Archaeological Field Technician (Field Based)
ERM is hiring Archaeological Field Technicians to participate in on-site cultural resource mitigation, compliance, and mitigation support during the construction phase of a transmission and distribution project in Northern Nevada and Southern Idaho.
About the role
The field technician will work closely with crew chiefs, archaeological PIs, cultural resources teams (both ERM and subconsultants), and coordinators to participate in mitigation, delineate, analyze, and implement avoidance measures for cultural resources. This supports uninterrupted project progress while maintaining regulatory compliance. The role requires familiarity with varying field techniques, recognition of cultural resources, clear communication, and the ability to work safely and effectively in active construction and diverse, rugged environments. Successful candidates must be flexible and responsive to a changing work environment where schedules, site locations, and tasks fluctuate according to project needs.
Responsibilities
- Work with the Crew Chief or PI to identify, document, and evaluate archaeological materials, features, and isolated finds
- Follow instructions from cultural leadership on appropriate excavation techniques and recordation
- Execute work in a manner that maintains compliance with cultural resource permit conditions and environmental commitments
- Complete daily field notes
- Collect GPS data as instructed
- Other duties as assigned or required
- Compliance with ERM’s rigorous safety program
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or a closely related field (preferred)
- Minimum of 2 years of field technician experience in Great Basin archaeological fieldwork
- Experience with mitigation for infrastructure projects
- Familiarity with Section 106, NHPA, and BLM, NV, and ID agency permitting requirements
- Ability to identify prehistoric and historic-period archaeological materials
- Experience using GPS units, Survey123, ArcGIS, or similar field data collection tools
- Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record
- Ability to work safely in active construction environments and outdoor field conditions
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree
- Qualification under the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards (36 CFR Part 61) in Archaeology
- Experience working in remote areas for extended periods
- Demonstrated ability to support projects requiring sustained field engagement
- Experience working alongside Native American tribal monitors
- OSHA 10- or 30-hour construction safety training
- Wilderness and Remote First Aid Training
Work Environment
This position is field-intensive and may involve:
- Long hours in outdoor environments and temperature extremes
- Walking or hiking on uneven terrain while carrying field equipment
- Working in active construction sites around heavy equipment
Candidates must be physically capable of performing required field duties safely.
Pay
Anticipated annual base pay: $73,985.60 – $94,910.40, or $35.57/hr - $45.63/hr USD. This is a limited-term, non-exempt role. Pay position within this range will be based on factors including relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, performance, shift, travel requirements, and business needs. The role may be eligible for bonus pay (casual and fixed-term/Flexforce employees are not bonus eligible).
Schedule
Full-time (60-72 hours/week), limited-term role with a duration of 6 months and the possibility of extension.
Benefits
Comprehensive package including:
- Paid time off
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k)
- Life and disability insurance
Benefits eligibility is limited to regular employees scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week. Fixed-term employees (including Flexforce) scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are eligible for a limited benefits package. Casual employees are not benefits eligible.