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The Archeologist is responsible for aiding in implementing a compliant TO Kwajalein USA-KA ... the summer months). * Includes some industrial production environment conditions as well. * The ...

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How much do summer archaeology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer archaeology in the United States is $20.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a summer archaeology?

A Summer Archaeology job is a seasonal position where individuals assist in archaeological fieldwork, lab analysis, or heritage site management. Responsibilities may include excavating sites, cataloging artifacts, and conducting research under professional supervision. These roles are common for students, volunteers, or early-career archaeologists looking to gain hands-on experience. Jobs may be offered through universities, museums, cultural resource firms, or government agencies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in summer archaeology?

To thrive in Summer Archaeology positions, candidates typically need foundational coursework in archaeology or anthropology, practical fieldwork experience, and an understanding of basic excavation methods. Familiarity with archaeological tools (such as trowels, sieves, and GPS units), digital recording systems, and sometimes First Aid certification is often required. Attention to detail, physical stamina, teamwork, and strong communication skills are key soft skills that help individuals excel in outdoor, group environments. These abilities enable archaeologists to efficiently conduct excavations, accurately record findings, and contribute positively to collaborative research projects.

What does a typical workday look like for summer archaeology?

A typical day in a Summer Archaeology position usually starts early, with team members gathering at the site for a briefing and equipment check. The day may include tasks such as excavating test units, screening soil for artifacts, recording data, and maintaining tools, all while working closely under the supervision of a field director. You can expect a mix of physical labor outdoors, meticulous note-taking, and collaboration with other students, technicians, or researchers. Team members should also be prepared to adapt to changing weather conditions and assist with artifact cataloging or site mapping as needed. This hands-on, dynamic environment fosters both learning and the development of practical field skills central to an archaeology career.

Are summer archaeologists still in demand?

Summer archaeologists are still in demand, especially during peak excavation seasons when fieldwork and site analysis are prioritized. Opportunities often depend on funding, project scope, and regional archaeological initiatives, with skills in excavation, surveying, and documentation being valuable. Demand can fluctuate based on archaeological priorities and available grants or research projects.

Is it hard to get a job in archaeology?

Getting a job in archaeology can be competitive, especially for entry-level positions, and often requires relevant education, fieldwork experience, and sometimes certifications. Many roles are seasonal or project-based, so building skills in excavation, survey methods, and data analysis can improve employment prospects.
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Summer Archaeology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Summer Archaeology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 26% Full Time, 64% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,263 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Archaeology Summer Intern 2026

James Madison's Montpelier

Orange, VA

$12.66/hr

Full-time, Temporary, Internship

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Work as part of a mission and value driven team in carrying out all elements of the archaeological process in order to improve our understanding of the cultural resources of James Madisons Montpelier the home and the plantation. Work with the archaeology staff to conduct archaeological excavations and surveys, interpret this information to the visiting public on a day-to-day basis, be an active part of the Summer LEARN public archaeology program(s) at Montpelier, and in teaching the Summer Archaeology Field School. This position pays $12.66 an hour with an average of 35 hours per week (full time)

This position provides on property housing. The Archaeology team is dedicated to professional development and providing opportunities to expand your skills and advance your career. This position also provides an opportunity to apply for the 2026-27 internships with the Montpelier Archaeology Department.

DUTIES Learn from the archaeological department in order to build on and hone skills learned during the previous Field School Assist Archaeology staff in supervising and educating students during Montpeliers archaeological field school and at Arlington House. Excavation of archaeological strata and features individually and as part of a team using appropriate tools. Rigorous and conscientious recording of archaeological deposits (photography, stratum sheets, drawing) of excavated strata/features.

Assist in the survey of cultural resources and archaeological materials through the use of shovel test pits, transit/total station, geophysical survey, or walk over surveys as required. Post-excavation processing of archaeological materials in the archaeology lab (water-screening, floating, finds washing, gradient sorting, picking, cataloging). Check-in and process archaeological samples, and maintain archaeological collections database.

Instruct archaeological techniques during the LEARN Archaeology Public programs offered by the Montpelier Archaeology Department. Engage with the public in a polite and professional manner as one informs them of archaeological processes and historical concepts. This includes visitors at the archaeological site, archaeology lab, and using social media.

Work a varying weekly schedule that may include weekends (not to exceed 70 hours per pay period). Maintain and care for Arlington House throughout the field school. Work as part of a value driven team to further the goals of the Archaeology Department and mission of The Montpelier Foundation, setting an example for students.

Other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS: Must have attended the Montpelier Archaeology Departments archaeological field school within the past five years. Must be able to effectively communicate archaeological techniques to untrained volunteers and students; Willingness to adhere to The Values of The Montpelier Archaeology Department.

Acceptable background check

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