Project Archaeologist

About the opportunity

SWCA Environmental Consultants are seeking a Project Archaeologist to support the Sheridan, Wyoming office. Under the supervision of a Project Manager or Lead Archaeologist, the Project Archaeologist will be responsible for assisting on all aspects of cultural resource projects from pre-field desktops to coordinating agency deliverables. This work is well suited for a team-oriented individual that thrives in a collaborative work environment;

creative problem-solving skills are a must. This position has an approximately 30% field-based component, with overnight travel required. Those located in surrounding states are encouraged to apply.

• Assist project managers on all aspects of cultural resource projects, including budgeting, schedule, fieldwork, and reporting.
• Conduct background research for archaeological studies, including records searches.
• Ensure that appropriate preliminary research is conducted and organized prior to fieldwork, and that necessary equipment, staff, and other resources are ready for fieldwork.
• Coordinate with agency personnel, subconsultants, construction crews, and Native American monitors, as needed, to arrange fieldwork and facilitate projects.
• Supervise fieldwork, including archaeological survey, testing, data recovery, and/or construction monitoring and ensure quality and completeness of data collected.
• Supervise personnel.
• Communicate regularly with project managers to ensure that a project’s budgetary and timetable needs are met.
• Take initiative, resolve problems, and create improved procedures to ensure that tasks are completed in the most effective and efficient manner.
• Maintain SWCA’s high standard of scientific ethics and quality assurance; is motivated to identify and resolve problems in creative ways.
• Take responsibility for team safety, develop safety plans (when applicable), and anticipate potential safety hazards.

• Master’s degree in archaeology, anthropology, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of seven (7) years of experience in cultural resources management (CRM) on a variety of project types, sizes, regions, and agencies.
• At least 2‑3 years of supervisory experience in CRM.
• Participation in an accredited field school or equivalent experience.
• Experience with the application of standard archaeological survey and excavation techniques.
• Familiarity with National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) Section 106.
• Demonstrated experience as a primary report author in a CRM context for diverse project types, sizes, regions, and agencies.
• Experience providing QA/QC review of field documents and site forms.
• Familiarity with cultural resource regulations and processes in Montana and/or Wyoming.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet SWCA’s driver requirements.

• Experience managing CRM tasks, including budgets, scheduling, and scopes of work.
• Leadership experience managing archaeology crews on diverse projects.
• Ability to coordinate personnel and resources within budgetary constraints.
• Experience implementing National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) Sections 106 and 110 and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) permitting processes.

SWCA Environmental Consultants is an employee‑owned firm. This Sheridan, Wyoming position offers an hourly pay range of $69,092.40 to $88,374 per year, with actual pay depending on experience, qualifications, geographic location, client requirements, and other factors permitted by law. Regular‑status employees are also eligible for performance bonuses. Candidates are encouraged to consider SWCA’s total rewards package, which includes a competitive benefits package and forward‑thinking workplace flexibility.

EOE - women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply. At SWCA Environmental Consultants, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive work environment. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce enhances creativity, innovation, and overall organizational success.