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Contract Archaeology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Archaeology Technician

Laurel, MD · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

We offer individual occupancy hotel rooms with per diem (frequently receipt based by contract ... Archaeological field experience in Virginia or Mid-Atlantic preferred. Typical office environment ...

Archaeology Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$40K - $54K/yr

We offer individual occupancy hotel rooms with per diem (frequently receipt based by contract ... Archaeological field experience in Virginia or Mid-Atlantic preferred. Typical office environment ...

Archaeologist

Rapid City, SD · On-site

$23.56 - $26.50/hr

H Closing Date: 07/31/2026 The archaeologist in this position works closely with the Contracts Manager, generally on projects in Archaeological Research Center's (ARC's) contracts program. This ...

Archaeology Technician

Laurel, MD · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

We offer individual occupancy hotel rooms with per diem (frequently receipt based by contract ... Archaeological field experience in Virginia or Mid-Atlantic preferred. Typical office environment ...

Archaeology Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$40K - $54K/yr

We offer individual occupancy hotel rooms with per diem (frequently receipt based by contract ... Archaeological field experience in Virginia or Mid-Atlantic preferred. Typical office environment ...

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Contract Archaeology information

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$32K

$73.2K

$112K

How much do contract archaeology jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract archaeology in the United States is $73,187.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $88,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is contract archaeology?

Contract archaeology, also known as cultural resource management (CRM) archaeology, involves the investigation and preservation of archaeological sites that may be affected by construction or development projects. Archaeologists work on behalf of government agencies, private companies, or developers to ensure compliance with heritage laws and regulations. The goal is to identify, document, and sometimes excavate sites before they are altered or destroyed, balancing development needs with the protection of cultural heritage.

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

To thrive as a Contract Archaeologist, you need a solid background in archaeology or anthropology, often with a relevant degree and fieldwork experience. Familiarity with GIS software, GPS devices, mapping tools, and compliance with cultural resource management (CRM) regulations is typically required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate site assessments, regulatory compliance, and successful collaboration on projects with tight deadlines.

What are the typical challenges faced by contract archaeologists during fieldwork?

Contract archaeologists often encounter challenges such as working under tight project deadlines, adapting to varying weather conditions, and managing unexpected site discoveries. Fieldwork may require extended periods outdoors and travel to remote locations. Effective communication with project managers, construction crews, and regulatory agencies is crucial for ensuring compliance with legal and safety standards. Developing strong teamwork skills and maintaining meticulous documentation are essential for overcoming these common obstacles.
More about Contract Archaeology jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Archaeology jobs? Cities with the most Contract Archaeology job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Archaeology jobs? The most popular types of Archaeology jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Archaeology jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Archaeology jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Archaeology job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 24% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 53% Nights, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,187 per year, or $35.2 per hour.
Archaeology Crew Member

Archaeology Crew Member

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 21 days ago


University Of New Mexico rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

81st of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Archaeology Crew Member
Requisition ID
req34177
Working Title
Archaeology Crew Member
Position Grade
08
Position Summary
Participates as a member of an archaeology crew in locating, collecting, recording, and interpreting archaeological data during the survey, testing, and excavation phases of an archaeology project.
See the Position Description for additional information.
Conditions of Employment
  • Possession of a valid United States driver's license is a requirement for this job.
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or other relevant field; completion of a field school.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Field Research School
  • 1-2 years of experience in Archaeology
  • Excellent writing skills

Additional Requirements
Campus
Main - Albuquerque, NM
Department
Office of Contract Archeology (937C)
Employment Type
Staff
Staff Type
On-Call
Term End Date
Status
Non-Exempt
Pay
Hourly: $19.00 - $22.00
Benefits Eligible
This position is not benefits eligible
ERB Statement
As a condition of employment, eligible employees working greater than .25 FTE as determined by the New Mexico Education Retirement Act must make mandatory retirement contributions. For more information, review the Benefits Eligibility at a Glance grid.
Background Check Required
No
For Best Consideration Date
8/25/2025
Eligible for Remote Work
No
Eligible for Remote Work Statement
Application Instructions
Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.
Must have 1-2 years of experience in Archaeology. Must have completed a field research class. Must be physically fit to camp and be outdoors for long periods of time . You have to submit your degree paperwork before an interview will be scheduled.
Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions successfully pass a pre-employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3280.html. Refer to https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3200.html for a definition of Regular Staff.

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