Senior Archaeologist

Job Code: SA-2026

Job Link: Senior Archaeologist - Southeastern Archaeological Research, LLC. "SEARCH"

SEARCH is seeking a Senior Archaeologist to support various projects in the US. The position can be remote or based out of one of our offices is Orlando, Jacksonville, Pensacola, or New Orleans.

Successful candidates will have a background in cultural resource management. The candidate should have excellent technical writing skills and the ability to produce reports for review by subject matter experts on behalf of federal, state, and tribal agencies under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the National Environmental Policy Act, among other historic preservation laws/regulations.

• Use experience, education from a degreed program, and professional judgment to identify and target locations of enhanced site probability based on cultural, geological, and other environmental features
• Administer the project health and safety plan, participate in office and field training, and offer recommendations for improvement to health and safety manager
• ·Have a thorough understanding of the research design and ensure its implementation
• Based upon education, field observations, and scientific judgement, revise field methodology to meet overall project goals, in consultation with project leadership
• Perform pre-field background research, prepare maps, input data into electronic devices, and prepare project summary for field staff
• Provide leadership to field teams conducting archaeological monitoring, survey, testing, and excavation in support of Phase I, II, and III studies in accordance with the research design to identify, record, and evaluate archaeological resources
• Recognize archaeological signatures and apply reasoning to evaluate the extent and integrity of resources
• Record accurate, organized, and clear field notes, maps, drawings, logs, forms, tables, databases, artifact bags, box labels, and other project documentation
• Collect and inventory artifacts, ecofacts, and samples in accordance with the research design, and keep an accurate field specimen log
• Identify potential human and faunal remains, and treat any suspected human remains respectfully and in a manner consistent with the research design and applicable state and federal guidelines and laws
• Perform quality control of field data (hand-written and electronic) daily to ensure information is accurate and complete
• Use electronic and traditional navigational equipment (GPS, Field Maps, compass and transit) to determine project limits, record fieldwork, document findings, and communicate progress
• Photo-document artifacts, features, excavation units, land use, landscapes, unique environmental features, historic structures, archaeological sites, unique environmental features, specialized equipment or technique usage, and work-in-progress (keep an accurate photo log)
• Use or review GIS data to organize, interpret, and document field research
• Under supervision of the principal investigator, identify, record, and prepare preliminary evaluations of archaeological resources in accordance with state and federal laws, particularly the National Register of Historical Places (NRHP)
• Provide daily updates on project progress to the principal investigator or project manager
• Meet with, coordinate, and collaborate with landowners, land agents, clients, other field research teams, and visiting regulatory agency staff
• Interview informants to gather information on history and use of property
• Prepare thorough, accurate, professional, high-quality technical reports, including writing tasks, graphics, report production, and quality control
• Assist the principal investigator or project manager with other research, project management, and administrative tasks
• Prepare research permit applications for review and submittal by the principal investigator
• Under the supervision of a principal investigator or project manager, draft proposals and cost estimates
• Procure and maintain field equipment, technology, vehicles, and supplies in a clean, working, and safe manner and report any malfunctions, shortages, and risks to principal investigator or project manager
• Complete timesheets and other administrative or project requirements accurately and on schedule
• Understand and adhere to the SEARCH Brand Guidelines, SEARCH Style Guide, SEARCH Fieldwork Guide, and the SEARCH Employee Manual, and encourage others to do the same

Application Requirements

• Cover letter
• CV/resume
• Minimum of three professional references
• Three writing samples (if a collaborative report, identify sections authored). Writing samples should be sent to HR@searchinc.com. Include the Job Posting code (SA-2026) in the subject line of your email.

Other Important Need-to-Know Information

• Applicants must be eligible to be employed in the United States.
• Applicants must have a valid Driver’s License and reliable transportation.
• SEARCH offers a competitive total compensation package with strong health and wellness and retirement plans.
• Pay is commensurate with education and experience.
• SEARCH is strongly committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where a variety of backgrounds, cultures, orientations, ideas, and talents can flourish.
• SEARCH is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
• SEARCH is an Affirmative Action Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace.
• Employment offers are contingent upon satisfactory verification of criminal, education, driving, and/or employment background checks, as well as passing results from a pre‑employment drug screen.

About Us

SEARCH is a global leader in archaeology, maritime archaeology, and the full spectrum of cultural heritage services. Our staff are industry leaders and subject matter experts who support commercial and government clients worldwide. Since 1993, we have completed over 5,700 projects nationwide and in over 40 countries across seven continents and four oceans. By integrating science, technology, and creativity, we harness the power of the past to advance the projects, places, and people we serve.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in anthropology, archaeology, or a closely related field
• Completion of an accredited archaeological field school, six months of field experience, or both
• Minimum five years of professional archaeological field experience encompassing some supervisory experience
• Valid driver's license. good driving record, access to reliable transportation
• Ability to obtain government security clearance

SEARCH Compensation and Benefits include

• Competitive Salary
• Per Diem (for overnight travel)
• SEARCH-subsidized Group Health Insurance (including Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage)
• SEARCH-provided Short-Term Disability Insurance
• SEARCH-provided Long-Term Disability Insurance
• SEARCH-provided Group Term Life Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Emergency Travel Assistance
• Generous 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Holidays (11)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Merit-Based Raises, Bonuses, and Promotions