Field Archaeologist

Job Title: Field Archaeologist

About Us

Plateau CRM, based in Pullman, Washington, is a cultural resource management firm dedicated to preserving the Pacific Northwest’s pre-contact and historical heritage through expert archaeology and cultural stewardship. Our team conducts surveys and excavations across eastern Washington, Oregon, northern Idaho, and beyond, fostering a collaborative, pet- and child-friendly workplace that values work-life balance and inclusivity in Washington’s employee-friendly environment.

Position Summary

The Field Archaeologist leads small-scale archaeological projects, managing Field Technicians and supporting Plateau CRM’s mission to preserve Pacific Northwest cultural heritage. This role conducts fieldwork, assists with reporting, and ensures project quality under guidance of the Principal Investigator (P.I.). Ideal candidates are skilled leaders with a passion for CRM.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time, permanent position, typically 40 hours/week, Monday–Friday. Hours may be reduced during slower seasons (e.g., winter), though Plateau maintains year-round employment and does not conduct seasonal layoffs. Fieldwork involves overnight travel, typically 1–5 nights, with occasional Sunday travel for Monday starts on projects requiring 3 hour commutes.

Key Responsibilities

· Work under the direction of a Project Archaeologist to execute survey, excavation, and monitoring fieldwork as part of a larger project team.

· Supervise small field contingents (2–4 person crews) when the team splits to survey efficiently, ranging from overseeing a two-person digging/screening team to independently managing a small group surveying a portion of the APE or recording a site away from the main crew.

· Ensure protocol compliance among Field Technicians within your contingent during field investigations, reporting progress and findings back to the Project Archaeologist.

· Identify and conduct data recordation of historical and precontact sites, including when operating independently from the main field team.

· Set up transect lines, probing locations, and project areas using KMZ, maps, and 811 utility locates.

· Collect and transmit field data using GPS units, digital cameras, and field forms, maintaining accuracy and consistency when working remotely from the rest of the team.

· Occasionally lead small-scale (sub-10 acre) projects independently, including associated field strategy and report sections (e.g., background, probe tables, results).

· Prepare and upload site forms and field notes to servers (e.g., SHPO databases), and collaborate with office staff to review field data for accuracy.

Reports to P.I./ Operations and Logistics Manager

Supervisory Responsibilities Supervises Field Technicians (2–4 person crews) on a project-by-project basis, overseeing field operations and task assignments.

Qualifications and Skills

Required:

Master’s degree (MA/MSc) (exceptions considered case-by-case) in Archaeology, Anthropology, or related field.

· 1–2 years of CRM field experience (e.g., surveys, excavations, monitoring).

· Experience supervising small field crews (2–4 people).

· Ability to hike 10–15 miles/day on variable terrain and lift up to 50 pounds.

· Valid U.S. driver’s license and clean driving record.

Preferred:

· Knowledge of Plateau and Basin culture areas or Washington state regulations.

· Experience with WISAARD, DAHP, or NRHP eligibility processes.

· Proficiency in GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) for field planning.

· Strong written communication for report drafting.

Work Environment and Requirements:

This role involves approximately 80% field and 20% office work, primarily in rugged outdoor environments across eastern Washington, Oregon, northern Idaho, and beyond, with variable weather including summer heat. Essential tasks include hiking 10–15 miles/day on variable terrain, excavating soil and shaking screens for subsurface testing, standing up to 10 hours (with breaks) for monitoring, and lifting up to 50 pounds using tools like shovels, GPS units, and buckets. Reasonable accommodations are available.

Compensation and Benefits:

$22.00-25.75/hour, based on experience. Full-time employees receive fully covered dental and vision insurance, Life Flight Insurance, a SIMPLE IRA with employer contributions and access to personalized financial counseling through our plan advisor, paid time off, paid holidays, and professional development opportunities.

Equal Employer Opportunity Statement:

Plateau CRM provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, age, disability, marital status, families with children status, veteran or military status, genetic information, use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. This applies to all aspects of employment, including hiring, promotion, compensation, and training.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $22.00 - $25.75 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Relocation assistance

Education:

• Master's (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $22 - $26