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Full Time Archaeological Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This is a full-time position with benefits. Cultural Resources is part of our Environmental ... and Conservation Tennessee SHPO Standards and Guidelines for Archaeological Resource Management ...

This is a full-time position with benefits. Cultural Resources is part of our Environmental ... and Conservation Tennessee SHPO Standards and Guidelines for Archaeological Resource Management ...

$42K - $57K/yr

... Full-Time (Salaried) Location: Lee, Virginia Categories: Public Safety, Applied Sciences and ... Natural Resource Spec II Hiring Range: $42,000 - $57,680 Pay Band: 3 Agency: Dept Conservation ...

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Full Time Archaeological Conservation information

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$31.5K

$60.7K

$97K

How much do full time archaeological conservation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time archaeological conservation 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 full time archaeological conservation?

Full time archaeological conservation involves the preservation, stabilization, and restoration of artifacts, structures, and sites uncovered during archaeological excavations. Professionals in this field work to prevent further deterioration of cultural heritage materials, often using specialized techniques and scientific methods. Their work ensures that historical objects and sites are protected for future generations and accessible for research, education, and public display. Full time roles typically include responsibilities such as analyzing materials, documenting conservation processes, and collaborating with archaeologists, museums, and heritage organizations.

What is the difference between Full Time Archaeological Conservation vs Full Time Archaeological Field Technician?

AspectFull Time Archaeological ConservationFull Time Archaeological Field Technician
CredentialsDegree in archaeology, conservation, or related field; certifications in conservation techniquesHigh school diploma or associate degree; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, conservation studios, museums, sometimes on-site at excavation locationsPrimarily on-site at excavation or survey locations, outdoor work
Employer & Industry UsageMuseums, cultural heritage agencies, conservation labsArchaeological firms, research institutions, field excavation projects

Full Time Archaeological Conservation focuses on preserving and restoring artifacts in labs or museums, requiring specialized conservation skills. In contrast, Full Time Archaeological Field Technicians assist in excavation and survey work on-site, often with less formal education but more outdoor work. Both roles are essential in archaeology but differ in environment, skills, and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Archaeological Conservator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Archaeological Conservator, you need a background in conservation, archaeology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and practical experience with artifact preservation. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, conservation materials, and documentation software is typically required, and professional certifications like those from the American Institute for Conservation can be advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help conservators effectively assess, treat, and document artifacts while collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. These skills ensure the accurate preservation of cultural heritage and support successful project outcomes in museum or field settings.

What are some common challenges faced in a full-time archaeological conservation role?

Full-time archaeological conservators often work with fragile artifacts that require meticulous care and specialized techniques to preserve. Challenges can include dealing with unexpected material degradation, adhering to strict ethical guidelines, and working within limited budgets or resources. Additionally, conservators regularly collaborate with archaeologists, curators, and other specialists, which requires strong communication and problem-solving skills to develop effective conservation strategies. Balancing fieldwork and laboratory responsibilities can also be demanding, but it offers a dynamic and rewarding work environment.
More about Full Time Archaeological Conservation jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Archaeological Conservation jobs? The most popular types of Archaeological Conservation jobs are:
Project Archaeologist

Project Archaeologist

TERRACON

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Terracon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 117 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 58 rated business consultants


Job description


Job Description:
General Responsibilities:
Project Archeologist / Principal Investigator to work in our Nashville, TN office under the direction of the Senior Archaeologist. This is a full-time position with benefits.
Cultural Resources is part of our Environmental Planning group, which also includes NEPA Planning and full-service Natural Resources capabilities. Our team works collaboratively with these and other Environmental practice areas to support Terracon's regional, statewide, and national client base. As a Project Archeologist / Principal Investigator, you will work closely with our Senior Archaeologist [KC1] to supervise, mentor, and help support the professional growth of our cultural resources team. This team includes full- and part-time employees at various stages of career development. You will support our team's continued growth through expanded market share and successful project delivery. You will be a leader in understanding and supporting Terracon's safety culture and expectations. You will play an important role in helping support proposal development and project delivery in our region and across Tennessee with opportunities to work in other regions of the U.S. You may be asked to help support business development activities with office and department leadership.
Responsibilities
Essential Roles and Responsibilities:
• Follow safety rules, guidelines, and standards. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
• Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on projects.
  • Responsible for conducting fieldwork and writing more complicated reports for testing and data recovery projects.

• Manages a field crew and ensures that Field Technicians and Crew Chiefs are performing fieldwork to the highest standards.
• Serves as Principal Investigator (PI) on survey, testing, and small data recovery projects.
• Conducts archival research or field documentation and ensures the team is recording appropriate information or conducting appropriate analyses.
• Prepare proposals, methodologies, and research designs for various types and phases of archeological projects.
• Maintain and provide QA/QC on field documentation and paperwork.
• Oversee work performed by field and laboratory technicians, under the direction of the Senior Archaeologist.
• Support other non-archeological Environmental Planning projects, tasks, and activities as assigned.
• Serves as a Subject Matter Expert on projects in preparation of becoming an Authorized Project Reviewer.
Qualifications
Requirements
• Graduate degree (MA, MSc, PhD) in Anthropology, Archaeology, or related discipline and a minimum of 5-7 years of experience in the practice.
• Working knowledge of the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Tennessee SHPO Standards and Guidelines for Archaeological Resource Management Studies , Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and other pertinent State and Federal legislation.
• Experience with writing technical reports that meet and exceed regulatory requirements and standards in the southeast.
• Ability to direct staff technicians regarding data collection, preparation of figures and maps, and report production. Ability to mentor and supervise junior staff.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely using both written and verbal skills.
• Ability to multi-task within flexible/fluid schedules and project needs.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks such as lifting and walking on uneven surfaces carrying at least 20 lbs. of equipment, and ability to work in extreme (hot/cold) weather conditions.
• Ability to travel for overnight (including multiple days away) work assignments.
• Ability to pass drug screening.
• Valid U.S. driver's license, with acceptable violation history.
Preferred:
  • Experience with ArcGIS and digital field recording tools and platforms.
  • Membership in statewide professional associations such as the Tennessee Council of Professional Archaeologists, and/or other evidence of professional engagement in the larger community.
  • Previous experience preparing proposals, building budgets, and understanding and managing project finances.

• Previous experience with and understanding of curation procedures and requirements according to standards within Tennessee and the surrounding region (e.g. Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana).
• Experience and technical familiarity with multiple artifact and/or historic resource categories commonly encountered in the southeast
About Us
Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.
Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
About the Team
Our national environmental team helps our clients do the right thing for their projects, and for our planet. Our professionals include environmental architects, archaeologists, biologists, engineers, geologists, historians, industrial hygienists, planners, and scientists. Working together in the field, office, or lab, we help guide clients through the steps and processes to address environmental challenges and move their projects forward as quickly, safely, and sustainably as possible. With services including site assessment, planning and permitting including cultural and natural resources, sustainability and resiliency, regulatory compliance, and industrial hygiene and safety, we're at the forefront of helping clients succeed and communities thrive.

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