Senior Archaeologist & Field Research Lead

CW Talent; Williamsburg (VA); On-site; USD 81,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is seeking a senior archaeologist to lead original research and oversee fieldwork in support of interpretive goals. The role safeguards resources and ensures compliance with preservation laws, while managing budgets and collaborating with partners.

Responsibilities include presenting findings publicly, mentoring staff, and coordinating with the College of William & Mary and other stakeholders to advance the archaeology program.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree in anthropology, archaeology, or related field.
• Minimum 10–12 years of professional archaeology experience.
• Proven publication and research track record.
• Strong public speaking and writing abilities.
• Ability to lead teams and manage multiple projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee original archaeological research aligned with interpretive goals.
• Safeguard archaeological resources and coordinate mitigation with teams.
• Ensure compliance with preservation laws and regulations.
• Lead project scopes, budgets, timelines, and fieldwork planning.
• Publish findings and present to professional and public audiences.
• Collaborate with partners, donors, and academic institutions.

Skills

Public speaking

Written communication

Team collaboration

Project management

Archaeology fieldwork

Setting research direction

Education

Graduate degree in anthropology

Archaeology related field

Tools

GPR

Photogrammetry

Environmental analyses

Job description

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is seeking a senior archaeologist to lead original research and oversee fieldwork in support of interpretive goals. The role safeguards resources and ensures compliance with preservation laws, while managing budgets and collaborating with partners.

Responsibilities include presenting findings publicly, mentoring staff, and coordinating with the College of William & Mary and other stakeholders to advance the archaeology program.