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Entry Level Archeology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position is considered entry level and hourly. Part-time roles are intended to be flexible in schedule and as needed; students who have completed their archaeological field school training are ...

This position is considered entry level and hourly. Part-time roles are intended to be flexible in schedule and as needed; students who have completed their archaeological field school training are ...

On Call Field Archaeologist

Denver, CO · On-site

$23.13 - $31.78/hr

... entry-level technical assistance on various preservation and environmental issues. * Generate ... Archaeological field school or similar archaeological field experience. * 0-2 years of ...

On Call Field Archaeologists

Denver, CO · On-site

$34.86 - $49.86/hr

... entry-level technical assistance on various preservation and environmental issues. * Generate ... Archaeological field school or similar archaeological field experience. * 5-7 years of ...

... entry-level technical assistance on various preservation and environmental issues. * Generate ... Archaeological field school or similar archaeological field experience. * 0-2 years of ...

On Call Field Archaeologists

Denver, CO · On-site

$34.86 - $49.86/hr

... entry-level technical assistance on various preservation and environmental issues. * Generate ... Archaeological field school or similar archaeological field experience. * 5-7 years of ...

This position is considered entry level and hourly. Part-time roles are intended to be flexible in schedule and as needed; students who have completed their archaeological field school training are ...

... entry-level technical assistance on various preservation and environmental issues. * Generate ... Archaeological field school or similar archaeological field experience. * 0-2 years of ...

On Call Field Archaeologist

Denver, CO · On-site

$23.13 - $31.78/hr

... entry-level technical assistance on various preservation and environmental issues. * Generate ... Archaeological field school or similar archaeological field experience. * 0-2 years of ...

Joining Terracon as an Entry-Level Environmental Technician is a great opportunity to begin your ... Our professionals include environmental architects, archaeologists, biologists, engineers ...

Environmental Technician I

Bismarck, ND · On-site

$19.50 - $23.50/hr

Joining Terracon as an Entry-Level Environmental Technician is a great opportunity to begin your ... Our professionals include environmental architects, archaeologists, biologists, engineers ...

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Entry Level Archeology information

See salary details

$31.5K

$60.7K

$97K

How much do entry level archeology jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level archeology in the United States is $60,710.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level archaeologist?

Entry-level archaeology jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the field, often recent graduates or those with minimal professional experience. These roles typically involve assisting with fieldwork, such as excavating sites, recording findings, and conducting site surveys. Entry-level archaeologists may also help process artifacts in laboratories, conduct research, and perform basic analysis under the supervision of experienced archaeologists. These positions provide valuable on-the-job training and experience, forming a crucial starting point for a career in archaeology.

What types of fieldwork and laboratory tasks can I expect as an entry level archaeologist?

As an entry-level archaeologist, you will frequently participate in a variety of fieldwork activities such as site surveys, excavation, and artifact recovery, often working outdoors in diverse environments. In addition to fieldwork, you'll likely assist with laboratory tasks, including cleaning, cataloging, and analyzing artifacts, as well as recording data and preparing reports. Collaboration is common, as you'll work closely with supervisors, experienced archaeologists, and sometimes specialists like historians or geologists. This hands-on experience helps you gain a well-rounded understanding of archaeological methodologies and can open doors for future advancement within the field.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Archaeologist, you generally need a bachelor’s degree in archaeology, anthropology, or a related field, along with foundational knowledge in fieldwork and research methods. Familiarity with GIS software, mapping tools, and standard excavation equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong written and verbal communication skills help individuals excel in both field and laboratory environments. These skills and qualities are essential for accurate data collection, effective collaboration, and contributing to successful archaeological projects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Archeology vs Entry Level Paleontology?

AspectEntry Level ArcheologyEntry Level Paleontology
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Archaeology, Anthropology, or related fieldBachelor's in Paleontology, Geology, or related field
Work EnvironmentField excavations, museums, research labsField digs, museums, research institutions
Employer & IndustryUniversities, government agencies, museumsUniversities, museums, research centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Archeology and Entry Level Paleontology share similarities in required education, work environments, and industry usage. Both roles involve fieldwork, research, and museum work, often requiring related degrees. The main difference lies in their focus: archeology studies human history through artifacts, while paleontology examines prehistoric life through fossils. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the best fit for their interests and qualifications.

How do I start a career in entry level archaeology?

To start a career in entry-level archaeology, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree in archaeology, anthropology, or a related field. Gaining fieldwork experience through internships or volunteer opportunities and developing skills in excavation, surveying, and data recording are essential steps. Certifications such as CPR or first aid can also be beneficial for fieldwork safety.

How to become an entry level archaeologist with no experience?

To become an entry-level archaeologist, gaining a bachelor's degree in archaeology, anthropology, or a related field is essential. Volunteering on excavation projects, developing skills in mapping and surveying, and obtaining certifications like CPR or first aid can improve job prospects; familiarity with tools such as GIS software is also beneficial.

Is it easy to get a job in entry level archaeology?

Entry level archaeology jobs are competitive and often require relevant education, such as a bachelor's degree in archaeology or a related field, along with fieldwork experience. Gaining skills in excavation, survey techniques, and familiarity with archaeological tools can improve employment prospects, but opportunities may be limited and vary by region and demand.
More about Entry Level Archeology jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Archeology jobs?

The most popular types of Archeology jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Archeology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Archeology jobs include:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Archeology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,710 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

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Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

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Job description

About the opportunity

SWCA's Environmental Consultants is seeking multiple Staff Archaeologists to join our Wyoming/Montana office based in Sheridan, WY. Hiring will be for temporary positions to assist with upcoming cultural resources management work across Wyoming, Montana, and the surrounding region.

Under the supervision of a Cultural Resources Lead, this position will perform office and field tasks while working with and supervising crew members. In this role, you will assist a variety of office and field-based tasks. Office tasks include laboratory work, the preparation of site forms, and technical reports. Field tasks include managing all aspects of fieldwork, supervising one or more crews of archaeological technicians during survey, site recording, monitoring, or excavation projects.

This is a temporary, hourly, non-exempt (eligible for overtime) field-based assignment, with variable hours. This assignment is anticipated to last six months, with the possibility of extension based on project needs.

This requisition can hire at three levels -

  • Cultural Resources Technician - Typically an entry level role with a bachelor's degree preferred
  • Assistant Staff Archaeologist -- Typically with at least one year of relevant industry experience and expertise preferred; relevant bachelor's degree required
  • Staff Archaeologist - Typically with at least one to two years of relevant industry experience and expertise required; two or more years preferred; relevant master's degree required.

Application deadline: Our team will begin reviewing applications immediately, and interviews will be scheduled with qualified candidates on a rolling basis. The application process will remain open until we have received a robust pool of qualified candidates. Once we have identified suitable individuals, we may close the application process without prior notice. We appreciate the time and effort invested by all applicants and will carefully consider each submission.

What you will accomplish
  • Assist with office-based tasks, including laboratory work, performing literature reviews, research, site form preparation, and technical report preparation, as needed;
  • Work independently in a responsible manner, within defined schedules, and meet deadlines;
  • Communicate effectively when reporting to Project Archaeologists, Principal Investigators, clients, and client representatives in the field, such as land agents, to facilitate successful project planning and logistics;
  • Ensure that appropriate preliminary research is conducted and organized before fieldwork, and that necessary equipment, staff, and other resources are ready for fieldwork;
  • Accurately identify historic-era and precontact artifacts and features, and train less experienced field crew members in their identification.
  • Adheres to the safety program and looks out for the safety of others, promptly communicating and mitigating safety hazards.
  • As a staff archaeologist, depending upon the project, an element of your job may be to independently supervise an archaeological survey crew in the field. This includes:
    • independently assigning and directing the activities of others on behalf of SWCA, often in remote areas without immediate guidance from senior managers, to ensure quality and on-time delivery;
    • ensuring that employees understand their responsibilities and delegated tasks and being held accountable if crew members under your supervision are not performing their activities correctly, productively, and safely;
    • serving as a conduit of communication between employees and senior managers, including communicating issues to relevant senior managers;
    • receiving and resolving complaints from employees in the field; and
    • monitoring team productivity and providing timely performance feedback, including deciding when disciplinary action is necessary and delivering discipline.

Experience and qualifications for success

Minimum Qualifications:

  • A master's degree in anthropology, archaeology, or a closely related field
  • Two (2) years of experience conducting field assessments with a cultural resources focus
  • Current valid driver's license and the ability to safely operate a 4wd vehicle on rugged, backcountry roads
  • Ability to travel to a location, walk and conduct fieldwork for long hours, sometimes in inclement weather, rugged terrain, and ability to carry equipment and supplies weighing up to 40 pounds
  • Ability and willingness to work at least 75% of the time in the field.

Preferred qualifications:

  • An accredited Field School Certification.
  • Two (2) years of experience conducting a wide range of field methodologies, including archaeological survey, testing, excavation, methodology and/or monitoring.
  • Meets the qualifications of a Secretary of the Interior Qualified Archaeologist
  • CPR and First Aid certified.
  • Can pass drug testing and alcohol screening as some projects require such screenings

Why Work at SWCA:

SWCA Environmental Consultants is a growing employee-owned firm, providing a full-spectrum of environmental services. Our Vision (the North Star) is to make SWCA the best workplace and industry leader in sustainability, bringing sound science and creative solutions to global environmental challenges while maintaining a dedication to employee-ownership. We live our core values: we collaborate as #OneSWCA; we are #AlwaysLearning, we #NeverSettle, and we #GiveBack.

We are 100% employee-owned, and we build our success together. With offices across the United States, SWCA is one of the largest environmental compliance firms and ranks among Engineering News-Record's Top 200 Environmental Firms. We offer a supportive, team-oriented work environment and competitive wages and benefits, including an 100% employee stock ownership plan (retirement).

At SWCA, we support our team members in developing their careers to make them leaders in their industry. Our Career Landscape initiative is a process and guide designed to help develop chart rewarding career paths for employees at SWCA. We encourage professional conference attendance, internal and external professional development and training programs, education reimbursement, and bonuses for publications meeting certain criteria. All regular status employees are eligible to participate in SWCA medical, dental, vision, employee assistance, wellness, life and disability plans, and are eligible to participate in the SWCA 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan and Trust.

If you need assistance accessing SWCA's website, completing the online application, or require accommodations at any point during the hiring process due to a disability, please contact us at accommodations@swca.com or call 1-480-581-5378. We're committed to providing an inclusive and supportive experience for all candidates. This contact information is specifically for accommodation requests; other inquiries will not receive a response.

SWCA is committed to salary equity and salary transparency for all its employees. In alignment with this commitment, SWCA posts good faith pay ranges in all its advertised job postings to promote pay equity and transparency.

An employee in this Wyoming/Montana position can expect an hourly rate pay rate of:

  • Cultural Resources Technician: $19.31-$25.49
  • Assistant Staff Archaeologist: $21.63-$27.81
  • Staff Archaeologist: $23.95-$30.64

Actual pay within this range may depend on experience, qualifications, geographic location, client requirements where applicable, and other factors permitted by law.

SWCA continues to invest deeply in career development programs, delivering our award-winning Career Landscape support resources to accelerate the growth of our staff. We recognize the valuable skills and experiences our internal team members bring to SWCA's continued success. Qualified internal candidates are encouraged to apply and will be seriously considered for this position. We believe in promoting from within, where possible, providing our existing employees with compelling opportunities to advance their careers.

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#IND-SWCA