Principal Archaeologist

WSP•Vancouver, BC

4d•CA$119,900 - CA$175,800•Hybrid

About The Position

This is an exciting opportunity to join our Heritage team in British Columbia as a Principal Archaeologist, where you’ll guide and manage heritage projects and business opportunities across the province. You’ll collaborate closely with our province‑wide Heritage team to deliver meaningful work that protects cultural heritage while supporting impactful development. The successful candidate will ideally be based in one of our offices within the Lower Mainland of BC.

Requirements

A graduate degree in Archaeology or Anthropology, or an undergraduate degree
10+ years of relevant consulting archaeology experience.
Registered Professional Consulting Archaeologist (RPCA) in good standing, with Field Director and Permit Holder status in at least one BC Culture Area (Northwest Coast Culture Area considered an asset).
Demonstrated experience identifying, recording, and evaluating a wide range of archaeological site types in British Columbia, in terrestrial and/or coastal settings.
Strong history of collaborative work with Indigenous communities, ideally with demonstrated ongoing relationships.
Proficiency with GPS data collection tools, handheld tablets, and MS Office for analysis and reporting.
Proven ability to prepare and/or peer‑review complex archaeological reports and technical documents.
Leadership aptitude with experience supervising field crews and mentoring developing professionals and Indigenous workers.
A valid Class 5 driver’s license

Nice To Haves

Northwest Coast Culture Area permit holder status
ATV/UTV training
First Aid training

Responsibilities

Lead archaeological field programs while ensuring full compliance with Heritage Conservation Act permits.
Secure heritage inspection, investigation, and alteration permits and support proposal development.
Design, lead, and oversee archaeological field investigations, analysis programs, and high‑quality technical reporting.
Manage project scope, schedule, budget, and invoicing to achieve successful delivery.
Collaborate with Indigenous Nations, clients, and regulators to support respectful, technically sound project outcomes.
Build and maintain meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities and support inclusive project delivery approaches.
Participate in business development, including supporting proposals and meeting with existing and prospective clients.
Supervise and mentor junior and intermediate staff and Indigenous workers.
Demonstrate a strong “Safety First” commitment by actively contributing to WSP’s Health & Safety program.