Lead Archaeologist: Field & CRM Specialist

UES; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 55,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

UES is seeking an SOI Archaeologist to lead cultural resource investigations across transportation, energy, and public infrastructure in Tennessee and nearby regions. You will join a multidisciplinary team and advance projects that balance progress with preservation.

The role involves field surveys, data collection, and reporting, with opportunities to mentor staff and expand technical expertise while traveling to field sites. A Master’s is preferred but a strong relevant background qualifies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or closely related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in archaeological fieldwork, including supervisory roles.
• Meet Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards for Archaeology.
• Demonstrated experience conducting archaeological surveys and excavations with NHPA Section 106 compliance.
• Proficiency in archaeological field methods, artifact identification, GPS/GIS data collection, and reporting.
• Excellent technical writing skills and ability to meet reporting deadlines.
• Familiarity with federal and state cultural resource laws and permitting processes.
• Ability to lead and manage field crews in remote environments.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel extensively for fieldwork.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and support archaeological field investigations, including Phase I, II, and III studies.
• Participate in cultural resource surveys, site evaluations, monitoring, testing, and data recovery projects.
• Record, document, and evaluate archaeological resources per federal, state, and local requirements.
• Prepare and contribute to technical reports, site forms, research summaries, and regulatory documentation.
• Analyze field and laboratory data to support project recommendations and compliance strategies.
• Collaborate with project managers, environmental professionals, engineers, clients, and regulatory agencies.
• Assist with project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and field logistics as experience allows.
• Support mentoring and training of junior staff and field technicians.
• Maintain compliance with company quality standards and safety protocols.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support project objectives and client needs.

Skills

Archaeology field methods

Report writing

Team leadership

Travel willingness

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology/Archaeology

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

GIS software

GPS data collection

Job description

UES is seeking an SOI Archaeologist to lead cultural resource investigations across transportation, energy, and public infrastructure in Tennessee and nearby regions. You will join a multidisciplinary team and advance projects that balance progress with preservation.

The role involves field surveys, data collection, and reporting, with opportunities to mentor staff and expand technical expertise while traveling to field sites. A Master’s is preferred but a strong relevant background qualifies.