Senior Archaeologist

WSP; Louisville (KY); Hybrid; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

WSP is seeking a Senior Archaeologist to support our Midwest operations from any of our offices. This role involves managing cultural resource projects and ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.

Ideal candidates will have a Master’s Degree and at least 7 years of experience in CRM archaeology, particularly in the Midwest or Southeast. A commitment to safety and collaboration, along with strong problem-solving skills, are essential for success in this position.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of relevant experience, including Section 106/110 compliance.
• Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks for cultural resource management.
• Proven track record of successful project delivery and client engagement.

Responsibilities

• Manage heritage and cultural resource projects.
• Develop and implement research designs for cultural resource studies.
• Prepare and contribute to technical reports and impact assessments.

Skills

CRM archaeology

Technical writing

Project management

Problem-solving

Education

Master's Degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, Historic Preservation, or related field

Job description

This Opportunity

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Senior Archaeologist to support our Midwest operations. This position can be based out of any WSP office across the Midwest.

Be involved in projects with our Cultural Resources Management Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our client’s objectives and solves their challenges. At WSP, you’ll find a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusion, where your expertise helps shape sustainable communities and preserve cultural heritage for future generations.

In addition to our many ongoing Phase I, II, and III projects, WSP has multiple upcoming cultural resources projects, from survey to mitigation, across Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and the broader Midwest and Southeast regions.

Our highly experienced team includes over 38 cultural resources professionals across key Midwest hubs, supported by a national network of technical experts. This role offers the opportunity to collaborate across regions and disciplines, leveraging WSP’s global resources to deliver impactful results for our clients and communities.

At WSP, we are committed to empowering our people—providing opportunities for career growth, meaningful work, and the ability to contribute to projects that make a lasting difference.

Your Impact

• Manage heritage and cultural resource projects.
• Direct field teams on archaeological surveys and excavations.
• Develop and implement research designs for cultural resource studies.
• Assist with development and scoping of medium-sized projects.
• Interact with clients, landowners, contractors, tribal representatives, and other stakeholders.
• Help clients comply with state and federal regulations (e.g., Section 106/110, NEPA).
• Prepare and contribute to technical reports, data entry, impact assessments, and permitting activities.
• Perform professional archaeological investigations, inspections, and field studies.
• Coordinate with regulatory agencies, subcontractors, and cross-functional teams.
• Remain current in archaeological methods, technologies, and industry best practices.
• Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making aligned with WSP’s Code of Conduct.
• Support a culture of safety, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Who You Are

Required Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, Historic Preservation, or related field.
• 7+ years of relevant experience, including Section 106/110 compliance.
• Experience in CRM archaeology, preferably within the Midwest or Southeast.
• Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks for cultural resource management.
• Proven track record of successful project delivery and client engagement.
• Experience developing project budgets and proposals.
• Excellent technical writing and communication skills.
• Experience leading and managing interdisciplinary teams.
• Demonstrated expertise in Midwest or Southeast archaeology.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently while mentoring junior staff and ensuring QA/QC standards.
• Proven commitment to workplace safety and adherence to company policies.
• Flexibility to meet project demands, including occasional travel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a related field.
• Specialized expertise in Central U.S. archaeology demonstrated through publications or presentations.
• Active participation in professional organizations.