Archaeologist

Archaeologists study past human societies through recovery, recording, analysis and interpretation of material remains and other evidence that can help shed light on the past. Archaeologists draw upon a wide range of different types of evidence, including cultural artefacts, food remains, skeletal remains, environmental evidence and landscapes.

Archaeologists may perform the following tasks:

• liaise with Indigenous and non-Indigenous community groups
• survey, map and record archaeological sites
• organise and carry out excavations, field surveys and surface collections
• clean, conserve, restore, reconstruct and display material found at archaeological sites
• photograph and/or draw features and artefacts on-site and during post-excavation analysis
• analyse findings through a variety of means including physical and chemical techniques and documentary research
• document the information obtained from the findings in a concise report
• advise individuals and groups on heritage matters, including conservation options and legal provisions
• prepare material for publication.

Specialisations:

Archaeologists may specialise in particular geographic regions or areas of study, such as the identification of animal skeletal or plant remains.

Archaeologists work both indoors and outdoors, in varying locations across Australia and internationally.

Archaeologists may work with a variety of people on excavations, including Indigenous groups, academics from related areas, technical staff, people who live in the vicinity of the archaeological sites, labourers and other workers under their direction.

Archaeologists are making increasing use of new technologies, including geophysical survey devices, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), web-based communication platforms and Global Positioning System (GPS) devices.

Personal Requirements:

• patience, perseverance and determination
• an eye for detail
• enjoy science and history
• aptitude for research
• strong writing skills
• aptitude for working with computers
• able to work as part of a team
• prepared to endure rough and isolated living conditions for extended periods while involved in fieldwork
• able to remain objective.

Related Jobs:

• Anthropologist
• Cultural Heritage Officer
• Geologist
• Historian
• Museum Curator

Education and Training, Employment Opportunities and Additional Information

Select the State/Territory you are interested in:

• NSW/ACT
• NT
• QLD
• SA
• TAS
• VIC
• WA