Principal Investigator (Archaeology) - Pacific Northwest Focus

About the role

As a Principal Investigator at SRI, you are a strategic and scientific leader at the forefront of CRM. You’ll guide projects from the proposal and design phases through completion—developing research strategies, overseeing fieldwork, mentoring project teams, and producing high-quality technical reports. Whether conducting Class III inventories, leading excavations, or synthesizing complex data into compelling interpretations, you play a key role in advancing archaeological research and preservation across the western United States.

Responsibilities

• Lead compelling archaeological field investigations—from rugged backcountry surveys to complex data recovery projects across Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.
• Develop and implement region-specific research designs and field strategies rooted in Northwest cultural traditions and environmental contexts.
• Mentor and manage field crews, lab staff, and project directors.
• Collaborate with tribal communities, state and federal agencies, and private clients to ensure respectful and legally compliant practices.
• Write and review high-quality technical reports that meet both professional and regulatory standards.
• Manage budgets, schedules, and deliverables with clarity, integrity, and efficiency.
• Play a key role in expanding SRI’s presence in the Pacific Northwest region.

Requirements

• A Master’s degree or higher in Anthropology or Archaeology
• Registered Professional Archaeologist (RPA) certification
• Meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards
• Deep familiarity with PNW cultural resources, regional histories, and archaeological materials
• Strong understanding of NHPA Section 106, Washington DAHP requirements, and tribal consultation protocols
• Demonstrated leadership, communication, and technical writing skills

Qualifications

• Principal Investigator I: 10+ years of CRM experience, including successful management of small to mid-sized projects, leading field teams, and producing defensible technical reports.
• Principal Investigator II: All PI I qualifications, plus experience managing complex or multi-state projects, mentoring junior staff, and contributing to client development and proposal writing.
• Senior Principal Investigator: Demonstrated leadership on large-scale or regionally significant CRM efforts. Strong business development skills, advanced technical or analytical expertise, and strategic contributions to company-wide initiatives.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• 401k with optional company match
• Professional development and conference support
• A supportive, collaborative team environment with regional autonomy and real opportunity to shape your work.

Pay

Competitive salary: $85,000–$100,000+ depending on experience and level