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Associate Archaeologist Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Associate Archaeologist information

See Washington salary details

$23.2K

$50K

$82.1K

How much do associate archaeologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate archaeologist in Washington is $50,016.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,100.00 and $64,000.00 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 Washington? The most popular types of Archaeologist jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Associate Archaeologist jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Associate Archaeologist job openings:

On Call Archaeological/Cultural Resource Technician

langan

Arlington, VA

$21 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Langan rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 446 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 40+ 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 On Call Archaeological/Cultural Resource Technicians of varying experience levels to join its collaborative team in the Northeast. These individuals will serve a key function by supporting environmental and cultural resource project managers in conducting an array of both field and desktop tasks. This role provides the opportunity to work with a diverse team of top-notch professionals in a variety of geographic areas and regulatory programs. You will collaborate and learn from our multi-disciplinary team of cultural resource, biology, site/civil, geotechnical, survey, and landscape architect professionals on a wide breadth of projects. Langan is committed to providing opportunities for technicians of all levels to gain experience and expand their skill set.

Job Responsibilities
  • Conduct cultural resource pedestrian surveys;
  • Conduct background research at historical societies, museums, archives and/or repositories, etc.;
  • Perform cultural resource recordation and documentation;
  • Conduct subsurface absence/presence testing;
  • Conduct data recovery excavations;
  • Perform construction monitoring to ensure compliance with agency mitigation measures and ensure appropriate response and treatment of cultural resources, as necessary;
  • Conduct records searches at CHRIS information Centers;
  • Conduct laboratory analysis, catalog, and organize cultural resource artifacts;
  • Prepare technical report sections;
  • Complete work logs in a timely and accurate manner;
  • Assemble and maintain field equipment and systems; inspect equipment and troubleshoot as necessary; and
  • Perform other duties as requested.
Qualifications
  • Associate's, Bachelor's or Master's degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, History, or related field. Individuals with a High School diploma or equivalent will be considered for certain tasks based on individual experience and skills;
  • An understanding of and practical experience with the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA), Native American Grave Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), and related state and local regulations and guidelines preferred;
  • Hazwoper Certification, maintenance of annual physical and respirator fit test, annual Hazwoper 8 hr. re-certification preferred;
  • 3+ years' prior related experience preferred;
  • Familiarity with GIS and AutoCAD preferred;
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Adobe, Nuance, Word and SharePoint preferred;
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to take direction well;
  • Ability to multi-task effectively;
  • Excellent analytical and judgment capabilities;
  • Ability to work well individually and within groups;
  • Committed to working within and contributing to the team assigned;
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills;
  • Valid driver's license in good standing;
  • Ability to travel to various job sites and spend most, if not all the workday on-site, as required; and
  • Ability to conduct physical labor sometimes in inclement weather conditions, regularly in rugged terrain, and be able to carry equipment and supplies weighing up to 40 pounds.

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: $22 - $35/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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