Temporary On Call Archaeology Field Technician

WSP • Richmond, VA

1d • $24 - $30

About The Position

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Temporary On Call Archaeology Field Technician for exciting projects in the Williamsburg, Virginia area for the duration of the 2026 winter/spring season. Be involved in projects with our Earth & Environment Cultural Resource Team and become a part of a growing organization that meets our client’s objectives and solves their cultural resource challenges. WSP is currently looking to fill an hourly, project-based position. This temporary archaeological field technician (heritage resource specialist) position will work with senior archaeologists, field supervisors, architectural historians, and other environmental staff to expand existing and new client relationships and contribute to WSP’s capacity and reputation in the environmental and engineering marketplace. Compensation will be commensurate with credentials and experience. 0- 2 years of field experience is preferred. Positions are temporary, with a maximum duration of 3 months. The successful candidate will work with environmental and heritage/cultural resources specialists throughout the Mid Atlantic. Current and upcoming archaeological project contributions are needed in Virginia. This position is expected to take an active role in conducting fieldwork and supporting the collection and preparation of digital data for reporting findings. The successful candidate will have experience with field survey, including the excavation of shovel test pits, and the logging of soils and collection and logging of artifacts. Experience in the Eastern US is preferred but not required.

Requirements

• Undergraduate coursework in anthropology, archaeology, historic preservation, or related field
• Archaeological field school – can be substituted by 3 month’s professional experience or completion of an Archeological Technician Certification program
• 0-2 years of experience in performing cultural resources services in a field, office, or laboratory setting
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a team environment
• Attention to detail and excellent written communication skills
• Self-motivated, physically able to conduct all aspects of fieldwork in all weather conditions, and be able to follow instructions
• Ability to perform Phase I survey and carry up to 25 lbs. of personal gear and company equipment
• Experience identifying and analyzing a wide variety of archaeological materials from prehistoric and historic-period archaeological sites in the field

Nice To Haves

• B.A./B.S. degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, History, or related field
• 0-2 years of previous field work experience in the eastern US
• Willingness to travel to remote project sites with overnight stay
• Reliable transportation for travel to projects inside and outside of Virginia; project travel is reimbursed in accordance with company policy.
• Experience washing and labeling artifact collections

Responsibilities

• Assist with field projects during all phases of archaeological testing (primarily Phase I and II) by performing pedestrian reconnaissance, shovel tests, test unit excavation supervised by a Field Director
• Document findings through detailed note taking including Munsell soil descriptions and completing field forms
• Collect and log prehistoric and historic artifacts
• Work as part of a team
• Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company resources and adhere to WSP’s Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs

Benefits

• WSP provides a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on a providing health and financial stability throughout the employee’s career. These benefits include coverage related to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life; retirement savings; paid sick leave; paid vacation (or other personal time); paid parental leave; and paid time off for purposes of bereavement, voting, and/or attendance at naturalization proceedings.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees