Principal Technical Consultant, Archaeologist - Oregon or Washington

ERM•Portland, OR

1d•$105,570 - $144,756•Hybrid

About The Position

Lead complex cultural resources work that shapes major infrastructure projects across the Pacific Northwest. Join ERM as a Principal Technical Consultant, Archaeologist and bring your expertise to high-impact projects, collaborative teams, and client partnerships that move the industry forward. This role sits at the intersection of cultural stewardship and large-scale project delivery. You will guide regulatory strategy, ensure compliance, and protect cultural resources while enabling critical development across the Pacific Northwest. As a senior leader, you’ll influence project outcomes, mentor talent, and expand ERM’s presence in a growing market. This is a full-time role based in Seattle or Portland, with a strong preference for candidates familiar with Pacific Northwest regulatory frameworks. If you’re ready to lead, influence, and grow in a dynamic consulting environment, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.

Requirements

Graduate degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or related field with 10+ years of experience.
Eligibility to serve as Principal Investigator on BLM, ARPA, and state permits in the Pacific Northwest.
Secretary of the Interior–qualified archaeologist; Registered Professional Archaeologist (RPA).
Demonstrated experience leading surveys, testing, data recovery, and compliance reporting in WA/OR and broader PNW.
Strong background with NEPA/SEPA documentation and agency-reviewed technical reports.
Experience consulting with regulatory agencies, Tribal Nations, and project stakeholders.
Proven leadership managing teams, deliverables, budgets, and timelines.
Willingness to travel across the Pacific region as needed.
Valid driver's license and/or the ability to operate a company vehicle due to the nature of job duties, which include frequent travel to various client locations across a large geographical area.

Nice To Haves

Established relationships with Pacific Northwest agencies and clients.
Experience supporting business development and expanding client accounts.
Proficiency with field technologies (GPS, total station, ArcGIS Field Maps/Survey123).
Previous collaboration across multidisciplinary teams (e.g., planners, biologists, engineers).

Responsibilities

Serve as a trusted technical leader and Principal Investigator on complex cultural resources projects.
Drive high-quality, compliant deliverables that meet federal, state, and local standards (NEPA/SEPA).
Strengthen partnerships with agencies, Tribal Nations, and clients.
Mentor and develop archaeologists while elevating team performance.
Grow ERM’s cultural resources footprint through client engagement and business development.
Serve as Permit Administrator/Principal Investigator, ensuring QA/QC of cultural resource deliverables.
Lead and oversee archaeological studies, including surveys, excavations, and construction monitoring.
Manage and mentor a team of archaeologists, supporting hiring, development, and performance.
Author or oversee technical studies for projects ranging from local efforts to multi-state programs.
Partner with leadership to grow client relationships and expand market opportunities.
Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated environmental solutions.
Represent ERM with clients, agencies, Tribal Nations, and project partners.
Manage subcontractors and ensure quality, scope alignment, and schedule adherence.