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Assistant Archaeologist Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Overview / Responsibilities Wood has a permanent employment opportunity for a Project Archaeologist ... Interest in other natural science disciplines and willingness to assist other disciplines in field ...

Assistant Archaeologist information

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$8

$26

$51

How much do assistant archaeologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant archaeologist in Alberta is $26.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant archaeologist?

Assistant Archaeologists are entry- or mid-level professionals who support archaeologists in the field, laboratory, or office. Their responsibilities often include helping with surveys, excavations, artifact processing, data recording, and report preparation. Assistant Archaeologists work under the supervision of senior archaeologists to ensure projects comply with legal and scientific standards. This role is essential for preserving historical and cultural resources and can be a stepping stone to more advanced positions in archaeology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant archaeologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Archaeologist, you need a background in archaeology or anthropology, experience with fieldwork, and often a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with GIS software, GPS devices, and archaeological recording systems is typically required for documenting and analyzing finds. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set top candidates apart in this role. These competencies are essential for ensuring accurate data collection, efficient field operations, and successful collaboration during archaeological projects.

What are some typical challenges an assistant archaeologist might face during fieldwork?

Assistant Archaeologists often encounter challenges such as working in remote locations with varying weather conditions, adapting to irregular schedules, and handling physically demanding tasks like excavation and artifact transport. They must also ensure meticulous documentation and follow strict protocols to preserve sensitive sites. Collaboration with a multidisciplinary team is essential, requiring clear communication and adaptability to shifting project priorities.

What is the difference between Assistant Archaeologist vs Archaeologist?

AspectAssistant ArchaeologistArchaeologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in archaeology or related fieldBachelor's degree; often a master's or Ph.D. preferred
Work EnvironmentField excavations, labs, museumsFieldwork, research, report writing
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, museums, government agenciesResearch institutions, cultural resource management, academia
Common Search & Comparison IntentEntry-level, assisting rolesLead roles, independent research

The main difference between an Assistant Archaeologist and an Archaeologist lies in experience and responsibilities. Assistant Archaeologists typically support fieldwork and research under supervision, while Archaeologists lead excavations, analyze findings, and publish research. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but Archaeologists often have more advanced degrees and experience, enabling them to work independently and take on more complex projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Archaeologist jobs in Alberta?

The most popular types of Archaeologist jobs in Alberta are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Archaeologist jobs in Alberta look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Archaeologist jobs in Alberta are:

Infographic showing various Assistant Archaeologist job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% 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 $54,673 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Project Archaeologist

Edmonton, AB

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Overview / Responsibilities

Wood has a permanent employment opportunity for a Project Archaeologist in Edmonton, AB. The successful candidate will be working with a robust team of talented professionals across Western Canada with various technical specialties. With global resources and a passion for our work, we employ some of the world's best people and task our project managers with inspiring and developing the next generation of employees. Driven by delivering value to our customers, we strive to provide safe and sustainable project solutions, developing the full potential of our people and contributing to the communities we work in.

This is an early-career position for an individual who is recently qualified, or soon to be qualified to hold an Archaeological Research Permit in Alberta. This individual will possess a Master's Degree in Archaeology or Anthropology with an Archaeology focus, or will be enrolled in the appropriate graduate program with a completion date in 2022. The candidate will have completed an archaeological field school course. Wood will mentor the preferred candidate having the required education, but previous experience of least two previous seasons of archaeological fieldwork in North America would be an asset.

Your responsibilities will include but won't necessarily be limited to:

  • Extensive travel for fieldwork throughout the field season (typically May to November);
  • Participating in and directing archaeological field studies, including survey, excavation, and monitoring;
  • Working closely with client representatives and members of Indigenous communities;
  • Working with other technical specialists as part of multi-disciplinary project teams;
  • All record-keeping required as obligations of the permit;
  • Writing technical reports and proposals; and
  • Safety training and strict adherence to safe work practices.
Skills / Qualifications
  • Master's Degree or near completion of graduate program, as described above;
  • Archaeological field school;
  • Ability and willingness to participate in fieldwork throughout the field season;
  • Experience using ESRI GIS applications, including ESRI Collector and ArcMap;
  • Proven written and oral communication skills (an example of written work may be requested);
  • Ability to work well with others for extended periods of time in potentially challenging conditions; and
  • Ability to follow and implement both technical and safety training and instructions.

Preference will be given to candidates with the following:

  • At least two seasons of archaeological fieldwork in North America;
  • Primary experience in Alberta, with additional experience in other Canadian provinces and territories and a familiarity with the associated regulatory processes;
  • Experience analyzing and cataloguing archaeological materials, specifically lithics, faunal remains, and historic artifacts;
  • Experience with remote sensing equipment, such as magnetometry, portable XRF, ground penetrating radar and RPAS photography;
  • Experience with surveying equipment; and
  • Interest in other natural science disciplines and willingness to assist other disciplines in field data collection where required. 
Company Overview

Wood is a global leader in engineering and consultancy across energy and the built environment, helping to unlock solutions to some of the world's most critical challenges. We provide consulting, projects and operations solutions in more than 60 countries, employing around 40,000 people. www.woodplc.com

Diversity Statement (EEO)

We are an equal opportunity employer that recognises the value of a diverse workforce. All suitably qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective criteria and without regard to the following (which is a non-exhaustive list): race, colour, age, religion, gender, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other characteristics in accordance with the relevant governing laws.

Employment Type: OTHER