Archaeological Field Technician – Pacific Northwest (On-Call)

The Opportunity

Tetra Tech is adding On-Call Archaeological Field Technicians to support cultural resource projects throughout the Pacific Northwest. This is an hourly position with work assignments based on project needs and workload demands.

Selected candidates will support a variety of archaeological investigations including monitoring, survey, testing, excavation, and data recovery efforts under the supervision of Field Directors and Principal Investigators. This position offers opportunities to work on diverse projects throughout Oregon, Washington, and Idaho while gaining valuable Cultural Resources Management (CRM) experience.

Location: Oregon, Washington, and Idaho

Why Tetra Tech

At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world’s most complex challenges.Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world.For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development.Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.

Your Impact

Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference.Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential – join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.

Your Role

Archaeological Fieldwork

• Conduct archaeological surveys, monitoring, testing, excavation, and data recovery activities.
• Record archaeological resources using state-specific site forms and digital data collection methods.
• Complete post-field documentation and site form preparation.
• Collect GPS data using Trimble units, ArcGIS Field Maps, Arc Collector, and related technologies.
• Capture and manage digital photography documentation of cultural resources.
• Assist with mapping and documentation of archaeological resources in the field.
• Support field crews in implementing project-specific survey methodologies and data collection protocols.
  
  

Data Collection & Documentation

• Maintain accurate field notes and records.
• Complete cultural resource documentation and reporting requirements in a timely manner.
• Assist with preparation of field forms, maps, and supporting documentation.
• Utilize tablets, GPS units, GIS applications, and other digital field tools.
  
  

Team Collaboration & Safety

• Work effectively as part of a field crew under the direction of Field Directors and Principal Investigators.
• Follow project-specific health and safety requirements.
• Operate company vehicles safely and responsibly.
• Maintain professional conduct while interacting with team members, clients, landowners, and agency representatives.
• Conduct activities in line with internal procedures, legislation, and industry standards.
• Pursue continuous professional development and maintain a high degree of discipline knowledge and awareness.
• Work in a safe manner at all times and report all health and safety incidents and concerns.
• Additional duties as required.
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or a closely related field.
• Completion of an accredited archaeological field school.
• 1–2 years of archaeological field experience preferred.
• Cultural Resources Management (CRM) experience preferred.
• Experience with archaeological survey, testing, excavation, monitoring, and related field methodologies in the Pacific Northwest.
• Experience using ArcGIS Field Maps, tablets, GPS equipment, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Strong written communication and editing skills.
• Ability to complete cultural resource forms and documentation accurately and efficiently.
• Ability to travel throughout the Pacific Northwest for extended field assignments.
• Valid driver's license and ability to safely operate four-wheel-drive vehicles on rugged terrain.
• Current First Aid certification or ability to obtain.
• Ability to travel approximately 25–50% as required.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record without restrictions.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience identifying prehistoric and historic archaeological resources.
• Experience identifying flora, fauna, and human remains.
• Experience with Trimble GPS equipment and digital data collection platforms.
• Previous experience working on federal, state, utility, energy, transportation, or infrastructure projects.
• Experience working in remote field environments.
  
  

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Ability to perform bending, kneeling, standing, and lifting/carrying objects weighing 35 pounds or more.
• Ability to hike up to 10 miles per day carrying field equipment.
• Ability to work long hours in remote locations and rugged terrain.
• Ability to perform manual labor, including excavation using shovels and hand tools.
• Ability to work in varying weather conditions, including extreme temperatures and inclement weather.
• Ability to travel throughout Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for project assignments.
• Availability to work extended field rotations, which may include assignments lasting 10–12 days at a time.
• Frequent overnight travel and field-based work in remote locations may be required.
  
  

Life At Tetra Tech

The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:

• Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.
• Medical benefits, workers compensation insurance, and 401(k) plan.
• Merit-based financial rewards.
• Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
• Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
• Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.
  
  

A pre-employment drug screen in compliance with federal regulations is required, along with a physical if needed.

Compensation

Pay commensurate based on qualifications, experience, and assigned project responsibilities.

Pay Range: $25.00 – $36.00 hourly

Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience and demonstrated work experience in the above role; skills, certifications, and competencies that align to the specified role; geographic location; and education, as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech’s employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.

About Tetra Tech

Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science ® to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.

Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.

We invite applications from all interested parties.

Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:

LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers

X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs

Additional Information

• Organization: 194 CES