archaeology state in the United States is $60,710.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Which state pays the highest salary for an archaeologist?

California generally offers the highest average salaries for archaeologists due to its extensive archaeological sites and higher cost of living. Salaries can vary based on experience, education, and specific employers, but state-level pay tends to be highest in regions with significant archaeological activity and funding. Archaeologists working in government agencies, universities, or private firms in California often earn more than in other states.

What are the typical challenges faced by professionals working in a state archaeology office?

Professionals in a state archaeology office often navigate challenges such as balancing fieldwork with administrative duties, ensuring compliance with preservation laws, and managing multiple projects across diverse geographic areas. They frequently collaborate with government agencies, tribal representatives, and private developers to protect cultural resources, which can involve complex negotiations and tight deadlines. Additionally, adapting to varying field conditions and staying updated on regulatory changes are common aspects of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a State Archaeologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a State Archaeologist, you need an advanced degree in archaeology or anthropology, extensive experience in fieldwork, and knowledge of cultural resource management laws. Familiarity with GIS software, site survey tools, and compliance with state and federal preservation regulations is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and leadership skills are essential for coordinating research, engaging stakeholders, and managing teams. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate site assessments, legal compliance, and effective preservation of cultural heritage.

What states pay archaeologists the most?

Archaeologists tend to earn higher salaries in states with larger budgets for cultural and historical preservation, such as California, New York, and Massachusetts. Salaries can also vary based on experience, education, and the type of employer, with government agencies and universities often offering higher pay for experienced professionals. Overall, geographic location influences salary levels for archaeology jobs, but specialized skills and certifications can also impact earning potential.

What is archaeology at the state level?

Archaeology at the state level typically involves the study, preservation, and management of cultural resources and archaeological sites within a specific state. State archaeologists work for government agencies, universities, or museums, and they often oversee surveys, excavations, and compliance with heritage laws. Their job includes protecting historical sites, reviewing development projects for potential impact on archaeological resources, and educating the public about the state's history. They also play a key role in ensuring that archaeological research adheres to state and federal regulations.

What is the difference between Archaeology State vs Archaeology Technician?

AspectArchaeology StateArchaeology Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in archaeology or related field; often state-specific certificationsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree; fieldwork experience often preferred
Work EnvironmentState government agencies, field sites, labsField excavations, labs, museums
Employer & Industry UsageState agencies, public projectsResearch firms, museums, government projects
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in archaeologyEntry-level to mid-level fieldwork position

In summary, Archaeology State roles typically involve working for government agencies with specific certifications and a focus on public projects, while Archaeology Technicians often perform fieldwork and lab tasks across various organizations. Both roles require related educational backgrounds but differ in responsibilities and work settings.

What does a state archaeologist do?

A state archaeologist is responsible for managing and protecting archaeological resources within a state, conducting research, overseeing excavations, and ensuring compliance with preservation laws. They often work with government agencies, use tools like GIS and excavation equipment, and may require specialized training or certification in archaeology or anthropology.

What is the 50 year rule in archeology?

The 50 year rule in archaeology states that artifacts and historical items are generally considered eligible for excavation and study if they are at least 50 years old. This guideline helps determine what objects are likely to be of historical significance and suitable for preservation and research by archaeologists. It is used to prioritize sites and artifacts for investigation and conservation efforts.
More about Archaeology State jobs
What cities are hiring for Archaeology State jobs? Cities with the most Archaeology State job openings:
What states have the most Archaeology State jobs? States with the most job openings for Archaeology State jobs include:
Infographic showing various Archaeology State job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 88% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,710 per year, or $29.2 per hour.
On Call Archaeology Field Technician

On Call Archaeology Field Technician

WSP

Herndon, VA • On-site

$23.66 - $29.62/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


WSP rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 57 rated business consultants


Job description

Job Description
This Opportunity
WSP is currently initiating a search for an On Call Archaeology Field Technician
for exciting projects in the Herndon, VA and Washington, DC area. Be involved in projects with our Earth & Environment Cultural Resource Team and become a part of a growing organization that meets our client's
objectives and solves their cultural resource challenges.
WSP is currently looking to fill an hourly, project-based position. This position will work with senior
archaeologists, field supervisors, architectural historians, and other environmental staff to
expand existing and new client relationships and contribute to WSP's capacity and
reputation in the environmental and engineering marketplace. Compensation will be
commensurate with credentials and experience.
The successful candidate will work with environmental and heritage/cultural resources
specialists throughout the Mid Atlantic. Current and upcoming archaeological project
contributions are needed in Virginia. This position is expected to take an active role in
conducting fieldwork and supporting the collection and preparation of digital data for
reporting findings. The successful candidate will have experience with field survey,
including the excavation of shovel test pits, and the logging of soils and collection and
logging of artifacts. Experience in the Eastern US is preferred but not required.
Your Impact
• Assist with field projects during all phases of archaeological testing (primarily Phase
I and II) by performing pedestrian reconnaissance, shovel tests, test unit excavation
supervised by a Field Director
• Document findings through detailed note taking including Munsell soil descriptions
and completing field forms
• Collect and log prehistoric and historic artifacts
• Work as part of a team
• Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company resources and
adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs
Who You Are
Required Qualifications
• Undergraduate coursework in anthropology, archaeology, historic preservation, or
related field
• Archaeological field school - can be substituted by 3 month's professional
experience or completion of an Archeological Technician Certification program
• 0-2 years of experience in performing cultural resources services in a field, office, or
laboratory setting
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a team environment
• Attention to detail and excellent written communication skills
• Self-motivated, physically able to conduct all aspects of fieldwork in all weather
conditions, and be able to follow instructions
• Ability to perform Phase I survey and carry up to 25 lbs. of personal gear and
company equipment
• Experience identifying and analyzing a wide variety of archaeological materials from
prehistoric and historic-period archaeological sites in the field
Preferred Qualifications
• B.A./B.S. degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, History, or related field
• 0-2 years of previous field work experience in the eastern US
• Willingness to travel to remote project sites with overnight stay
• Reliable transportation for travel to projects inside and outside of Virginia; project
travel is reimbursed in accordance with company policy.
• Experience washing and labeling artifact collections
WSP Benefits:
WSP provides a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on a providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career. These benefits include coverage related to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life; retirement savings; paid sick leave; paid vacation (or other personal time); paid parental leave; and paid time off for purposes of bereavement, voting, and/or attendance at naturalization proceedings.
Compensation:
Expected Salary: $23.66-29.62
WSP USA is providing the compensation range that the company in good faith believes it
might pay and offer for this position, based on the successful applicant's education,
experience, knowledge, skills, abilities in addition to internal equity and specific
geographic location.
WSP USA reserves the right to ultimately pay more or less than the posted range and offer additional benefits and other compensation, depending on
circumstances not related to an applicant's sex or other status protected by local, state,
and/or federal law.
#LI-GD1
About Us
About WSP
WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.
www.wsp.com
WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.
At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?
WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.
The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.
NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:
WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.

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