Senior Archaeologist

WSP in Canada; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 100,900 - 139,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental consulting firm is seeking a Senior Archaeologist to lead archaeological assessments across Northern Ontario. The role involves direct management of archaeological projects, client communications, and engaging with Indigenous communities. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of consulting experience in archaeology, a strong understanding of Ontario's archaeological standards, and proven leadership capabilities. This position offers competitive compensation, reflecting the candidate's experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of consulting archaeology experience, including 5+ years leading projects in Northern Ontario.
• Expert knowledge of Ontario archaeology and applied experience with current MCM Standards.
• Strong understanding of project financial management principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead archaeological assessments in Northern Ontario, ensuring compliance with MCM Standards.
• Direct end‑to‑end archaeological projects including scope development and reporting.
• Engage meaningfully with Indigenous Nations and communities in project execution.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Client Communication

Archaeological Assessments

Education

Professional licence with MCM

Membership with CAHP

Job description

Senior Archaeologist – Northern Ontario

You will lead archaeological assessments across Northern Ontario, providing trusted expertise to clients and multidisciplinary project teams while working closely with Indigenous Nations and communities.

Responsibilities

• Lead archaeological assessments in Northern Ontario in accordance with the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism (MCM) Standards and Guidelines for Consultant Archaeologists.
• Direct end‑to‑end archaeological projects—including scope development, field strategies, reporting, and regulatory submissions.
• Serve as Project Manager, overseeing scope, budgets, schedules, quality, and client communications.
• Provide visible leadership in health, safety, and risk management across field and office environments.
• Deliver senior technical review of archaeological reports to meet MCM and WSP quality standards.
• Coordinate with the Field Operations Lead to plan logistics, staffing, and internal resources for northern Ontario project delivery.
• Mentor archaeological staff and contribute to a collaborative learning culture.
• Support business development through proposal development, relationship building, and strategic insight.
• Engage respectfully and meaningfully with Indigenous Nations and communities, regulators, and clients.
• Analyze and interpret archaeological data within the context of northern Ontario landscapes and cultural histories.

Qualifications

• Professional licence in good standing with the MCM to conduct archaeological fieldwork in Ontario.
• 10+ years of consulting archaeology experience, including 5+ years leading projects in Northern Ontario.
• Expert knowledge of Ontario archaeology and applied experience with current MCM Standards, Guidelines, and Technical Bulletins.
• Proven ability to independently manage large and complex archaeological projects under deadline‑driven conditions.
• Strong leadership and mentoring experience, supporting staff development and project excellence.
• Ability to anticipate project needs, secure resources, and support organizational improvements.
• Experience designing scopes, methodologies, and budgets for projects of various sizes and complexities.
• Strong understanding of project financial management principles.
• Ability to obtain Provincial and Federal Security Clearance.
• Valid Canadian driver’s licence meeting WSP driving policy requirements.
• Advanced knowledge of historical and/or Indigenous material culture specific to northern Ontario would be an asset.
• Experience with archaeological requirements on federal lands.
• Membership with the Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals (CAHP).

Compensation

• AB, BC, NT, NU, SK & YT: $110,600 – $146,500
• MB & ON: $100,900 – $139,000
• NB, NL, NS, PEI & QC: $99,900 – $132,700

The final salary awarded for this role may vary based on education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, physical location, performance, and business needs. Salary ranges may be adjusted for business reasons.

Equal Employment Opportunity

WSP is committed to the principles of employment equity. Only the candidates selected will be contacted.

WSP welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Full details here.