Archaeologist Job Description

What is the job description of an Archaeologist? What are the duties and responsibilities of an Archaeologist? What does an Archaeologist do?

Job description of an Archaeologist

Archaeologists study human history through the examination of excavated remains and artefacts. These range from prehistoric tools and buildings to animal bones and tiny organisms. Archaeologists study past human activity by excavating, dating and interpreting objects and sites of historical interest. They implement excavation projects at historical sites and collect data that informs understanding of the past.

This Archaeologist job description example includes the list of most important Archaeologist duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Archaeologist profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Archaeologist Duties and Responsibilities

Archaeologist job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Conducting excavation with shovels and other tools
  • Developing and maintaining a cultural resource information base for the field
  • Performing archival research, testing, and evaluation
  • Maintaining archaeological inventories
  • Making presentations to the public, at workshops and other venues
  • Completing field forms, drawing sketch maps, and preparing profile and plan view field drawings
  • Washing, bagging, and labeling artifacts
  • Consulting with the project team about laws and regulations concerning cultural resource issues

Archaeologist Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Archaeologist job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • A graduate degree in archaeology, anthropology, history or related fields
  • Archaeologists must be able to communicate well, both in writing and orally because they must often present their work clearly and concisely to others.
  • Strong listening skills will help facilitate your communication with colleagues.
  • Perseverance
  • Active learning
  • Physical stamina

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Archaeologist starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Archaeologist job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of an Archaeologist may also reference it in preparation for the interview.