Field Director

Lithos Paleontology and Cultural Resource Consultants; California; Remote; USD 44,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care insurance

401k employer matching

Job summary

Lithos Paleontology and Cultural Resource Consultants is seeking a full-time Field Director for Archaeology to oversee projects across the Western United States. The role emphasizes field leadership, site documentation, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

You will supervise field crews, develop research designs, perform site mapping and artifact documentation, and coordinate with clients and regulatory agencies while in the field.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or related field.
• Experience leading archaeological fieldwork and teams.
• Knowledge of regional regulatory requirements and methods.

Responsibilities

• Plan and oversee archaeological fieldwork, surveys, excavations, and site assessments.
• Lead field crews, train staff, and ensure safety and best practices.
• Develop project-specific research designs and methodologies.
• Map, record, and manage artifacts; maintain documentation.
• Prepare daily reports and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Communicate with clients, stakeholders, and agencies; coordinate with Tribal staff.
• Assist in technical report writing and client meetings; manage equipment.

Skills

GIS proficiency

Field data collection software

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Problem solving

Teamwork

Valid driver’s license

Willingness to travel

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology/Anthropology

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

GIS software

Field data collection tools

Job description

Hire Type:

Full time, Hourly, pay dependent on experience

Salary Range:

$32-$45 per hour

Location:

Remote, reporting to the Southern California OR the Pacific Northwest Operating Region

Job Description

Lithos is seeking a full-time Field Director for Archaeology to support projects in the Western United States. WE are currently hiring a position in Southern California as well as a position in the Pacific Northwest. The Field Director of Archaeology will have a strong background in field methods, site documentation, and leading field teams. This role involves serving as a Field Director leading fieldwork, managing compliance during project construction, and coordinating with clients and stakeholders while in the field. The Archaeological Field Director will play a key role in leading field crews, managing field logistics, and ensuring the successful execution of archaeological surveys, testing, excavation, and compliance programs.

Duties will include:

• Plan, organize, and oversee archaeological fieldwork, including surveys, excavations, and site assessments.
• Lead and supervise field crews, providing training, direction, and support to ensure adherence to best practices and safety protocols.
• Develop and implement project-specific research designs and field methodologies.
• Conduct field mapping, site recording, and artifact collection, ensuring accurate documentation and data management.
• Prepare daily field reports, field notes, and other documentation, maintaining thorough and organized records.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Communicate regularly with clients, stakeholders, and regulatory agencies, providing updates on project progress and findings, in conjunction with senior staff and project managers.
• Collaborate and communicate with Tribal Cultural Staff.
• Assist in the preparation of technical reports, research papers, and other deliverables.
• Maintain and manage field equipment and supplies, ensuring readiness and proper maintenance.
• Support business development efforts, including proposal writing and client meetings, as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by senior staff.

Benefits

• Benefits include health care insurance and 401k employer matching

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or a related field.
• Three years of experience in archaeological fieldwork and research, with demonstrated experience in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of archaeological methods, techniques, and regulatory requirements in their respective region.
• Proficiency in using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), field data collection software, and other relevant technologies.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record; ability to pass background checks and drug screening.
• Willingness to travel and work in diverse field conditions, including remote locations and varying weather conditions.
• Ability to be permitted as a Field Director on a BLM Cultural Resources Use Permit in California OR Oregon.
• Ability to work in remote locations and carry 40+lbs for 10 miles or more per day.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or a related field.
• Oregon SHPO Qualified Archaeologist (Pacific NW position ONLY)
• Five+ years of experience in archaeological fieldwork and research.