Archaeological Field Technician

S&ME Inc.; Valencia Heights (SC); On-site; USD 20,664 - 30,307; Full time

Job summary

S&ME Inc. in Columbia, South Carolina is seeking Archaeological Field Technicians for hands-on, outdoor work, supporting field and lab operations.

You will help locate cultural resources, process artifacts, and ensure data is accurately collected and documented to meet regulatory requirements. This temporary, as-needed role offers exposure to diverse projects across transportation, environment, and construction contexts, with safety gear and training provided.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Bachelor's degree in anthropology, archaeology, history, or related field preferred.
• Prior archaeological experience or field school preferred.
• Strong English communication skills (speaking, reading, and writing).

Responsibilities

• Conduct Field Excavations - shovel tests, test unit excavations, systematic artifact collection.
• Perform Artifact Processing - clean, catalog, and prepare recovered materials in the laboratory.
• Support Artifact Analysis - assist with basic artifact identification, sorting, and preliminary interpretation.
• Assist with Background Research - compile environmental, historical, and cultural data for project planning and regulatory compliance.
• Maintain Accurate Documentation - record field observations, provenience information, and lab data with precision.

Skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in anthropology/archaeology/history

High School diploma or GED

Job description

Archaeological Field Technician

Requisition Number: 2026-1610-12

Do you thrive in hands-on, outdoor environments and bring curiosity, reliability, and a strong respect for cultural heritage to every project? S&M is seeking detail-oriented, passionate, temporary, as-needed Archaeological Field Technicians to join our team in Columbia, South Carolina.

At S&M, we have a history of delivering innovative geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction material testing for over 50 years. Over the decades, we have grown into a trusted partner for clients across various industries, including transportation, energy, water, waste management, education, government, commercial, industrial, and more. Our commitment to technical excellence and integrity has established us as a leader in our field.

Why Work at S&M?

• Career Growth: We invest in your success with mentorship, training, and leadership opportunities.
• Exciting Projects: Big or small, simple or complex, we do it all. Our projects are as diverse as they are exciting, so every day brings something new.
• Supportive Culture: Collaboration, respect, and positivity fuel our team environment.
• Flexibility: Work-life balance matters to us, helping you thrive inside and outside the office.
• Community Impact: Your work will directly improve the communities where we live, work, and play.

About The Role:

As an Archaeological Field Technician, you will play a key role in uncovering, preserving, and interpreting the material traces of the past. Working closely with senior archaeologists, you will support every stage of field and lab operations, from locating buried cultural resources to meticulously processing artifacts that inform historical and environmental understanding. Your work will directly contribute to ensuring that archaeological data is accurately collected, documented, and integrated into project research, helping teams make informed decisions that honor cultural heritage and regulatory requirements.

• Conduct Field Excavations - Carry out shovel tests, test unit excavations, and systematic artifact collection to identify and document archaeological resources.
• Perform Artifact Processing - Clean, catalog, and prepare recovered materials in the laboratory to ensure accurate analysis and long-term preservation.
• Support Artifact Analysis - Assist with basic artifact identification, sorting, and preliminary interpretation to contribute to broader research and reporting efforts.
• Assist with Background Research - Compile environmental, historical, and cultural data to support project planning, context development, and regulatory compliance.
• Maintain Accurate Documentation - Record field observations, provenience information, and lab data with precision to ensure the integrity and reliability of archaeological findings.

About You:

• You have a High School diploma/GED required, a Bachelor's degree in anthropology, archaeology, history, or a related field preferred
• You have prior archaeological experience/field school preferred
• You have strong communication skills (speaking, reading, and writing) using the English language
• You can travel extensively throughout the Southeast, Midwest, and Mid-Atlantic

You Are Willing and Able to:

Perform the physical demands of the position with the use of company-provided Personal Protective Equipment, such as:

• Working outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Routinely lifting and carrying 40-50lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)
• Working outside of normal business hours and traveling (typically out-of-town and/or overnight) as project needs arise

Grow With Us:

At S&M, your career growth matters. You'll receive professional training, work on exciting projects, and be part of a company that truly invests in its people. This is more than a job; it's a chance to build a long-term career in the engineering and construction industry. S&M provides a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family, as well as career development resources. Come grow and thrive with us at S&M!

This temporary, as needed role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&M reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time.