Principal Investigator - Cultural Resources / Archaeology

Job Title: Archaeological Crew Chief

Location: Northern Plains Region (North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Montana)

Job Type: Project-Based / Seasonal

Project Duration: Approximately 2–3 months

Schedule: Up to 6 days per week, 8–10 hour field days

Position Overview:
We are seeking an experienced Archaeological Crew Chief to lead a field team on a large pipeline cultural resources project in the Northern Plains. This role will oversee daily field operations for one of two survey crews and ensure high-quality documentation of cultural resources while maintaining safety and coordination with project leadership.

The Crew Chief will supervise field technicians and work closely with Traditional Cultural Specialists (TCS) to identify and document cultural resources across the project area.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and supervise a field crew consisting of 2 Field Technicians and 3 Traditional Cultural Specialists (TCS)

• Conduct and oversee pedestrian surveys along a 300-foot-wide right-of-way (ROW)

• Identify, document, and record cultural resources including archaeological sites, historic sites, architectural resources, stone features, and isolated finds

• Ensure proper documentation and recording of resources using Field Maps and other digital recording tools

• Work collaboratively with Traditional Cultural Specialists to identify and document stone features and culturally significant resources

• Ensure all field data and records are properly completed, organized, and synced at the end of each workday when possible

• Report daily findings and progress updates to the Project Field Director

• Maintain field equipment, ensure vehicle readiness, and confirm the crew is prepared and positioned to complete daily survey tasks

• Enforce field safety protocols and ensure crew compliance with project standards

• Support collaboration and coordination with the second Crew Chief and Project Field Director as needed

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of 5 years of cultural resource fieldwork experience

• At least 2 years of experience working in the Northern Plains region

• Demonstrated experience identifying and recording stone features

• Experience collaborating with Traditional Cultural Specialists or Tribal representatives in the field

• Strong experience using Field Maps or similar digital field recording platforms

• Ability to lead field crews, manage logistics, and maintain high-quality documentation standards

Preferred Qualifications:

• Coursework or degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or a related field (preferred but not required)

• Prior experience leading archaeological survey crews on large infrastructure or pipeline projects

• Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills

Physical & Field Requirements:

• Ability to walk 5–10 miles per day over uneven terrain

• Ability to work 8–10 hour field days , potentially 6 days per week

• Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions

• Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds with respect and collaboration

Project Details:
Initial fieldwork is expected to run for approximately two months , with the potential for an additional month of reroutes and ancillary surveys depending on project needs.

This is an excellent opportunity for experienced field leaders who enjoy working in collaborative environments and contributing to meaningful cultural resource projects across the Northern Plains.


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