10 Types of Jobs in Archaeology (Plus Duties and Salaries)

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Updated June 9, 2025

Archaeology is the study of history through the collection and examination of ancient artifacts. Some archaeology professionals work in the field and complete digs, while others contribute to museums and perform administrative tasks. If you're interested in becoming an archeological professional, learning more about different positions in the field can be beneficial. In this article, we explain what archaeology is, detail 10 jobs you can get in the field and offer helpful tips for becoming an archaeology professional.Related: How To Become an Archaeologist: Education Requirements and Steps

What is archaeology?

Archaeology is the study of history through findings of artifacts and prehistory remains. Professionals in the field use their knowledge and skills to better understand how humans developed through time and how their behavior has changed. This can help scientists better understand climate, civilization, farming and events that caused the collapse of major cities.Related: What Is an Archaeologist? Definition, Job Duties and How To Become One

10 types of jobs in archaeology

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for anthropologists and archeologists is $66,130 per year. The 10 careers in this list are high-paying for archeologists because they surpass the average. For the most up-to-date salary information from Indeed, visit indeed.com/salaries.

1. Environmental archaeologist

National average salary: $64,767 per yearPrimary duties: An environmental archeologist is a professional who gathers and assesses data related to human history and the environment. They study how previous civilizations used land, discover stable isotopes and DNA and analyze heavy metal concentration to learn more about the environment and ecosystem in ancient civilizations.

2. Archeological researcher

National average salary: $81,237 per yearPrimary duties: Archeological researchers gather information and assess archeological finds so they can write reports and articles for scientific journals. They create new research projects to discover more about current archeological finds. An archeological researcher may also write grant proposals to secure funding for their projects.

3. Director of archaeology

National average salary: $89,573 per yearPrimary duties: Directors of archaeology can work in a variety of settings and have varying responsibilities. The director of archaeology within a museum or school may manage more administrative and educational tasks. Archaeology field directors may be the primary managers at dig sites, coordinating archeologists and creating plans for excavation.

4. Historical archaeologist

National average salary: $64,767 per yearPrimary duties: A historical archaeologist is a professional who studies information from previous civilization with the goal of better understanding them. Whereas general archaeologists may focus on general artifacts like remains and common objects, historical archaeologists often focus more specifically on written archaeological finds. This can include maps, court documents, photos and diaries or journals.

5. Archaeology project manager

National average salary: $84,531 per yearPrimary duties: An archaeological project manager oversees digs and excavation projects. They manage schedules, hire specialists for the job and ensure the project stays under the designated budget. They may also communicate with local authorities and government agencies to obtain permits for digs. The archaeological project manager is responsible for ensuring the project proceeds according to the schedule.

6. Museum director

National average salary: $89,573 per yearPrimary duties: A museum director is a professional who manages all aspects of a museum's successful operation. This includes managing the budget, coordinating fundraising efforts and determining which exhibitions are best to show at the museum. They spend extensive amounts of time researching and maintaining the museum's collection. Though a museum director isn't strictly an archaeologist, many archaeological professionals can use their experience and background to earn the position.

7. Forensic analyst

National average salary: $126,866 per yearPrimary duties: A forensic analyst with a background in or focus on archaeology uses their skills to assess remains and find information about crime scenes. These professionals can be especially helpful when crime scenes age past the timeframe for quick assessment from a medical examiner. A forensic analyst with a specialization in archaeology may be more skilled in examining bones and other remains.

8. Cultural resource lawyer

National average salary: $93,223 per yearPrimary duties: A cultural resource lawyer is someone with a thorough understanding of law surrounding culture, and they can consult about cultural issues. They can write proposals, organize preservation programs and help implement systems for conserving culture and important landmarks or areas. A cultural resource lawyer may work with a team of archaeologists to ensure they adhere to local regulations and respect the cultures they interact with.

9. Museum education officer

National average salary: $77,752 per yearPrimary duties: A museum education officer oversees educational efforts within a museum. They develop materials for patrons, coordinate seminars and gallery talks and ensure all facts presented by the institution are valid. Museum education officers can have many backgrounds, including experience with and knowledge of archaeology.

10. Archaeology lab director

National average salary: $102,555 per yearPrimary duties: An archaeology lab director is a leader who oversees operations within a lab. The team in an archaeology lab test materials on findings and perform chemical analysis. The director coordinates schedules and ensures all team members adhere to regulations.

Tips for getting a job in the archaeology field

These are some tips for pursuing positions in archaeology:

Complete archaeology internships: Those who enjoy learning about human history and archeological processes can benefit from completing an archaeology internship. These experiences can help you learn more about archeological concepts and if you enjoy participating in digs.
Join professional associations: There are many professional associates for archeologists, including the Archeological Institute of America (AIA) and the Society for American Archaeology (SAA). Joining professional associations can help you meet peers and discover career opportunities.
Expand your professional network: As a professional in the archaeology field, expanding your professional network can help you gain access to career opportunities like digs and research projects. Consider attending professional events and making connections with your colleagues.
Refine your application materials: Before applying to archaeology positions, consider refining your application materials by focusing on the most relevant information. You can also proofread using online grammar tools or by asking friends and family members to read them through for you.

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