Principal Investigators (Field Based)

ERM•Reno, NV

1d•$89,900 - $126,200•Onsite

About The Position

ERM is hiring field-based Principal Investigators to lead on-site cultural resource mitigation, compliance, and mitigation support during construction of a client’s transmission and distribution project in Northern Nevada and Southern Idaho. The PI works closely with project managers to understand client risk decisions, schedule drivers, and site-specific methods, making field decisions and communicating method changes in real time. The role leads teams that may include ERM personnel, project term-hire staff, subconsultants, and coordinators to implement mitigation, delineate and analyze cultural resources, and implement avoidance measures while supporting uninterrupted project progress and regulatory compliance. This is a full-time, limited-term position lasting six months, with the possibility of extension, and a stated schedule of 60–72 hours per week. The work requires flexibility as schedules, site locations, and tasks change with project needs, as well as sound field judgment, clear communication, and safe and effective work in active construction and diverse, rugged environments. The position is field-intensive and may involve long hours outdoors in temperature extremes, hiking on uneven terrain while carrying field equipment, and working around heavy equipment at active construction sites. The anticipated annual base pay is $89,900–$126,200 ($43.22–$60.67 per hour). The position is limited-term and non-exempt. It may be eligible for bonus pay, subject to the conditions described in the posting. Benefits-eligible employees may receive paid time off, medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k), and life and disability insurance. Eligibility depends on employment category and scheduled hours; fixed-term employees working at least 20 hours per week are eligible for a limited benefits package.

Requirements

At least five years of Principal Investigator experience in Great Basin archaeological fieldwork.
Permitted as a Nevada BLM Principal Investigator statewide for prehistoric and historic work.
Experience with mitigation for infrastructure projects.
Strong familiarity with Section 106, NHPA, and BLM, Nevada, and Idaho agency permitting requirements.
Ability to identify prehistoric and historic-period archaeological materials and features.
Experience using GPS units, Survey123, ArcGIS, or similar field data collection tools.
Valid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record.
Ability to work safely in active construction environments and outdoor field conditions.
Physical capability to safely perform required field duties.
Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or a closely related field is listed as preferred in the Requirements section.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree (listed as required under Preferred Qualifications).
Qualification under the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards (36 CFR Part 61) in Archaeology.
Experience working in remote areas for extended periods.
Demonstrated ability to support projects requiring sustained field engagement.
Experience working alongside Native American tribal monitors.
Permittable as a PI for Idaho BLM.
OSHA 10- or 30-hour construction safety training.
Wilderness and Remote First Aid Training.

Responsibilities

Lead mitigation in accordance with the Historic Properties Treatment Plan and site-specific plans.
Communicate and make real-time decisions about site-specific plan changes in the interests of data collection, BLM requirements, and schedule drivers.
Lead by example in safety and comply with ERM’s safety program.
Identify, document, and evaluate archaeological materials, features, and isolated finds, and provide preliminary in-field assessments of National Register of Historic Places eligibility.
Implement unanticipated discovery procedures in accordance with project permits.
Coordinate in real time with project managers and cultural resource leads.
Maintain compliance with cultural resource permit conditions and environmental commitments.
Oversee daily field notes, photographic documentation, and GPS data collection.
Collect data for future reporting, summary updates to the BLM, and updates to field forms.
Assure quality control for crew members’ data collection and methods.
Assist with preparing documentation and technical memoranda.
Communicate findings, compliance concerns, and work status to project managers and senior archaeologists.
Support coordination with Native American tribal monitors when applicable.
Perform other duties as assigned or required.