On-Call SOI Archaeologist

At Jacobs, we challenge today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery, and cutting-edge manufacturing—turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

About the role

We are looking for a Secretary of the Interior (SOI) qualified on-call archaeologist to work on a variety of projects throughout southern California. This position involves providing cultural resources support for planning, engineering, and construction services to renewable energy, government, military, transportation, and commercial clients. The role requires compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA), National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Native American Graves Repatriation and Protection Act (NAGPRA), and state regulations. All work will be conducted under the guidance of senior cultural resources staff.

Responsibilities

• Conduct archaeological survey and exploratory subsurface testing.
• Conduct archaeological monitoring during ground-disturbing activities in compliance with project-specific mitigation plans.
• Identify, document, and recover cultural resources in the field.
• Maintain detailed field notes, site forms, and monitoring logs.
• Coordinate with project managers, environmental teams, and construction personnel.
• Ensure compliance with applicable cultural resource laws and guidelines, including:
  • National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA)
  • Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA)
  • Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA)
  • California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)

Requirements

• Master’s degree in anthropology, archaeology, or a closely related field.
• Minimum 2 years of professional archaeological field experience in California.
• Familiarity with California state regulations and local agency requirements for cultural resources.
• Proficiency in GPS technology, field documentation, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently in remote field conditions for extended hours (8–10 hour days).
• Must be based in southern California.
• Strong communication, organizational, and observational skills.
• Meets Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards for Archaeology.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience conducting archaeological surveys, shovel testing, and site documentation.
• Familiarity with Section 106 compliance, site recordation, and artifact analysis.
• Experience contributing to technical reports and cultural resource documentation.
• Prior work experience in a consulting or compliance-driven environment.
• Has, or is willing to obtain, 40-hour HAZWOPER credentials.

Benefits

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to invest in you, your well-being, your security, and your future. Employees have access to a 401(k) plan, as well as legally mandated benefits.

Pay

The base salary range for this position is $70,900.00 to $97,500.00; pay will be hourly based on hours worked. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

Schedule

Frequent travel is expected for the position. Candidates must be able to work 8 to 10 hour days in a variety of conditions and understand that there will be frequent stays away from the office. We empower employees with our hybrid working policy, allowing them to split their work week between Jacobs offices/projects and remote locations.