How to Be Archaeological Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 11, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Archaeological technicians are responsible for documenting, preserving, and analyzing artifacts found in archaeological sites. They also assist in the preparation and excavation of archaeological sites. As a result, they play an important role in uncovering and understanding the history of past civilizations.

Furthermore, the work of archaeological technicians helps to inform the public about the history of these civilizations and to create a better understanding of the past. archaeological technicians may specialize in different areas such as geology, anthropology, or history, which helps to provide a more comprehensive analysis of artifacts and the culture that created them. Lastly, this work can lead to a better appreciation of archaeological sites and help to protect them from vandalism and destruction.

Steps How to Become

Earn a bachelor's degree. Most employers require that archaeological technicians possess at least a bachelor's degree in anthropology, archaeology, anthropology-related fields like geology, history, or sociology, or a related field like cultural resource management.
Develop technical skills. Archaeological technicians work with a variety of equipment, from computers to ground-penetrating radar, to help collect and analyze data. It is important to develop and maintain skills in the use of these tools.
Get field experience. Field experience is often required for archaeological technician positions. To gain this experience, interns may volunteer on archaeological excavations or participate in field schools.
Complete archaeological field school. To gain additional experience and credentials, interns may also complete an archaeological field school, which provides an intensive learning experience in the field.
Become certified. To become certified as an archaeological technician, individuals must pass an examination administered by the Society for American Archaeology (SAA). Achieving certification can demonstrate a commitment to the profession and can lead to higher salaries.
Pursue continuing education. Continuing education opportunities are available through organizations such as the SAA and through professional development courses offered by universities and other organizations.

In order to keep updated and capable as an Archaeological Technician, it is important to stay informed of the latest industry developments. This can be achieved by attending seminars, conferences, and other professional events. staying current with new technologies and best practices is essential to being successful.

Staying informed through publications, such as journals and magazines, is also a great way to stay up to date. Finally, networking with others in the field is essential to staying abreast of current trends and opportunities. By investing time and effort in these activities, an Archaeological Technician can remain knowledgeable and capable in their field.

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Job Description

Assist archaeologists in the field, including excavation, surveying, mapping, and laboratory analysis
Collect and document archaeological data, including site location and condition, artifacts, and features
Assist in the preparation of field notes and artifact catalogs
Assisting in the restoration of archaeological sites
Prepare site reports, research reports, and other documents related to archaeological projects
Maintain archaeological site records, including databases and archives
Assist in the development of educational materials related to archaeology
Participate in public outreach programs to promote archaeology and cultural heritage
Assist in the development of educational curricula related to archaeology
Participate in special projects as assigned by the lead archaeologist

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of archaeological field and laboratory methods
Ability to use survey instruments and excavation tools
Proficiency in data collection and analysis
Proficiency in report writing
Ability to interpret archaeological data
Ability to follow instructions accurately
Ability to work independently
Ability to work as part of a team
Knowledge of relevant health and safety regulations
Knowledge of relevant local and federal laws
Knowledge of cultural resource management principles and practices
Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software
Ability to identify and date artifacts
Ability to use photography techniques for recording archaeological sites
Ability to communicate effectively in writing, verbally, and electronically

Archaeological technicians are essential to the successful completion of archaeological research. Their specialized skills in data collection, analysis, and interpretation are essential in uncovering the past. As such, one of the most important skills an archaeological technician must possess is the ability to accurately collect data and properly document their findings.

This includes using various tools and techniques to gather information in the field, such as surveying, digging, mapping, and photography. they must be able to interpret data from artifacts, features, and other sources in order to accurately reconstruct past events. Finally, they must be able to share their findings with the public in a clear and concise manner.

Without these skills, archaeological research would not be possible.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working as an archaeological technician?
How would you go about conducting an archaeological survey?
What is your experience in using GIS and GPS systems?
What techniques have you used to record archaeological artifacts?
How have you maintained and managed archaeological data?
Describe a time when you have successfully collaborated with other professionals in the field?
How have you kept up with the latest developments in archaeological technology?
What challenges have you encountered while working as an archaeological technician?
What methods have you used to analyze and interpret archaeological data?
What safety protocols have you implemented while conducting archaeological field work?

Common Tools in Industry

Trowel. Used to dig, scrape, and sift soil. (eg: used to carefully remove dirt from around artifacts)
Screen. A mesh-like tool used for sifting and separating soil and artifacts. (eg: used to separate small artifacts from soil)
Brush. Used to brush away dirt and debris from artifacts. (eg: used to clean pottery shards)
Meter. Used to measure distances between artifacts. (eg: used to measure the distance between two postholes)
Total Station. An instrument that electronically measures and records the three-dimensional coordinates of objects or points. (eg: used to measure and record the exact location of an artifact)
Geophysical Survey Instruments. Tools used to measure electrical properties of soils and rocks, magnetic fields, and other properties that can provide information about subsurface archaeological features. (eg: used to detect buried walls and other features)
Digital Camera. Used to document the archaeological site and artifacts. (eg: used to take photographs of artifacts in situ)
GPS Unit. Used to accurately measure the location of an archaeological site or feature. (eg: used to identify the exact location of a feature on a map)

Professional Organizations to Know

Society for American Archaeology
American Anthropological Association
Society of Professional Archaeologists
Archaeological Institute of America
World Archaeological Congress
National Association of Professional Archaeologists
Archaeology Society of America
International Association for Landscape Archaeology
International Council on Monuments and Sites
National Trust for Historic Preservation

We also have Archaeological Surveyor, GIS Technician, and Soil Scientist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Archaeology. The study of human activity in the past, through the recovery and analysis of artifacts and other physical evidence.
Archaeological Site. A location where evidence of past human activity has been preserved.
Artifact. A physical object created or modified by humans, or evidence of their activity, that can be dated and studied to learn about past cultures.
Stratigraphy. The study of the layers of soil, rocks, and artifacts found at archaeological sites.
Excavation. The process of digging up an archaeological site to uncover artifacts or other remains.
Curation. The process of preserving and protecting archaeological artifacts for study and display.
Cultural Resource Management (CRM). The practice of safeguarding cultural heritage while preserving archaeological sites and artifacts.
Laboratory Analysis. The use of scientific methods to analyze artifacts and other evidence from archaeological sites.
Mapping. The use of survey instruments, photographs, and other technologies to accurately map archaeological sites.
Fieldwork. The process of collecting data at an archaeological site, including excavation, survey, and mapping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is an Archaeological Technician? A1: An Archaeological Technician is a professional who assists in the identification, preservation and study of archaeological materials and sites. Q2: What qualifications are required to become an Archaeological Technician? A2: A minimum of a Bachelor's degree in archaeology or a related field is usually required to become an Archaeological Technician. Additional qualifications may include experience working in the field, knowledge of laboratory techniques, and computer skills. Q3: What duties does an Archaeological Technician perform? A3: An Archaeological Technician may perform a variety of duties, including excavation, analysis and cataloging of artifacts, mapping and surveying sites, and helping to prepare reports. Q4: How much does an Archaeological Technician typically earn? A4: According to PayScale.com, the median salary for an Archaeological Technician is $44,341 per year. Q5: What career opportunities are available for Archaeological Technicians? A5: Archaeological Technicians can find employment in many different fields, including museums, universities, government agencies, and private companies. They may also pursue higher education and research positions.

Web Resources

Archaeological Technician Certificate - University of Idaho www.uidaho.edu
Archaeological Technician :: Program of Study - nwc.edu www.nwc.edu
Sonoma State University | Details - Archaeological Technician employment.sonoma.edu