Principal Investigator (Archaeology) - WA

About the position

As a Principal Investigator at SRI, you are a strategic and scientific leader at the forefront of CRM. You’ll guide projects from design 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.

What You’ll Do

• 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.

What You Bring

• 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
• Excellent leadership, communication, and technical writing skills

Tiered Opportunities

• 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.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary: $80,000 – $100,000+ depending on experience and level
• Full suite of benefits:
• Medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Retailment plan with company contribution
• Professional development and conference support
• A supportive, collaborative team environment with regional autonomy and real opportunity to shape your work.

Ready to Join Us?

If you’re passionate about preserving the past while shaping your professional future, SRI wants to hear from you. Please send your resume, cover letter, and a writing sample to srijobs@sricrm.com with the subject line: “Principal Investigator – Ellensburg, WA”, noting the Principal Investigator level for which you’d like to be considered.

Statistical Research, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We welcome diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.