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Senior Archaeologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Staffingine LLC

Senior Archaeologist

Richmond, VA · On-site

Senior Archaeologist Job Location: Richmond, VA Job Type: Full-Time * Conducts archaeological field work with the ability to identify artifacts and determine the presence of archaeological sites.

TERRACON

Senior Archaeologist

Lenexa, KS · On-site

Terracon is seeking a Senior Archaeologist to provide technical leadership, mentorship, and strategic direction for a wide range of cultural resource projects. This role is ideal for a highly ...

NV5

Senior Archaeologist

Morristown, NJ · On-site +1

$65K/yr

NV5 is currently seeking a Senior Archaeologist to join our dynamic Cultural Resource Group at our Parsippany, NJ office. We are looking for highly motivated candidates with a minimum of 5 years of ...

NV5

Senior Archaeologist

Morristown, NJ · On-site

$65K/yr

NV5 is currently seeking a Senior Archaeologist to join our dynamic Cultural Resource Group at our Parsippany, NJ office. We are looking for highly motivated candidates with a minimum of 5 years of ...

TERRACON

Senior Archaeologist

Lenexa, KS · On-site

Terracon is seeking a Senior Archaeologist to provide technical leadership, mentorship, and strategic direction for a wide range of cultural resource projects. This role is ideal for a highly ...

Snyder & Associates

Senior Archaeologist

Ankeny, IA

As we continue to grow toward this mission, we are excited to add a Senior Archaeologist to our team. With thirteen office locations in five states, the communities we serve are the same places we ...

sealaska

Senior Archaeologist

Coolidge, AZ · On-site

Senior Archaeologist Job Summary: This is a senior level Archaeological position located in Coolidge, AZ , focusing on National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) compliance issues. This role will be ...

NV5

Senior Archaeologist

Morristown, NJ · On-site +1

$65K/yr

NV5 is currently seeking a Senior Archaeologist to join our dynamic Cultural Resource Group at our Parsippany, NJ office. We are looking for highly motivated candidates with a minimum of 5 years of ...

SNC-Lavalin

Sr Archaeologist

Tampa, FL · On-site

$64K - $107K/yr

Overview We are seeking a Sr Archaeologist to join our team in Tampa, FL. Your role * Serve as Principal Investigator on transportation, planning, and infrastructure projects: plan and lead fieldwork ...

sealaska

Senior Archaeologist

Coolidge, AZ

Senior Archaeologist Job Summary: This is a senior level Archaeological position located in Coolidge, AZ , focusing on National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) compliance issues. This role will be ...

WSP

Senior Archaeologist

Cottonwood Heights, UT

This Opportunity WSP USA Inc. is seeking a Senior Archaeologist for our Cultural Resources Group based in our Salt Lake City, Utah office. This individual will work with a multidisciplinary team of ...

WSP

Senior Archaeologist

Cottonwood Heights, UT · On-site

This Opportunity WSP USA Inc. is seeking a Senior Archaeologist for our Cultural Resources Group based in our Salt Lake City, Utah office. This individual will work with a multidisciplinary team of ...

Snyder & Associates

Senior Archaeologist

Ankeny, IA · On-site

As we continue to grow toward this mission, we are excited to add a Senior Archaeologist to our team. With thirteen office locations in five states, the communities we serve are the same places we ...

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Senior Archaeologist information

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$25K

$80.3K

$163.5K

How much do senior archaeologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior archaeologist in the United States is $80,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a high demand for archaeologists?

The demand for archaeologists, including senior archaeologists, is generally steady but varies by region and funding availability. Employment opportunities are often linked to cultural resource management, construction projects, and academic research, with competition for positions remaining moderate. Strong skills in excavation, reporting, and compliance with preservation laws enhance job prospects.

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

To thrive as a Senior Archaeologist, you need advanced knowledge of archaeological theory and methods, a relevant graduate degree, and substantial fieldwork experience. Familiarity with GIS software, database management, and compliance with regulations like Section 106 are typically required, along with certifications such as Register of Professional Archaeologists (RPA) membership. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing teams and engaging with stakeholders. These competencies ensure accurate research, regulatory compliance, and successful project delivery in both academic and commercial archaeology settings.

What does a Senior Archaeologist do?

A Senior Archaeologist leads archaeological projects, including planning excavations, supervising teams, and ensuring work complies with legal and ethical standards. They analyze artifacts, write detailed reports, and often work with government agencies, developers, or museums to preserve historical sites. Senior Archaeologists also mentor junior staff, manage budgets, and may present findings to the public or at academic conferences. Their expertise helps protect cultural heritage and inform our understanding of the past.

What is the difference between Senior Archaeologist vs Archaeologist?

AspectSenior ArchaeologistArchaeologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Archaeology, often with fieldwork experienceBachelor's or Master's in Archaeology or related field
Work EnvironmentLead field projects, oversee teams, coordinate researchConduct field surveys, excavations, and lab analysis
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, cultural resource firmsUniversities, museums, government agencies, private firms

The main difference between a Senior Archaeologist and an Archaeologist is experience level and responsibility. Senior Archaeologists typically lead projects and manage teams, while Archaeologists focus on conducting fieldwork and research. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work in related environments, but Senior Archaeologists have more leadership duties and industry experience.

What is a senior archaeologist?

A senior archaeologist is an experienced professional responsible for leading archaeological research, excavations, and analysis. They often oversee projects, manage teams, and require knowledge of excavation tools, reporting, and relevant regulations. Typically, they hold advanced degrees and have several years of field and research experience.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Archaeologists when leading field projects?

Senior Archaeologists often encounter challenges such as managing multidisciplinary teams, navigating complex regulatory requirements, and ensuring that projects stay on schedule and within budget. They must also address unexpected findings or site conditions, which can require rapid decision-making and adaptation of research strategies. Balancing stakeholder interests, including those of local communities, clients, and regulatory agencies, is another key aspect of the role. Effective communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills are essential to overcome these challenges and ensure successful project outcomes.

What is the highest paying archeologist job?

Senior archaeologists with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications tend to earn the highest salaries in archaeology. Positions in government agencies, large consulting firms, or private industry often offer higher pay, especially for those involved in project management or specialized research. Leadership roles such as archaeology directors or principal investigators typically have the highest compensation in the field.

What is the 50 year rule in archeology?

The 50-year rule in archaeology states that artifacts and historical materials are generally considered eligible for excavation and study if they are at least 50 years old. This guideline helps determine what items are of archaeological interest and can be legally excavated or preserved, often requiring permits and adherence to preservation standards for senior archaeologists involved in the process.
More about Senior Archaeologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Archaeologist jobs? Cities with the most Senior Archaeologist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Archaeologist jobs? The most popular types of Archaeologist jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Archaeologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Archaeologist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Senior Archaeologist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Archaeologist jobs are:
Senior Archaeologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Archaeologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 24% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 54% Nights, and 5% Summer. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,287 per year, or $38.6 per hour.
Senior Archaeologist

Senior Archaeologist

Staffingine LLC

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Senior Archaeologist
Job Location: Richmond, VA
Job Type: Full-Time

Job Description:

  • Conducts archaeological field work with the ability to identify artifacts and determine the presence of archaeological sites.
  • Collects data and field samples during archaeological investigations.
  • Analyzes historic and pre-historic artifacts.
  • Documents methodologies and findings of research and archaeological investigations.
  • Reviews and writes archaeological reports and/or prepares archaeological site forms.
  • Assists in making decisions about project alternatives and the resolution of adverse effects to archaeological resources.
  • Works with technical field, lab and office staff, managers and administrative staff to ensure that projects meet JMT and professional quality standards.
  • Assists in business development through the preparation of proposals, budgets, and other marketing materials.
  • Coordinates with clients throughout project to ensure that projects meet JMT and professional quality standards and stays on schedule and budget.