On Call Archaeology Field Technician

This Opportunity

WSP is currently initiating a search for an On Call Archaeology Field Technician for exciting projects in the Herndon, VA and Washington, DC area. Be involved in projects with our Earth & Environment Cultural Resource Team and become a part of a growing organization that meets our client’s objectives and solves their cultural resource challenges.

WSP is looking to fill an hourly, project-based position. This position will work with senior archaeologists, field supervisors, architectural historians, and other environmental staff to expand existing and new client relationships and contribute to WSP’s capacity and reputation in the environmental and engineering marketplace. Compensation will be commensurate with credentials and experience.

The successful candidate will work with environmental and heritage/cultural resources specialists throughout the Mid Atlantic. Current and upcoming archaeological project contributions are needed in Virginia. This position is expected to take an active role in conducting fieldwork and supporting the collection and preparation of digital data for reporting findings.

• Assist with field projects during all phases of archaeological testing (primarily Phase I and II) by performing pedestrian reconnaissance, shovel tests, and test unit excavation under supervision of a Field Director.
• Document findings through detailed note taking including Munsell soil descriptions and completing field forms.
• Collect and log prehistoric and historic artifacts.
• Work as part of a team.
• Exercise responsible and ethical decision‑making regarding company resources and adhere to WSP’s Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

• Undergraduate coursework in anthropology, archaeology, historic preservation, or related field.
• Archaeological field school experience – can be substituted by 3 months of professional experience or completion of an Archaeological Technician Certification program.
• 0–2 years of experience in performing cultural resources services in a field, office, or laboratory setting.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a team environment.
• Attention to detail and excellent written communication skills.
• Self‑motivated, physically able to conduct all aspects of fieldwork in all weather conditions, and able to follow instructions.
• Ability to perform Phase I survey and carry up to 25 lbs of personal gear and company equipment.
• Experience identifying and analyzing a wide variety of archaeological materials from prehistoric and historic‑period sites in the field.

• B.A./B.S. degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, History, or related field.
• 0–2 years of previous field work experience in the eastern U.S.
• Willingness to travel to remote project sites with overnight stay.
• Reliable transportation for travel to projects inside and outside of Virginia; project travel is reimbursed in accordance with company policy.
• Experience washing and labeling artifact collections.

• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Retirement savings plans.
• Paid sick leave, paid vacation or other personal time, paid parental leave, and paid time off for bereavement, voting, and/or attending naturalization proceedings.

Expected hourly rate: $23.66 – $29.62. WSP USA provides the compensation range that the company believes it might pay based on the successful applicant’s education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and geographic location. The company reserves the right to pay more or less than the posted range and to offer additional benefits, depending on circumstances unrelated to protected characteristics.

WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, WSP engages as engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment…