How to Be Underwater Archeologist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Dec 15, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Underwater archeology is a field of study that is dedicated to the exploration of submerged sites. It allows researchers to uncover and analyze artifacts, structures, and other evidence related to past cultures and civilizations. These findings can help to provide important insights into the history of humanity, as well as its impact on the environment.

The effects of underwater archeology can be far-reaching, with implications for conservation, education, and even international politics. For example, by uncovering shipwrecks, researchers can gain an understanding of maritime trade routes and the impact they had on global economies. Furthermore, by researching sunken cities, researchers can gain a better understanding of past societies and their impact on the environment.

By studying these sites, archaeologists can gain valuable information about the culture, customs, and beliefs of past civilizations.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelors Degree. Obtain a bachelors degree in archaeology, anthropology, history, or a related field. Most employers require applicants to have a minimum of a bachelors degree or equivalent experience.
Gain Work Experience. Get as much field experience as possible through internships and volunteer opportunities. Participation in field schools and archaeological research projects is also beneficial.
Pursue an Advanced Degree. Consider earning an advanced degree in underwater archeology, such as a masters degree or Ph . D. Many employers prefer to hire candidates with advanced degrees in this area.
Obtain Certification. The Archaeological Institute of America and other organizations offer certification programs for underwater archaeologists. Certification may be required by some employers.
Develop Technical Skills. Underwater archeologists must be proficient in using scuba diving gear, GPS systems, and other underwater equipment. Consider taking classes to develop these skills.
Join Professional Organizations. Join professional organizations such as the Society for Historical Archaeology and the International Congress of Underwater Archaeology. These organizations provide networking opportunities as well as access to job postings and other resources.

Becoming an underwater archaeologist requires dedication, hard work, and specialized skills. To become ideal and qualified in this field, individuals must possess a strong background in the sciences and humanities, such as history, archaeology, and anthropology. They must also have a good understanding of marine biology and be comfortable working underwater.

they must be knowledgeable in the use of diving and archaeological equipment and techniques, as well as various computer programs. Having a degree in anthropology or archaeology with a focus on underwater studies is essential to achieving success in this field. With the proper training and experience, underwater archaeologists can have rewarding and successful careers.

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Job Description

Assist in the planning and implementation of underwater archaeological research projects.
Collect, organize, and analyze data gathered from underwater sites.
Perform dives and surveys to map, excavate, and document underwater sites.
Prepare reports and presentations on the findings of underwater exploration.
Identify and preserve artifacts, records, and other materials found in underwater sites.
Work with local and federal agencies to obtain permits for underwater exploration.
Train and supervise volunteers and interns on proper excavation techniques.
Monitor environmental conditions on dive sites to ensure safety.
Collaborate with scientists and researchers to develop new theories and explanations for underwater sites.
Develop educational programs about underwater archaeology for the public.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of archaeology and maritime history
Knowledge of diving and underwater dive technology
Ability to conduct research, analyze data, and interpret findings
Familiarity with geographic information systems (GIS)
Ability to identify and map underwater sites
Knowledge of shipbuilding and nautical history
Familiarity with remote sensing and photogrammetry
Experience with archaeological survey, mapping, and excavation
Knowledge of conservation and preservation techniques
Ability to use electronic surveying and other recording equipment
Ability to analyze artifacts and interpret them in their archaeological context
Strong organizational and communication skills

Being an underwater archaeologist requires a variety of skills, in order to be successful. The most important skill to have is an in-depth knowledge of the underwater environment and its potential archaeological sites. This means having an understanding of the oceanic currents, the seafloor geology, and the potential archaeological sites.

A thorough understanding of the historical context of archaeological sites is also essential, as it helps to determine the types of artifacts that could be found. In addition, underwater archaeologists must have excellent diving and underwater survey skills, as well as experience in the use of specialized equipment, such as underwater cameras and metal detectors. Finally, underwater archaeologists must have a good sense of teamwork, as they often collaborate with other professionals to conduct research.

All these skills combined enable underwater archaeologists to successfully explore and document underwater archaeological sites, providing new insights into past cultures and civilizations.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to pursue a career in underwater archeology?
What experience do you have in the field of archeology or marine science?
How do you handle working long hours in sometimes difficult and dangerous conditions?
What safety protocols are you familiar with and how do you ensure they are followed?
How would you go about researching an underwater archeological site?
What challenges do you think are unique to underwater archeology?
How do you keep up with the latest methods and technologies in the field?
What methods do you use to analyze and interpret historical artifacts?
How do you decide which artifacts to salvage and which to leave untouched?
What recommendations do you have for preserving underwater sites?

Common Tools in Industry

Sonar. Used to detect objects underwater. (eg: used to locate submerged shipwrecks)
Magnetometer. Used to detect magnetic fields. (eg: used to detect objects with iron components)
Submersible Vehicle. Used to explore underwater sites. (eg: used to investigate a coral reef)
Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). Remotely operated vehicle used to explore and photograph underwater sites. (eg: used to survey an oil rig)
SCUBA Equipment. Equipment used to allow for safe breathing underwater. (eg: used to explore a shipwreck in deep water)
Diving Suit. Protective suit worn by divers to protect from cold and pressure. (eg: used to explore an ancient river bed)
Core Sampler. Tool used to collect samples from the seabed for analysis. (eg: used to investigate sediment layers)
Archaeological Dredge. Tool used to collect artifacts from the seabed. (eg: used to recover pottery shards from a sunken ship)
Pump System. Used to remove sediment and clear debris from sites. (eg: used to clear debris from a shipwreck site)
Digital Imaging Software. Used to create 3D models of objects or sites. (eg: used to create a 3D model of an underwater temple)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Academy of Underwater Sciences
Archaeological Institute of America
European Association of Underwater Archaeologists
International Association of Maritime and Underwater Archaeology
International Council of Monuments and Sites
Society for Historical Archaeology
Society for Underwater Archaeology
United States National Park Service Submerged Cultural Resources Unit

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Common Important Terms

Maritime Archaeology. The study of human activity related to ships, boats, and other watercraft in a marine environment.
Diving Archaeology. The practice of underwater excavation and survey for archaeological purposes.
Maritime Heritage. The collective memory of a community or nation related to its maritime history.
Shipwrecks. The remains of a vessel that has sunk or been wrecked at sea.
Maritime Law. The body of law governing activities related to the sea, including navigation, commercial shipping, fishing, and marine resource management.
Nautical Anthropology. The study of the culture, beliefs, and practices of seafaring peoples.
Marine Geology. The study of the physical features and processes that occur on the seafloor.
Marine Biology. The study of the plants, animals, and other organisms that inhabit the ocean.
Marine Ecology. The study of the interactions between organisms and their environment in the marine environment.
Remote Sensing. The use of technologies such as sonar and satellite imagery to observe and measure conditions in the ocean from a distance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is Underwater Archeology? A1: Underwater archeology is the study and exploration of submerged sites, such as shipwrecks and other artifacts, which are found in bodies of water. Q2: What are the main goals of Underwater Archeology? A2: The main goals of underwater archeology are to document and understand the past and its cultural heritage, to recover artifacts for preservation and display, and to increase public awareness of the importance of underwater sites. Q3: What type of equipment do Underwater Archeologists use? A3: Underwater archeologists use a variety of specialized equipment, such as scuba gear, sonar and imaging systems, GPS systems, dredges, and magnetometers. Q4: How deep can Underwater Archeologists dive? A4: Underwater archeologists can dive to depths of up to 150 meters (492 feet). Q5: What is the purpose of archaeological dives? A5: The purpose of archaeological dives is to document, map, and understand submerged sites, as well as to recover and preserve artifacts.