Archaeological Field Crew Chief

Archaeological Field Crew Chief

Requisition Number: 2026-1610-03

Are you eager to deepen your cultural resource expertise through handson experience across diverse regions and project types? Are you looking to grow as a leader while guiding field teams and shaping the direction of project outcomes? S&ME is looking for an Archaeological Field Crew Chief to join our Environmental team in Columbia, South Carolina.

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What You'll Do:

As an Archaeological Field Crew Chief working out of our Columbia, South Carolina office, you will play a crucial role in supporting cultural resource projects through fieldwork, historical research, and client consultations. Your work will directly contribute to the preservation and understanding of historical and cultural artifacts, ensuring that our projects are conducted with the highest level of accuracy and integrity.

• Field and Lab Work: Perform and direct field/lab technician fieldwork, laboratory analysis, research, and report preparation.
• Artifact Processing: Process basic artifacts in the laboratory.
• Research and Collection: Conduct fieldwork and background research, including artifact collection.
• Project Support: Assist with project support activities such as work plan and proposal preparation, project scheduling, deadline tracking, and budget evaluation and analysis.
• Historical Research: Perform basic historical research.

This position requires extensive travel throughout the Southeast, Midwest and Mid-Atlantic.

What We Are Looking For:

We are looking for someone who brings strong problemsolving skills, clear communication, and sound judgment to every project, even when working under tight deadlines or shifting conditions. A passion for cultural heritage, a commitment to highquality work, and the ability to lead with both confidence and humility will help you excel in this role.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in anthropology, archaeology, history, or a related field
  
  
  
  • Master's degree or PhD in anthropology, archaeology, history, or a related field, a plus
  
  
  
  
• Experience: Minimum of 4 years of archaeological experience
• Key Competencies:
  
  
  
  • National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) Section 106 training
  
  
  
  

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

This role involves hands-on work in outdoor environments, and with Company-provided Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), you'll need to be comfortable with:

• Working outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Walking over rough, uneven terrain and standing (potentially up to 12 hours a day)
• Routinely lifting and carrying 40-50lbs
• Working outside of normal business hours and travelling (typically out-of-town and/or overnight) as project needs arise

We Are S&ME:

At S&ME, we're committed to your growth, professionally and personally. With over 50 years of experience delivering innovative solutions in geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction materials engineering, we've built a strong foundation for long-term careers. Our team of over 1,000 employee-owners across 10+ states collaborates to create a meaningful impact on our clients and communities. When you join S&ME, you become part of a collaborative, honest, and people-focused culture that invests in your success. We offer exciting project opportunities, ongoing training, and a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family. This is more than a job; it's a place to grow, thrive, and build a future.

What We Offer:

Comprehensive Health & Wellness Programs

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
• Wellness Program offering $50 off per month on 2027 premiums
• Pet Insurance for your furry family members

Ownership & Financial Perks

• 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
• 401(k) Retirement Plan to help you plan ahead
• Term Life & Long-Term Care Coverage - available Spring 2026

Work-Life Balance & Career Development

• Paid Holidays, PTO with rollover options, and Paid Maternity & Paternity Leave
• Mentorship & Career Development Programs, Tuition Reimbursement, and Credential Incentive Program
• Employee Recognition Program, $2,000 Referral Bonuses, and a company vehicle & fuel card for project-based roles

If you're passionate about making an impact and want to work with a firm committed to our employees and providing quality service to our clients, we'd love to hear from you!

This full-time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk-ins are accepted.