Senior Archaeology Lead for Infrastructure Projects

ERM; Portland (ME); Hybrid; USD 108,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

ERM seeks a Principal Technical Consultant, Archaeologist to lead complex cultural resources work for major infrastructure projects across the Pacific Northwest. This full-time position is based in Seattle or Portland, with a strong preference for candidates familiar with regional regulatory frameworks and a Hybrid work model.

The role requires 10+ years of archaeology experience, PI eligibility, and leadership of surveys, testing, data recovery, and compliance reporting.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or related field with 10+ years of experience.
• Eligibility to serve as Principal Investigator on BLM, ARPA, and state permits in the Pacific Northwest.
• Secretary of the Interior–qualified archaeologist; Registered Professional Archaeologist (RPA).
• Demonstrated experience leading surveys, testing, data recovery, and compliance reporting in WA/OR and broader PNW.
• Strong NEPA/SEPA documentation and agency-reviewed technical reports.
• Experience consulting with regulatory agencies, Tribal Nations, and project stakeholders.
• Proven leadership managing teams, deliverables, budgets, and timelines.
• Willingness to travel across the Pacific region as needed.
• Driver’s License Required: ability to operate a company vehicle due to frequent travel to client locations across a large area.

Responsibilities

• Serve as Permit Administrator/PI, ensuring QA/QC of cultural resource deliverables.
• Lead archaeological studies, including surveys, excavations, and construction monitoring.
• Manage and mentor a team of archaeologists, supporting hiring, development, and performance.
• Author or oversee technical studies for projects ranging from local efforts to multi-state programs.
• Partner with leadership to grow client relationships and expand market opportunities.
• Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated environmental solutions.
• Represent ERM with clients, agencies, Tribal Nations, and project partners.
• Manage subcontractors and ensure quality, scope alignment, and schedule adherence.

Skills

Leadership

Regulatory experience

NEPA/SEPA

Team mentoring

Client engagement

Archaeology field methods

Education

Graduate degree in Archaeology

RPA/PI eligibility

Pacific Northwest PI eligibility

Tools

GPS

ArcGIS Field Maps

Survey123

Total Station

Job description

ERM seeks a Principal Technical Consultant, Archaeologist to lead complex cultural resources work for major infrastructure projects across the Pacific Northwest. This full-time position is based in Seattle or Portland, with a strong preference for candidates familiar with regional regulatory frameworks and a Hybrid work model.

The role requires 10+ years of archaeology experience, PI eligibility, and leadership of surveys, testing, data recovery, and compliance reporting.