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Director Archaeology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WSP

Senior Archaeologist

Tempe, AZ · On-site

BA/BS degree (MS/MA preferred) in Archaeology, Anthropology, or related field. * 5 - 7 + years of ... Ability to apply methods, techniques and practices used to direct archaeological and historic site ...

WSP

Senior Archaeologist

Tempe, AZ · On-site

BA/BS degree (MS/MA preferred) in Archaeology, Anthropology, or related field. * 5 - 7 + years of ... Ability to apply methods, techniques and practices used to direct archaeological and historic site ...

True Environmental

Archaeology Field Technician

$20 - $25/hr

Archaeological data collection (GPS, photographs, site forms, site sketch, artifact sketch ... Interest in a temporary post-field office position should be communicated to the field director or ...

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$172.5K

How much do director archaeology jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for director archaeology in the United States is $83,846.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $106,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the main challenges a director of archaeology typically faces when managing multiple excavation projects?

A Director of Archaeology often encounters the challenge of balancing limited resources—such as budgets, staff, and equipment—across several concurrent projects. Coordinating with interdisciplinary teams, navigating regulatory requirements, and ensuring proper documentation and preservation of findings are also key aspects of the role. Effective communication with stakeholders, including local communities and governmental agencies, is essential to address logistical or cultural concerns that may arise. Successfully managing these complexities requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and adaptability.

Is archaeology a stressful job?

Archaeology as a profession can be stressful due to project deadlines, fieldwork conditions, and funding constraints. It often requires physical effort, attention to detail, and adaptability to changing environments, which can contribute to job-related stress.

What does a director of archaeology do?

A Director of Archaeology oversees archaeological projects, managing teams of archaeologists and ensuring that excavations and research comply with legal and ethical standards. They are responsible for securing funding, developing research strategies, and liaising with government agencies, academic institutions, and the public. Their role often includes supervising the documentation, preservation, and analysis of archaeological finds, as well as contributing to publications and educational outreach. This position requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and in-depth knowledge of archaeological methods and regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of archaeology?

To thrive as a Director of Archaeology, you need advanced knowledge in archaeological theory and methods, a relevant graduate degree (often a PhD), and extensive fieldwork experience. Familiarity with GIS software, heritage management systems, and relevant permits or certifications (such as Registered Professional Archaeologist) is common. Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills are vital for overseeing multidisciplinary teams and engaging stakeholders. These skills ensure effective research, compliance with regulations, and the successful preservation and interpretation of cultural heritage.

What is the difference between Director Archaeology vs Archaeologist?

AspectDirector ArchaeologyArchaeologist
CredentialsBachelor's or master's degree; often requires experience in leadership rolesBachelor's or master's degree in archaeology or related field
Work EnvironmentLeadership in research projects, managing teams, overseeing budgetsFieldwork, lab analysis, research, and excavation activities
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, cultural resource firmsResearch institutions, museums, government agencies, private firms

The main difference is that a Director Archaeology oversees projects and teams, focusing on management and strategy, while an Archaeologist conducts fieldwork and research. Both roles require relevant education, but the Director typically has more experience and leadership responsibilities.

Is there a high demand for archaeologists?

The demand for archaeologists, including those in director roles, is generally steady but varies by region and funding availability. Employment is often linked to academic, government, and cultural resource management projects, with opportunities increasing as heritage preservation and environmental assessments grow in importance.
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Director Archaeology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Archaeology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,846 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Archaeology Field Technician

System One

Sioux Falls, SD • Remote

Contractor

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Archaeology Field Technician Location: Northern Plains Region (North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Montana) Job Type: Project-Based / Seasonal Project Duration: Approximately 2–3 months Schedule: Up to 6 days per week, 8–10 hour field days

Position Overview: We are seeking motivated Archaeology Field Technicians to support upcoming field projects across the Northern Plains region. Field Technicians will assist with archaeological surveys and field documentation for large-scale infrastructure projects. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy outdoor work, have a strong attention to detail, and are comfortable working in rugged environments as part of a collaborative field team.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct archaeological pedestrian surveys and shovel testing as directed by field supervisors

  • Identify and document cultural materials, features, and artifacts encountered in the field

  • Assist with mapping, site documentation, and field recording using established archaeological methods

  • Support survey teams in identifying lithic materials and potential cultural features

  • Maintain accurate field notes and documentation in accordance with project standards

  • Work collaboratively with team members, project managers, and specialists to ensure quality fieldwork and data collection

  • Follow safety protocols and project guidelines while working in remote outdoor environments

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Coursework or degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or a related field (preferred but not required)

  • Approximately 2+ years of archaeological field experience

  • Experience conducting surveys in the Northern Plains region

  • Familiarity with Northern Plains lithic material types and stone features is a strong plus

  • Experience working alongside Traditional Cultural Specialists or Tribal Historic Preservation Office (THPO) representatives is beneficial

  • Strong observational skills and attention to detail in field documentation

Physical & Field Requirements:

  • Ability to walk 5–10 miles per day over uneven terrain

  • Ability to work 8–10 hour field days, potentially 6 days per week

  • Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions

  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team and respectfully with individuals from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds

Project Details: Initial fieldwork is anticipated to run for approximately two months, with the possibility of an additional month of reroutes and ancillary surveys depending on project needs.

This is a great opportunity for field archaeologists who enjoy hands-on survey work and want to contribute to meaningful cultural resource projects across the Northern Plains. #M1

Ref: #275-Eng Kansas City