Archaeological Collections & Curation Intern

Job Description

AECOM is seeking an Archaeological Collections & Curation Intern to be based in Raleigh, NC.

The Transportation Group of AECOM is seeking an enthusiastic undergraduate or graduate student pursuing a degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, Museum Studies, Historic Preservation, or a related field to join our Cultural Resource Management (CRM) team in Raleigh, North Carolina. This internship provides hands-on experience supporting archaeological laboratory operations, collections management, and artifact curation associated with federal, state, local, and private-sector compliance projects.

The selected intern(s) will work closely with professional archaeologists and collections staff to process archaeological materials recovered from CRM investigations, including Phase I, II, and III projects. The position offers valuable exposure to the full lifecycle of archaeological collections management, from laboratory processing and cataloging through preparation for permanent curation.

This position is expected to begin in May 2027.

The responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:

• Process archaeological artifacts recovered from CRM projects, including washing, sorting, labeling, and cataloging.
• Assist with inventorying and organizing archaeological collections and associated records.
• Enter artifact and provenience data into digital collections databases.
• Prepare collections for long-term curation in accordance with state repository requirements and federal standards, including 36 CFR Part 79.
• Organize project records, photographs, maps, field forms, and digital documentation.
• Conduct basic artifact identification and classification under the supervision of professional archaeologists.
• Support digitization and archival management efforts.
• Maintain laboratory organization and assist with collection storage management.
• Participate in special projects involving legacy archaeological collections and curation management plan implementation.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• Candidates must be pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, Museum Studies, Historic Preservation, or a related discipline and must have completed at least one year of study. Candidates who have recently graduated with a Bachelor’s degree and plan to continue with the Master’s degree are eligible to apply for these positions. Recent graduates must have been enrolled in their bachelor’s degree in the most previous school term with an interest in pursuing an advanced degree in the same or similar discipline at the conclusion of the internship.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to perform repetitive laboratory tasks with accuracy and consistency.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a professional team environment.
• Completion of archaeological field school and laboratory methods coursework.
• Previous experience in an archaeological laboratory, museum, repository, or collections setting.
• Familiarity with Southeastern U.S. archaeology and material culture.
• Basic understanding of federal and state historic preservation compliance processes.
• Experience with artifact databases and digital record management.
• Interest in pursuing a career in CRM.

Additional Information

• Relocation assistance is not available for this position.
• Ability to lift and move boxes weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing laboratory work.
• Ability to safely handle archaeological materials, archival supplies, and collection storage containers.
• Sponsorship for U.S. employment authorization is not available for this position.

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. 

Compensation: 16.05 to 20 (USD) (HOURLY)