How to apply for Archaeology Technician

About AECOM

AECOM is a global infrastructure and environmental consulting powerhouse, known for delivering complex, sustainable solutions across transportation, water, and energy sectors. Working here means joining a worldwide network of experts and contributing to high-profile projects that shape communities, all while building a career with a firm that prioritizes innovation and technical excellence.

About the role

As an Archaeology Technician II, you'll be a key part of AECOM's field team, conducting archaeological surveys and site documentation primarily in Oregon and Washington. This on-call, remote position offers flexible, project-based work that directly supports cultural resource management for infrastructure and environmental projects. Your fieldwork will help identify and preserve cultural resources, ensuring compliance with regulations and contributing to responsible development.

A typical day

A typical day might start early at a remote field site, where you'll conduct pedestrian surveys or excavate shovel test pits under the direction of a Crew Chief. You'll record artifacts, take detailed notes, and use GPS to map findings, then return to a hotel or base to process data and prepare for the next day's work. Days can vary from 8 to 12 hours, depending on project needs and weather conditions.

Who AECOM is looking for

• Has a bachelor's degree in archaeology, anthropology, or a related field, plus at least 1-2 years of prior archaeological field experience (e.g., survey, excavation, or monitoring).
• Is physically capable of conducting fieldwork in diverse PNW environments (forests, mountains, coastlines) and willing to travel overnight for multi-day sessions.
• Possesses strong attention to detail for recording precise field data, sketching features, and using GPS/GIS technology.
• Demonstrates flexibility and reliability, as this is an on-call role with varying schedules, and can work effectively under a Crew Chief or Field Director.

Tips for this application

• Highlight any specific experience with Pacific Northwest archaeology, including knowledge of local prehistoric and historic site types, tribal consultation, or state regulations (e.g., Oregon SHPO, Washington DAHP).
• Emphasize your availability and flexibility for on-call, remote work—mention your willingness to travel overnight and adjust to short-notice assignments.
• Quantify your fieldwork experience: list number of projects, acreage surveyed, or sites recorded to demonstrate hands-on competence.
• Show familiarity with AECOM's tools and methods: mention GPS units (e.g., Trimble), GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS), and field documentation protocols.
• Tailor your resume to include keywords from the job description, such as 'cultural resources,' 'field supervisor,' 'health and safety protocols,' and 'data collection.'

What to cover in your cover letter

In your cover letter, emphasize: 1) Your specific field experience in the Pacific Northwest or similar environments, including any survey or excavation work. 2) Your ability to work independently and adapt to on-call scheduling, highlighting past remote or travel-heavy roles. 3) Your commitment to safety and adherence to protocols, with examples from previous fieldwork. 4) Your interest in AECOM's environmental mission and how you can contribute to their cultural resource management projects.

Research before applying

• Explore AECOM's Environment Business Line and recent cultural resources projects in the Pacific Northwest to understand their client base and project types.
• Learn about key regulations and agencies relevant to the role, such as Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, Oregon SHPO, and Washington DAHP.
• Review AECOM's sustainability and infrastructure projects to see how archaeology fits into their broader environmental solutions.
• Check AECOM's careers page and LinkedIn for insights into company culture, employee testimonials, and recent news.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• Describe your experience conducting archaeological surveys in the Pacific Northwest, including any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
• How do you ensure accurate data collection and documentation in the field, especially when working under time constraints?
• Give an example of how you've applied health and safety protocols during fieldwork, particularly in remote or rugged terrain.
• What strategies do you use to work effectively as part of a team under a Crew Chief or Field Director?
• Why are you interested in an on-call, remote position with AECOM, and how do you manage unpredictable schedules?

Common mistakes to avoid

• Avoid applying without highlighting specific field experience—this role requires proven hands-on skills, not just academic knowledge.
• Don't overlook the on-call nature of the position; expressing hesitation about travel or variable hours can disqualify you.
• Steer clear of generic cover letters that don't mention the Pacific Northwest, AECOM's environmental work, or cultural resource management.