Archaeologist Principal Investigator/Field Director SOUTHWEST

About the role

Career Opportunity: Archaeologist Principal Investigator / Field Director

Sundance Consultants, operating as a division of True Environmental in collaboration with affiliated partner firms, has consolidated its organizational capabilities to form a leading environmental and engineering services consultancy. This entity delivers a broad spectrum of services intended to transform the built landscape and protect the natural one. The company's scope includes environmental remediation, urban planning, the design of coastal and marine infrastructure, sustainable energy development, and innovative resource extraction techniques. A workforce exceeding 450 specialists, encompassing environmental scientists, engineers, planners, and construction experts, supports operations across more than 20 offices in the United States. Further information regarding the organization's complete service offerings is available at Sundance-inc.com and True-Environmental.com.

The organization is seeking an Archaeologist Principal Investigator / Field Director to manage cultural resources field operations and support the growth of archaeology services throughout the greater Southwestern United States. This position entails responsibility for directing and executing all stages of cultural resource investigations in compliance with Section 106 and 110 of the National Historic Preservation Act, as well as other environmental planning initiatives. These duties include, but are not limited to, consultation, the preparation of data recovery and monitoring plans, field coordination, interpretation of relevant state and federal statutes, and the production of reports. The role may also require familiarity with the National Environmental Policy Act and the integration of cultural resource considerations into proposed permitting documentation.

The successful candidate will supervise and provide guidance to junior and temporary cultural resource personnel. Regular interaction with clients, agency representatives, and Tribal officials will be required. The position holder must possess a thorough understanding of federal, state, and local historic preservation regulations and demonstrate a defined area of analytical or research expertise. Leadership of field teams, design of field methodologies, oversight of data management, and the development of final deliverables are core responsibilities.

Position Details

Location: USA

Engagement: Full-time

Compensation: $130,000 to $160,000 annually

Key Responsibilities

The role involves designing strategic approaches for complex cultural sites while effectively managing field crews. The position holder will coordinate with regulatory agencies and tribal entities to ensure alignment of project objectives and compliance requirements. Interpretation of state and federal preservation laws will guide the implementation of appropriate field methodologies.

Specific duties include the supervision of excavation documentation, artifact record-keeping, and adherence to strict data standards. The preparation of clear and precise reports that detail methods, findings, and regulatory compliance is essential. Mentoring of junior staff through training, constructive feedback, and on-site coordination is a required function. The position also encompasses the management of project timelines, budgets, and schedules to satisfy demanding client expectations.

Required Qualifications

Applicants must hold a relevant academic background in archaeology or a related discipline, supported by demonstrable field experience. A comprehensive understanding of National Historic Preservation Act regulations, specifically Sections 106 and 110, is mandatory. Knowledge of National Environmental Policy Act rules as they pertain to cultural resources is required.

The candidate must exhibit proven leadership abilities to manage field teams and communicate effectively with both clients and government personnel. Familiarity with local, state, and federal preservation policies is essential. Prior experience in designing fieldwork and managing associated data for cultural projects is required. The ability to prepare detailed reports that meet regulatory and client standards is critical. A strong analytical skill set and a professional interest in archaeological research are expected.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with coastal and marine engineering projects and work at sustainable energy sites is considered a valuable asset.

No specific tools or software are mandated for this position.

Application Notes

Prospective candidates are advised to verify details regarding the application process What you'll do