Field Archaeologist

Field Archaeologist (Entry-Level) – Temporary, Project-Based | Austin (North or South Office)

Salary Range $25.00 – $32.00 hourly W/ OT

Just finished your degree or field school and ready to turn it into a career? Join our cultural resources team and get paid to do hands-on archaeology across Texas and nearby states, learning from experienced crew chiefs along the way. New grads and upperclassmen with field school experience are encouraged to apply.

The Details: Temporary, project-based role (no benefits). Hours vary with project schedules; some weeks may be 40+ hours and others may be none. Pay: $25.00 - $32.00hr w/ OT

Why You'll Love It

• Build real-world cultural resource management (CRM) experience on active projects
• Learn from experienced crew chiefs who will mentor you in the field
• Work at a variety of sites and landscapes across Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Kansas
• Grow your skills in surveys, shovel testing, GPS and digital data collection

What You'll Do

• Conduct Phase I archaeological surveys, including pedestrian survey and shovel testing, to identify cultural resources
• Assist with excavation and trenching as needed
• Collect field data using tablets and GPS devices, and keep detailed photo logs
• Support site documentation, background research, and report preparation
• Work with project leads and crew members to keep data accurate and projects compliant
• Follow safety protocols and communicate findings clearly to project managers and teammates

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor's degree in anthropology or archaeology (upperclassmen nearing graduation with relevant field school experience will also be considered)
• A passion for a career in cultural resources fieldwork or archaeological investigations
• Strong attention to detail and accurate data entry and documentation
• Good communication, time management, and teamwork skills, with a positive attitude
• Comfort with Microsoft Office, tablets, and GPS technology
• Ability to navigate with a compass
• Willingness to travel within Texas and to project sites in Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Kansas
• Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and the ability to safely drive and maintain a work vehicle
• Passing a drug screening test and driver record check is mandatory upon acceptance of an offer

Nice to Have (Not Required)

• Knowledge of archaeological field methods such as pedestrian survey, shovel testing, and trenching
• GIS experience
• CPR, First Aid, and Wilderness First Aid certifications

What to Expect in the Field

• Crews typically work 10-hour days during field efforts, except for travel days
• Hiking rugged terrain (up to 10 miles per day) while carrying field equipment weighing up to 40 lbs
• Completing roughly 10-15 shovel tests per day at set intervals
• Working in all kinds of weather, including cold, extreme heat, humidity, and light rain or snow

Please note: This is a temporary role, and benefits do not apply.