What does an Archaeologist do?

An Archaeologist studies the past by analyzing natural and material remains. Archaeologists typically conduct fieldwork, which may involve surveying sites, excavating artifacts and keeping carefully documented records. Once remains are recovered, Archaeologists examine and analyze their findings to gain insight into the evolution, civilization and past ecology.

Archaeologists can use their interpretations to reconstruct ancient environments or civilizations. It’s common for Archaeologists to work in tandem with anthropologists and historians to broaden their perspective. In some cases, they might share their expertise via museum exhibits or educational programs.

Archaeologist skills and qualifications

When crafting an Archaeologist job description, consider including these qualifications:

• A strong interest in history and extensive knowledge of their focused subject

• Written and verbal communication skills for writing reports and interacting with colleagues

• Analytical thinking skills for gleaning new information from excavated artifacts

• Computer skills to make use of archaeological software tools

• Patience and a strong attention to detail

Archaeologist experience requirements

Depending on your role’s needs, you might request additional experience in your Archaeologist job requirements. If you’re looking for someone to assist during an ongoing project, less than a year of field experience may be sufficient to perform the role successfully. For laboratory-based roles that involve more analysis, several years of experience may be necessary.

Archaeologist education and training requirements

A bachelor’s degree is required for most Archaeologist roles, with many professionals majoring in archaeology or anthropology. Some Archaeologists hold a master’s or doctorate degree, particularly if they intend to specialize in a particular subfield.

Field school can also give prospective Archaeologists the chance to gain fieldwork experience. Alternatively, they may further their training through internships or volunteer work in a museum or archaeology lab.

Job description samples for similar positions

An Archaeologist job description sample may not be quite what you’re looking for. The following samples for similar positions might have the information you need:

• Historian

• Researcher

• Zoologist

• Geologist

Archaeologist job description FAQs

What are the different types of Archaeologists?

Archaeology is a broad field that relates to different disciplines. Because of this, Archaeologists may choose to specialize in numerous subfields. They might focus on a specific culture, period, geography or artifact and devote their research to this area of study. Archaeobotany, medieval archaeology and Indigenous archaeology are a few examples of these subfields.

Additionally, an Archaeologist might specialize in a certain analytical technique, such as using chronological dating, conducting geophysical surveys or preparing artifacts for long-term storage. You could specify relevant subfields or techniques in your job description to help attract candidates with similar skill sets.

What is the difference between an Archaeologist and a Geologist?

While an Archaeologist’s field of study may sometimes overlap with a Geologist’s, the roles are distinctly different. Archaeologists are primarily concerned with the evolution of past creatures and civilizations and often perform excavations to gather evidence and artifacts. It’s common for their work to be in the academic or nonprofit sectors.

Though Geologists may also be concerned with the history behind land formations, they typically work for commercial organizations. They might look for ways to access raw materials or assess the geological risks of living or building in a certain area. In some cases, they might focus on the development or conservation of land.

How do I make an archaeology job description stand out?

Highlighting your position’s unique features can help set a job description apart from its competitors. This can mean listing any perks or benefits that come with the role, such as travel opportunities, or offering insight into your company’s culture. Stating the expected salary range in the posting may also attract more applicants.