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Assistant Archaeologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Participate in cross-discipline training and assist with projects outside one's own discipline ... Register of Professional Archaeologist (RPA) a plus; * 6+ years professional experience in ...

Participate in cross-discipline training and assist with projects outside one's own discipline ... Register of Professional Archaeologist (RPA) a plus; * 6+ years professional experience in ...

Other duties may be assigned. * Assist senior archaeologists in conducting archaeological and historical site record searches. * Perform archival research, field surveys, site mapping, preparing ...

On-Call Archaeologist

Fresno, CA · On-site

$57K - $83K/yr

Participate in field reconnaissance surveys (linear and block type) * Assist in archaeological impact assessments * Excavations * Construction Monitoring Qualifications Your Capabilities and ...

On-Call Archaeologist

Fresno, CA · On-site

$57K - $83K/yr

Participate in field reconnaissance surveys (linear and block type) * Assist in archaeological impact assessments * Excavations * Construction Monitoring Your Capabilities and Credentials * Interest ...

On-Call Archaeologist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$66K - $95K/yr

Participate in field reconnaissance surveys (linear and block type) * Assist in archaeological impact assessments * Excavations * Construction Monitoring Your Capabilities and Credentials * Interest ...

Staff Archaeologist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$80K - $119K/yr

Mid-Career To Senior Archaeologist FirstCarbon Solutions (FCS), an ADEC Innovation, is seeking a ... * Assist in monitoring staff's workload, schedules, project budgets, and participates in screening ...

On-Call Archaeologist

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$66K - $95K/yr

Participate in field reconnaissance surveys (linear and block type) * Assist in archaeological impact assessments * Excavations * Construction Monitoring Your Capabilities and Credentials * Interest ...

On-Call Archaeologist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$52K - $76K/yr

Participate in field reconnaissance surveys (linear and block type) * Assist in archaeological impact assessments * Excavations * Construction Monitoring Qualifications Your Capabilities and ...

On-Call Archaeologist

Fresno, CA · On-site

$66K - $95K/yr

Participate in field reconnaissance surveys (linear and block type) * Assist in archaeological impact assessments * Excavations * Construction Monitoring Your Capabilities and Credentials * Interest ...

On-Call Archaeologist

Bishop, CA · On-site

$57K - $83K/yr

Participate in field reconnaissance surveys (linear and block type) * Assist in archaeological impact assessments * Excavations * Construction Monitoring Your Capabilities and Credentials * Interest ...

On-Call Archaeologist

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$57K - $83K/yr

Participate in field reconnaissance surveys (linear and block type) * Assist in archaeological impact assessments * Excavations * Construction Monitoring Your Capabilities and Credentials * Interest ...

On-Call Archaeologist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$66K - $95K/yr

Participate in field reconnaissance surveys (linear and block type) * Assist in archaeological impact assessments * Excavations * Construction Monitoring Your Capabilities and Credentials * Interest ...

On-Call Archaeologist

Chico, CA · On-site

$66K - $95K/yr

Participate in field reconnaissance surveys (linear and block type) * Assist in archaeological impact assessments * Excavations * Construction Monitoring Your Capabilities and Credentials * Interest ...

Staff Archaeologist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$80K - $119K/yr

... * Assist in monitoring staff's workload, schedules, project budgets, and participates in screening ... Expertise in California Archaeology and general knowledge of the other Cultural Resources ...

Staff Archaeologist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$80K - $119K/yr

... * Assist in monitoring staff's workload, schedules, project budgets, and participates in screening ... Expertise in California Archaeology and general knowledge of the other Cultural Resources ...

Your Opportunity Stantec is seeking a skilled and motivated mid-career Staff Archaeologist with 3-5 ... Support with reporting (CEQA/Section 106), tracking, execution, and review of projects * Assist in ...

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Assistant Archaeologist information

See California salary details

$8

$25

$50

How much do assistant archaeologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant archaeologist in California is $25.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.48 and $32.01 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 California?

The most popular types of Archaeologist jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Archaeologist jobs in California?

For Assistant Archaeologist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Archaeologist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Assistant Archaeologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Archaeologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,537 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Archaeologist

langan

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Langan rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 450 rated engineering


Job description

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major developers, renewable energy producers, energy companies, corporations, healthcare systems, colleges/universities, and large infrastructure programs throughout the U.S. and around the world. Our employees collaborate seamlessly among 50+ offices and gain valuable hands-on experience that fosters career growth. Langan culture is entrepreneurial from advancing innovative technical solutions, to participating in robust training and knowledge sharing, to making progressive change within the communities we live and work.
Consistently ranked among the top ten "Best Firms to Work For" and Engineering News-Record's top 50 firms worldwide, Langan attracts and retains the best talent in the industry. Employees thrive at Langan, a firm that fosters an inclusive and supportive work environment for all; prioritizes wellbeing, health, and safety; encourages volunteerism and philanthropy; offers workplace flexibility, along with carbon-neutral office spaces; and empowers individuals to contribute their skills and knowledge to make impactful contributions.
Job Summary
Langan is seeking an Archaeologist to join its collaborative team in California on an on-call basis. This individual will serve a key function in providing services related to the roles of Principal Investigator, Project Manager, and Crew Lead, and will assist the Cultural Resource Practice Director in the development and achievement of practice goals, continual product service and fiscal growth, and geographic expansion. In this role, you will have the opportunity to work with top industry leadership on a complex and diverse portfolio of environmental projects in a continuous learning environment.
Job Responsibilities
  • Manage complex projects and assigned staff for successful execution of project components/tasks and ensuring scope and costs documented in project contract are followed correctly and efficiently;
  • Assist in identifying and hiring staff;
  • Prepare service products including assessment, evaluation, data recovery and monitoring reports; mitigation plans and training pamphlets; research designs and work plans; and additional products as needed;
  • Develop and prepare a variety of standard logs and field forms;
  • Lead tasks associated with the preparation, review and modification of various documents including reports, specifications, plans, cost estimates and research designs, work plans, etc;
  • Perform and manage tasks within specific budgets and schedules. Track task and project budgets and manage client accounts;
  • Interact in a professional manner with client and subcontractor representatives in close collaboration with supervisor. Concisely explain services to clients, agency staff and Langan staff in laymen terms;
  • Supervise, schedule, and coordinate the work of staff archaeologists, paleontologists, and architectural historians; as-needed/on-call staff, interns and others who assist in specific assignments;
  • Review the work product prepared by staff prior to internal management, agency and client submittal;
  • Coordinate and perform field inspection services, as needed;
  • Mentor, coach, and train staff. Develop training materials as requested;
  • Collaborate with company, practice and office team members on project tasks and assignments;
  • Assist other work groups within the same or different office locations and/or within the same or different disciplines on an as-needed basis;
  • Participate in cross-discipline training and assist with projects outside one's own discipline;
  • Remain current on cultural resource standard practices, guidelines, regulations, and best management practices and attend training to expand knowledge and skills; and
  • Actively participate in internal Health and Safety training and has strong commitment to Health and Safety in the workplace and field.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Archaeology, Anthropology or closely-related field; Graduate degree (M.A. or Ph.D.) a plus;
  • Register of Professional Archaeologist (RPA) a plus;
  • 6+ years professional experience in Archaeology;
  • Demonstrated experience preparing archaeological studies, reports, and plans, and successfully designing and leading archaeological fieldwork;
  • Demonstrated laboratory and technical analysis expertise;
  • Strong, concise writing, research, and data management skills;
  • Understanding of and practical experience in regulatory requirements specifically Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and have the ability to clearly communicate federal, state, and local regulatory requirements to clients;
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to concisely explain services in laymen terms.;
  • Experience in developing, communicating, and promoting services for business development purposes a plus;
  • Strong attention to detail and excellent analytical and judgment capabilities;
  • Ability to multi-task effectively and work well individually and within groups;
  • Ability and strong commitment to oversee, coach and train staff;
  • Able to safely and efficiently complete strenuous physical labor including but not limited to walking up to 16 miles a day, lifting 50 pounds and hand-digging;
  • Possess a valid driver's license in good standing and reliable transportation access to remote job site locations; and
  • Availability to work overtime and occasionally work hours during evenings and weekends, when needed.

Langan provides a rich array of programs and benefits to help its employees advance their careers and enhance the quality of their lives. Our comprehensive compensation package includes: full-time employment company paid medical, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, and paid pregnancy disability leave; 401(k)/Roth with company match; paid time off including parental and military leave; employee referral and professional license bonuses; and educational reimbursement.
Langan offers employee resource groups; flexible work schedules; extensive training; wellness programs; buddy and mentoring programs; and much more!
Langan is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. We believe that an inclusive workplace is essential for the well-being and success of our employees.
Certain US jurisdictions require Langan to include an estimate of salary or hourly ranges. The estimated range for this role is: $43-63/hour. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as related work experience, location, market conditions, education/training, certifications and other credentials, as well as applicable knowledge and skills. Certain roles may be eligible for overtime and participation in the firm's annual bonus and performance review program. Bonuses are discretionary and based on individual job performance and the profitability of the firm. Employees are also eligible to receive up to 20 days of paid vacation time, 10 days of paid sick time and 10 paid holidays throughout the year. Eligibility and actual paid time off may vary based on local law and factors such as hours worked, related work experience and level.

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