As-Needed Archaeological Field Technicians (Fresno/ Central Valley)

Rincon Consultants, Inc; Fresno (CA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 51,000; Part time

Job summary

Rincon Consultants, Inc. seeks an Archaeologist for field investigations across California. You will participate in surveys, testing, and documentation, working with project teams and Native American representatives.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Archaeology/Anthropology and field experience; a Master’s may substitute for one year. Occasional extended field assignments and travel are possible; strong organizational and documentation skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or related discipline.
• 1+ years of professional archaeological field experience; Master’s may substitute for one year.
• Ability to work independently in the field with sound judgment.
• Experience using GPS data collection equipment in field surveys.

Responsibilities

• Support Cultural Resources Project Managers and Field Directors with archaeological field investigations across California.
• Participate in pedestrian surveys, construction monitoring, site documentation, testing, and evaluations.
• Record accurate field observations and complete documentation including site records and field notes.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, clients, Native American representatives, and agency personnel.
• Assist with laboratory processing and analysis of archaeological materials as needed.
• Maintain safety, data quality, and regulatory compliance during field assignments.
• Perform additional project-related responsibilities as assigned.

Skills

Field observations

Documentation

Independent field work

GPS data collection

Outdoor endurance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Archaeology/Anthropology

Master's degree may substitute 1 year experience

Tools

Trimble/Garmin GPS

Job description

We are an award-winning California-based environmental consulting firm with 550+ professionals and more than 30 years of diverse experience serving clients in transportation, energy, water, infrastructure, private development, and government sectors. Our mission is to deliver practical, science-based environmental and planning solutions that support communities, infrastructure, and natural systems.

As a people-centric organization, we value collaboration, fairness, and transparency, and are committed to fostering a workplace that supports both personal and professional growth while offering robust career opportunities. We are especially proud of our recent Great Place To Work certification, which reflects an independent assessment of our culture and our team member experiences.

What You’ll Do

• Support Cultural Resources Project Managers and Field Directors with archaeological field investigations throughout California.
• Participate in pedestrian surveys, construction monitoring, site documentation, testing, evaluations, and other archaeological field assignments.
• Record accurate field observations and complete documentation, including site records, field notes, and digital data collection.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary project teams, clients, Native American representatives, and agency personnel as needed.
• Assist with laboratory processing and analysis of archaeological materials when project demands require.
• Maintain high standards for safety, data quality, and regulatory compliance while performing field assignments.
• Perform additional project-related responsibilities as assigned.

What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or a related discipline.
• One or more years of professional archaeological field experience. A Master's degree may substitute for one year of professional experience.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently in the field while exercising sound professional judgment.
• Experience using GPS equipment such as Trimble or Garmin for archaeological data collection.
• Ability to work in physically demanding outdoor environments, including hiking up to 10-12 miles per day while carrying approximately 25 pounds.
• Availability to support extended field assignments lasting approximately 10-12 consecutive days as needed.
• Ability to travel to project locations and maintain reliable transportation.
• Excellent organizational and documentation skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of California prehistoric and historic archaeology.
• Previous experience supporting utility clients, including PG&E, Southern California Edison, SDG&E, SoCalGas, or similar organizations.
• Professional archaeological fieldwork completed within California.
• Familiarity with CEQA, NHPA, and other applicable cultural resource regulations.

Compensation

The base hourly range for this temporary position is $24.00–$37.00 per hour. At Rincon, our salary ranges are based on market median of similar jobs, according to third party salary benchmark surveys. The base pay that is actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Additional Employment Information

Individuals offered employment must successfully complete a pre‑employment drug screening as a condition of employment. Additionally, those hired who may be assigned to federal projects will be subject to further drug testing, including screening for cannabinoids (THC/marijuana), in compliance with the Drug‑Free Workplace Act of 1988 and other applicable federal regulations, which take precedence over California state and local laws.

Rincon Consultants does not accept unsolicited applicant/candidate resumes from search firm recruiters and/or temporary agencies that do not have a signed contract and specified work order with Rincon Consultants. Further, such resumes received will be deemed the sole property of Rincon Consultants and no fees will be paid in the event Rincon Consultants subsequently hires such individual. Rincon Consultants is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.