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Independent Contractor Archaeology Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Senior Archaeological Technician

San Antonio, TX

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Clean and maintain field and lab equipment and supplies. Assist other Terracon environmental ... Bachelor's degree in Archaeology/Anthropology or related field and 2 years related experience.

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

Work effectively as part of a team or independently in a variety of field conditions, often under ... Knowledge of California and/or Great Basin archaeology. Your Credentials and Experience Bachelor ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

Work effectively as part of a team or independently in a variety of field conditions, often under ... Knowledge of California and/or Great Basin archaeology. Your Credentials and Experience Bachelor ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

Fresno, CA · On-site

Work effectively as part of a team or independently in a variety of field conditions, often under ... Knowledge of California and/or Great Basin archaeology. Your Credentials and Experience Bachelor ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

Ventura, CA · On-site

Work effectively as part of a team or independently in a variety of field conditions, often under ... Knowledge of California and/or Great Basin archaeology. Your Credentials and Experience Bachelor ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

Irvine, CA · On-site

Work effectively as part of a team or independently in a variety of field conditions, often under ... Knowledge of California and/or Great Basin archaeology. Your Credentials and Experience Bachelor ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

Pasadena, CA · On-site

Work effectively as part of a team or independently in a variety of field conditions, often under ... Knowledge of California and/or Great Basin archaeology. Your Credentials and Experience Bachelor ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

San Diego, CA · On-site

Work effectively as part of a team or independently in a variety of field conditions, often under ... Knowledge of California and/or Great Basin archaeology. Your Credentials and Experience Bachelor ...

Stantec

Archaeologist (On-Call)

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

Work effectively as part of a team or independently in a variety of field conditions, often under ... Knowledge of California and/or Great Basin archaeology. Your Credentials and Experience Bachelor ...

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Independent Contractor Archaeology Lab information

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How much do independent contractor archaeology lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor archaeology lab in the United States is $22.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Independent Contractor in an Archaeology Lab, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor in an Archaeology Lab, you need strong analytical skills, a background in archaeology or anthropology, and experience with artifact processing and documentation, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with lab management software, GIS tools, and digital imaging systems is typically required. Attention to detail, self-motivation, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate, efficient analysis and reporting, which are crucial for supporting archaeological research and compliance with project requirements.

What are some typical challenges faced by independent contractor archaeologists working in lab settings, and how can they be managed?

Independent contractor archaeologists in lab environments often face challenges such as adapting to varied project protocols, managing fluctuating workloads, and quickly integrating into different team cultures. To manage these, it's helpful to maintain strong organizational skills, communicate proactively with project leads, and stay updated on standard lab procedures and technologies. Flexibility and a willingness to learn new methodologies are also key for efficiently handling diverse artifact types and data systems encountered across multiple assignments.

What is an Independent Contractor Archaeology Lab?

An Independent Contractor Archaeology Lab is a specialized facility operated by professionals who are not directly employed by a university, museum, or government agency, but instead work on a contract basis for various clients. These labs are responsible for analyzing, cataloging, and conserving archaeological materials recovered from field projects. Independent contractor labs often support cultural resource management (CRM) firms, academic researchers, and public agencies by providing expert analysis, such as artifact identification, soil analysis, and report preparation. Their work helps ensure artifacts are properly preserved and that findings are accurately documented for both regulatory compliance and scientific research.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Archaeology Lab vs Archaeology Technician?

AspectIndependent Contractor Archaeology LabArchaeology Technician
CredentialsVaries; often requires archaeology or related degrees, certifications optionalTypically requires a degree or coursework in archaeology or anthropology
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, project-based, often in labs or field sitesEmployed by institutions or contractors, working in labs or field sites
Employer & Industry UsageFreelance or contracted services for archaeology labs or firmsFull-time or seasonal staff within archaeological projects or institutions

While both roles involve archaeological work, an Independent Contractor Archaeology Lab operates independently, providing specialized lab services on a project basis. An Archaeology Technician is typically employed by organizations and performs field or lab tasks as part of a team. The key difference lies in employment status and work setup, with contractors offering flexible, freelance services and technicians working within established institutions.

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Independent Contractor Archaeology Lab jobs near you

Archaeology Field Technician - GULF Coast

True Environmental

Houston, TX

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Sundance Consultants, a part of True Environmental and its partner firms, have united their strengths to establish the nation's premier environmental and engineering services consulting firm. This powerhouse organization offers an extensive range of services aimed at revolutionizing the built environment and preserving the natural one. Its diverse expertise encompasses environmental remediation, urban planning, engineering iconic coastal and marine structures, developing sustainable energy sources, and pioneering resource extraction methods. Explore further at Sundance-inc.com and True-Environmental.com to discover the full scope of our capabilities. 

This is an on-call Temporary field technician position who will be directly responsible for fulfilling all duties and responsibilities associated with archaeological fieldwork throughout the Golf Coast States, (Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida) .   
 
 
The pay for this role is $20-25/hr, based on experience.
What you'll do
  • Conducting archaeological pedestrian surveys
  • Archaeological data collection (GPS, photographs, site forms, site sketch, artifact sketch)
  • Subsurface testing or artifact identification
  • Measuring and fully recording artifacts
  • Preparing high-quality field notes
  • Working as a team member, or independently, as the job may require
  • Other duties as requested
Minimum Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree in Archaeology, Anthropology or related field
  • At least 6 months of archaeological field experience or field school experience
  • Experience performing archaeological survey and excavation
  • Ability to work in diverse, often difficult terrain, that will involve hiking long distances to and from project areas (up to 5 to 10 miles per day)
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work well with others and be a proactive part of a project team
  • Excellent attention to detail and detailed note taking skills
  • A valid driver's license
  • Ability to operate GPS units and navigate using USGS maps/aerial photography, and compass preferred.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Must understand and comply with company safety standards
  • Access to a laptop or computer to complete timesheets, expense reports, and office tasks
  • As a federal contractor that is subject to Executive Order 14042, Sundance requires all employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of employment, subject to accommodations for bona fide medical and religious exemptions.
  • Ability to lift and move materials and equipment up to 50 -pounds on occasion.
  • This role will require the successful completion of fit for work testing which includes Drug & Alcohol testing
Work Environment
  • This is a temporary, part-time, non-exempt, hourly wage position. Approximately 45 to 50 hours per week.
  • Overnight and day travel as needed to support field work.
  • Ability to work outdoors in variable weather conditions, including inclement weather.
  • Per Diem is often on a GSA rate and is based on the location of the fieldwork. Per Diem is generally never less than $50 per day.
  • Hotel or lodging is covered by Sundance and is not part of per diem
  • Some projects may require long-term remote camping to be executed. 
  • Opportunities for post-field office work are often available; however these are at the Project Field Director and Principal Investigator's discretion. Interest in a temporary post-field office position should be communicated to the field director or crew chief. 
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
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