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Associate Archaeologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Los Angeles, CA

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Job Summary The Research Assistant assists the Associate Director of Dissemination and External ... Background in Pre-Columbian art history or archaeology, or Latin American studies * 0-2 years ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Archaeologist information

See California salary details

$20.2K

$43.6K

$71.6K

How much do associate archaeologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate archaeologist in California is $43,582.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27,100.00 and $55,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate archaeologist do?

An Associate Archaeologist assists in researching, excavating, and analyzing artifacts to understand past human cultures. They often work under the supervision of senior archaeologists, helping with field surveys, site recording, artifact cataloging, and preparing reports. Their responsibilities may also include ensuring compliance with cultural resource management regulations. This role is typically an early to mid-career position, requiring a relevant degree and some field experience.

What are some common challenges faced by associate archaeologists during fieldwork, and how can they be addressed?

Associate Archaeologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and the need to carefully document fragile artifacts during fieldwork. Managing these challenges requires flexibility, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to safety protocols. Effective communication with team members and supervisors is essential for addressing unexpected issues and ensuring that excavation or survey work remains on schedule. Adapting quickly and staying detail-oriented can help Associate Archaeologists contribute successfully to project goals.

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

To thrive as an Associate Archaeologist, you need a background in archaeology or anthropology, fieldwork experience, and often a relevant degree such as a BA or MA. Familiarity with GIS software, artifact cataloging databases, and compliance with cultural resource management (CRM) protocols is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective written and verbal communication skills help you excel in both field and office environments. These abilities are crucial for accurate data collection, regulatory compliance, and successful collaboration on archaeological projects.

What is the difference between Associate Archaeologist vs Field Archaeologist?

AspectAssociate ArchaeologistField Archaeologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in archaeology or related field; some roles may require fieldwork experienceBachelor's degree in archaeology or related field; extensive fieldwork experience often preferred
Work EnvironmentOffice-based tasks, research, report writing, and assisting in fieldworkPrimarily on-site excavations, survey work, and field data collection
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by archaeological firms, museums, and research institutions for entry to mid-level rolesCommonly used in excavation projects, cultural resource management, and field surveys

The main difference between an Associate Archaeologist and a Field Archaeologist lies in their focus and work environment. Associate Archaeologists often handle research, report writing, and assist in fieldwork from an office setting, while Field Archaeologists primarily conduct on-site excavations and surveys. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the Field Archaeologist role emphasizes hands-on field experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Archaeologist jobs in California? The most popular types of Archaeologist jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Associate Archaeologist jobs? Cities in California with the most Associate Archaeologist job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Archaeologist job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,582 per year, or $21 per hour.

Associate (Adjunct) Faculty - Anthropology

Feather River College

Quincy, CA โ€ข On-site

$60.08 - $92.26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Classification Information
Classification Title
Classification Code
Rank
Position Information
Position Title
Associate (Adjunct) Faculty - Anthropology
Position Number
Tenure Information
Job Description
To teach a range of college-level courses in the discipline of Anthropology, on campus.
Required Qualifications
Master's in anthropology or archaeology
OR
Bachelor's in either of the above
AND
Master's in sociology, biological sciences, forensic
sciences, genetics or paleontology
OR the equivalent
Desirable Qualifications
Teaching Experience
Preferred Qualifications
Compliance Physical Characteristics
The physical abilities involved in the performance of essential duties with or without reasonable accommodations are:
Physical Characteristics
Salary Range
$60.08 - $92.26 / Hourly
Essential Duties
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
Is there an approved budget for this position?
Yes
Position End Date (if temporary)
Open Date
04/28/2026
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
Individuals with disabilities requiring reasonable accommodations in the application, testing or interviewing process must contact the Human Resources Office.
All travel and interview expenses are the responsibility of the candidate.
FRCCD reserves the right to cancel, revise or re-announce this position. All grant/categorical funded positions are contingent upon continued funding.
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Advertising Summary