SOI Archaeologist

Overview

At UES, we’re a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose—to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.

Position Overview

Help Preserve the Past While Shaping the Future

Are you passionate about archaeology, cultural resource management, and uncovering the stories that help define our communities? Whether you're an emerging professional with one year of experience or a seasoned archaeologist looking for your next challenge, UES offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact while advancing your career.

As an SOI Archaeologist, you'll support and lead cultural resource investigations that help balance progress with preservation. Working alongside a multidisciplinary team of archaeologists, environmental scientists, and engineers, you'll contribute to projects across transportation, energy, utilities, land development, and public infrastructure throughout Tennessee and the surrounding region.

This role offers the opportunity to work on a diverse portfolio of projects, expand your technical expertise, and grow your career with an organization that values professional development, collaboration, and scientific integrity.

Why You'll Love This Opportunity

• Contribute to projects that preserve cultural heritage while supporting community growth and infrastructure development
• Work on diverse archaeological and cultural resource projects across Tennessee and the Southeast
• Collaborate with industry-leading archaeologists, environmental professionals, and engineers
• Build experience with all phases of cultural resource investigations, from survey through reporting
• Enjoy opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and career advancement
• Join a team that values innovation, safety, collaboration, and technical excellence

Responsibilities

At UES, we recognize that successful projects require a thoughtful balance between development and preservation. Our Cultural Resources professionals play a critical role in helping clients navigate regulatory requirements while protecting significant archaeological resources for future generations. Whether you're building foundational experience or bringing advanced expertise to the team, you'll find opportunities to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and support archaeological field investigations, including Phase I, II, and III studies
• Participate in cultural resource surveys, site evaluations, monitoring, testing, and data recovery projects
• Record, document, and evaluate archaeological resources in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local requirements
• Prepare and contribute to technical reports, site forms, research summaries, and regulatory documentation
• Analyze field and laboratory data to support project recommendations and compliance strategies
• Collaborate with project managers, environmental professionals, engineers, clients, and regulatory agencies
• Assist with project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and field logistics as experience allows
• Support mentoring and training of junior staff and field technicians
• Maintain compliance with company quality standards and safety protocols
• Perform other duties as assigned to support project objectives and client needs

Job Responsibilities Note

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. UES retains the right to add to or change the duties of the position at any time.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or closely related field (Master’s degree preferred).

Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in archaeological fieldwork, including supervisory roles.

Meet Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards for Archaeology.

Demonstrated experience conducting archaeological surveys and excavations in compliance with Section 106 of the NHPA.

Proficiency in archaeological field methods, artifact identification, GPS/GIS data collection, and reporting.

Excellent technical writing skills and ability to meet reporting deadlines.

Familiarity with federal and state cultural resource laws and permitting processes.

Ability to lead and manage field crews in remote and challenging environments.

Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel extensively for fieldwork.

Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and terrain, and to carry field equipment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Multiple years of cultural resource management (CRM) experience
• Experience leading field crews and managing archaeological investigations
• Southeastern U.S. archaeological experience, particularly within Tennessee and surrounding states
• Experience preparing technical reports and agency documentation
• GIS, mapping, and data management experience
• Experience interfacing with state and federal agencies, Tribal representatives, and clients

Travel Requirements

Relocation Notice: UES is unable to provide or facilitate relocation for this position at this time. Candidates must currently reside within a reasonable commuting distance of the Knoxville area or be willing to relocate independently.

• This position requires periodic to frequent travel in support of archaeological field investigations and client projects. Travel may include overnight assignments and work at remote field locations throughout Tennessee and neighboring states.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• This position primarily works in outdoor environments and archaeological field settings, regularly exposed to varying site conditions, including:

  • Remote locations requiring travel on foot through forests, fields, wetlands, steep slopes, and uneven terrain
  • Exposure to varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, humidity, rain, and direct sunlight
  • Moderate to loud noise levels associated with construction, transportation, and active project sites
  • Exposure to dirt, dust, vegetation, insects, and other environmental conditions common to fieldwork

  The physical requirements for this position may include and are not limited to:

  • Ability to walk extended distances across uneven terrain while carrying field equipment
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds as needed
  • Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, climbing, crouching, and digging
  • Ability to operate field equipment and vehicles safely
  • Ability to communicate effectively with project teams, clients, and regulatory stakeholders
  • Ability to observe, document, and record field conditions accurately

EEO Statement

UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here