Geophysical Archaeologist

VHB; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks an experienced Archaeologist to join a dynamic Environmental Services Group in Atlanta. This role involves leading archaeological investigations and utilizing advanced geophysical sensing techniques to uncover and assess buried resources. You will collaborate with a talented team, manage project scopes, and contribute to impactful projects that balance development with environmental stewardship. If you are passionate about archaeology and eager to make a difference, this is an exciting opportunity to grow your career in a supportive and innovative environment.

Benefits

Diverse and inclusive culture

Opportunity to work on complex projects

Focus on learning and development

Best-in-class benefits

Flexible, hybrid workplace

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in archaeological surveys, preferably in the Southeast.
• Strong knowledge of remote sensing techniques and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and review archaeological surveys and geophysical remote sensing reports.
• Conduct fieldwork and manage project scope, schedule, and budget.

Skills

Archaeological investigations

Geophysical sensing survey methodologies

Remote sensing techniques

Ground-penetrating radar systems

Metal detection tools

Fieldwork

Team collaboration

Education

Master’s Degree in anthropology or archaeology

Tools

ArcGIS Pro

Microsoft Office Suite

Field Maps

Survey123

Job description

Overview

ABOUT THE POSITION

VHB has an immediate need for an Archaeologist with expertise in geophysical sensing survey methodologies to join our Atlanta based Environmental Services Group.

Do you have experience conducting archaeological investigations (i.e., Phase I - III) and cultural surveys using non-invasive equipment including ground-penetrating radar (GPR), magnetometers, and metal detectors?

Do you have a thorough understanding of the archaeological practices and methods involved with remote sensing geophysical tools and ground truthing techniques to locate buried utilities, delineate and identify unmarked cemeteries, and other features located below ground surface?

Do you have knowledge of the Section 106 process and its purpose and application within the overall NEPA process?

If you answered yes, we would like to talk with you!

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, author, and review Archaeological Resource Survey and Geophysical Remote Sensing Survey Reports at the Phase I, II, and III levels of investigation
• Perform archaeogeophysical surveys using GPR, magnetometers, metal detectors, and other remote-sensing instruments
• Assess archaeological site significance under Criterion D of the NRHP and assess impacts to archaeological resources
• Manage scope, schedule, and budget for small- to medium-sized archaeological projects
• Prepare field survey and geographic maps using ArcGIS Pro
• Coordinate regulatory compliance efforts with federal, state, and municipal agencies
• Conduct archival and historical background research
• Direct field crew and mentor junior staff archaeologists
• Assist with mapping responsibilities in the field, including collection of digital and GPS data

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in anthropology, archaeology, or a closely related field
• 3-5 years of experience conducting archaeological surveys, preferably within the Southeast (i.e., Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, Alabama, and/or Tennessee)
• Working knowledge of remote sensing techniques, ground-penetrating radar systems and equipment, and metal detection tools and methodologies
• Proficient computer skills using Microsoft Office Suite, ArcGIS Pro, Field Maps, Survey123, and other ESRI software.
• Ability to travel to a location, walk/hike and conduct fieldwork for long hours, sometimes in inclement weather, rugged terrain
• Ability to carry equipment and supplies weighing up to 40 pounds
• Valid driver’s license

Preferred Additional Qualifications

• Practical knowledge of local, state, and federal environmental compliance laws (e.g., NEPA, FHWA, ARPA, NHPA, NAGPRA, Clean Waters Act)
• Team-oriented with an ability to perform multiple tasks independently in a timely manner and collaborate effectively and positively with coworkers
• Self-motivated, highly organized and detail-oriented
• Member of the Register of Professional Archaeologists (RPA)

We are VHB! We’re an inspired and innovative team of engineers, scientists, planners, and designers who partner with clients in the transportation, real estate, institutional, and energy industries, as well as federal, state, and local governments. Our work helps improve mobility, enhance communities, and contribute to economic vitality. We do this while balancing development and infrastructure needs with stewardship of our environment.

Our people make us great! VHB provides a differentiating employee experience, which includes:

• Diverse and inclusive culture of collaboration and innovation
• Opportunity to work on complex, transformational projects
• Community and social responsibility as sustainable stewards
• Focus on learning, development, and career growth
• Best-in-class benefits, including flexible, hybrid workplace

We are consistently rated one of the top AEC firms to work for across our 30+ offices on the East Coast. We’re growing, and we hope you’ll join us!

VHB is a proud Equal Opportunity Employer. Since our founding, we have intentionally fostered a culture of inclusion and belonging, supported by deep-rooted core values, one of which is diversity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.