Archaeological Field Technician

S&ME • Columbia, SC

9d • Onsite

About The Position

S&ME is seeking detail-oriented, passionate, temporary, as-needed Archaeological Field Technicians to join our team in Columbia, South Carolina. At S&ME, we have a history of delivering innovative geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction material testing for over 50 years. Over the decades, we have grown into a trusted partner for clients across various industries, including transportation, energy, water, waste management, education, government, commercial, industrial, and more. Our commitment to technical excellence and integrity has established us as a leader in our field. As an Archaeological Field Technician, you will play a key role in uncovering, preserving, and interpreting the material traces of the past. Working closely with senior archaeologists, you will support every stage of field and lab operations, from locating buried cultural resources to meticulously processing artifacts that inform historical and environmental understanding. Your work will directly contribute to ensuring that archaeological data is accurately collected, documented, and integrated into project research, helping teams make informed decisions that honor cultural heritage and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• High School diploma/GED required
• strong communication skills (speaking, reading, and writing) using the English language
• Can travel extensively throughout the Southeast, Midwest, and Mid-Atlantic
• Willing and Able to perform the physical demands of the position with the use of company-provided Personal Protective Equipment, such as: Working outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Routinely lifting and carrying 40-50lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)
• Working outside of normal business hours and traveling (typically out-of-town and/or overnight) as project needs arise
• Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements.
• Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in anthropology, archaeology, history, or a related field preferred
• prior archaeological experience/field school preferred

Responsibilities

• Conduct Field Excavations - Carry out shovel tests, test unit excavations, and systematic artifact collection to identify and document archaeological resources.
• Perform Artifact Processing - Clean, catalog, and prepare recovered materials in the laboratory to ensure accurate analysis and long-term preservation.
• Support Artifact Analysis - Assist with basic artifact identification, sorting, and preliminary interpretation to contribute to broader research and reporting efforts.
• Assist with Background Research - Compile environmental, historical, and cultural data to support project planning, context development, and regulatory compliance.
• Maintain Accurate Documentation - Record field observations, provenience information, and lab data with precision to ensure the integrity and reliability of archaeological findings.

Benefits

• Career Growth: We invest in your success with mentorship, training, and leadership opportunities.
• Exciting Projects: Big or small, simple or complex, we do it all. Our projects are as diverse as they are exciting, so every day brings something new.
• Supportive Culture: Collaboration, respect, and positivity fuel our team environment.
• Flexibility: Work-life balance matters to us, helping you thrive inside and outside the office.
• Community Impact: Your work will directly improve the communities where we live, work, and play.
• comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family
• career development resources

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED