Anthropologists and Archeologists
Anthropologists and archeologists study human origins, development, and behavior across cultures and time periods. Some examine living societies through fieldwork and interviews, while others excavate and analyze physical artifacts like tools and pottery from past civilizations. They work in universities, museums, government agencies, and field sites worldwide.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against anthropologists and archeologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Work varies by specialization. Archeologists might spend weeks at excavation sites carefully removing and documenting artifacts, then months in laboratories cleaning and analyzing finds. Anthropologists conduct interviews and observations in communities, take extensive notes, and review existing research. Both roles involve writing reports, presenting findings, consulting with colleagues, and managing detailed records of their investigations.
Who this work suits
Holland code IAR. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You enjoy solving puzzles about human history and culture, approaching questions systematically and creatively. You're comfortable with detailed analytical work and visual or artistic interpretation of evidence, whether examining artifacts or documenting cultural practices.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Openings right now
- Archeologist · National Park Service · Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado · $61722–$80243
- Archeologist · Natural Resources Conservation Service · Multiple Locations · $89508–$116362
- Archeologist · National Park Service · Dinosaur, Colorado · $74678–$97087
- Archeologist · Bureau of Reclamation · Billings, Montana · $74678–$97087
- ARCHEOLOGIST · Natural Resources Conservation Service · Des Moines, Iowa · $75284–$117307
- Archeologist · United States Army Installation Management Command · Yakima, Washington · $74678–$97087
- Archeologist (Program Manager) · Customs and Border Protection · Multiple Locations · $125776–$163514
- Archeologist (Seasonal) · National Park Service · Multiple Locations · $24.18–$46.52
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $85,990 | $121,300 | $121,710 | 80 |
| Nebraska | $65,580 | $94,520 | $120,620 | 40 |
| Connecticut | $49,810 | $91,420 | $100,790 | — |
| Alaska | $76,000 | $89,810 | $108,660 | 130 |
| Idaho | $66,390 | $88,710 | $104,250 | 170 |
| Oregon | $73,920 | $84,970 | $105,780 | 240 |
| Hawaii | $76,340 | $84,530 | $111,700 | 210 |
| Virginia | $61,300 | $80,230 | $103,960 | 320 |
| Pennsylvania | $60,090 | $79,660 | $88,370 | 130 |
| Montana | $63,130 | $79,420 | $94,520 | 80 |
| Wyoming | $63,900 | $76,400 | $88,790 | 80 |
| Alabama | $54,070 | $75,690 | $78,630 | 170 |
All 45 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Heritage Interpreter (CHI) — National Association for Interpretation
- Certified Interpretive Planner (CIP) — National Association for Interpretation
- Certified Interpretive Manager (CIM) — National Association for Interpretation
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against anthropologists and archeologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-3091.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.