As-Needed Staff Archaeologist

As-Needed Staff Archaeologist – Nor CA

Looking for flexibility, variety, and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful cultural resource projects throughout California? HELIX Environmental Planning is seeking qualified Staff Archaeologists to join our as-needed team. We are building a roster of talented professionals who can support a variety of cultural resources projects across Northern and Central California. This is an excellent opportunity for experienced archaeologists seeking project-based field and office assignments with a respected environmental consulting firm.

Why HELIX?

At HELIX, we recognize that many archaeological professionals value flexibility and diverse field experiences. Our Staff Archaeologists have opportunities to work on a wide range of projects, collaborate with experienced cultural resources specialists, and gain exposure to different project types, clients, and regulatory environments across California. Whether you're looking to supplement existing work, expand your consulting experience, or maintain an active role in cultural resources management, HELIX offers rewarding project opportunities and a collaborative team environment.

 Day in the Life

As a Staff Archaeologist, no two days are the same. You may spend one week conducting archaeological surveys in the Central Valley, Sierran foothills, or Bay Area, and the next analyzing historic maps, performing records research, coordinating with Native American tribes, or supporting cultural resource reports. This Staff Archaeologist role offers opportunities for extended field assignments, collaboration with senior cultural resources staff, and hands-on involvement in projects that protect and preserve cultural resources throughout California.

What You'll Do

• Conduct and support archaeological surveys, monitoring, and site documentation.
• Complete CHRIS records searches and analyze results.
• Research historic-era maps and aerial photographs.
• Assist with Native American tribal outreach and coordination.
• Prepare field notes, photographs, sketch maps, GPS data, and DPR forms.
• Deliver Workers Environmental Awareness Training with a cultural resources focus.
• Support cultural resources reporting and technical writing assignments.
• Collaborate with senior cultural resources staff to develop effective cultural resource management solutions.
• Travel for fieldwork assignments, including multi-day and multi-week deployments when needed.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or a related field.
• 3+ years of professional cultural resources management experience (field school may substitute for one year).
• Strong written, verbal, organizational, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience with archaeological survey, resource documentation, field data collection, and data management.
• Ability to work in remote locations, challenging terrain, and varying weather conditions.
• Ability to travel and conduct extended field assignments.
• Familiarity with handheld GPS units.
• Knowledge of Northern and Central California archaeology.
• Valid California driver's license, clean driving record, and reliable transportation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or related field.
• Experience preparing cultural resources technical reports and report sections.
• Experience summarizing previous cultural resources studies.
• Extensive DPR form preparation and site update experience.
• Familiarity with CEQA and Section 106 compliance requirements.
• Secretary of the Interior (SOI) professional qualifications in archaeology.
• HAZWOPER certification.

Pay Range: $30 - $36 per hour, based on experience and qualifications.

If you're an experienced Staff Archaeologist who enjoys diverse project assignments, meaningful cultural resource work, and the flexibility of as-needed employment, we'd love to connect with you. Apply today to join HELIX's growing network of Staff Archaeologists and be considered for upcoming field and office opportunities throughout Northern and Central California.

HELIX is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and an inclusive work environment. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply regardless of gender, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, disability, age, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service or veteran status. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs.