Study the origin, development, and behavior of human beings. May study the way of life, language, or physical characteristics of people in various parts of the world. May engage in systematic recovery and examination of material evidence, such as tools or pottery remaining from past human cultures, in order to determine the history, customs, and living habits of earlier civilizations.
SOC: 19-3091.00
Common Job Titles
Archaeologist
Communication and Folklore Specialist
Forensic Anthropologist
Researcher
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeSynthesize anthropological research findings across multiple data sources integrating ethnographic, linguistic, and physical evidence to develop comprehensive theories of human behavior and cultural development.
Advanced
KnowledgeFormulate research designs and methodological approaches for investigating human origins, cultural evolution, and behavioral patterns across diverse geographical regions.
Advanced
KnowledgeCompose scholarly publications, research reports, and grant proposals communicating complex anthropological findings to academic, public, and professional audiences through written and visual media.
Advanced
KnowledgeAnalyze material evidence from archaeological excavations using laboratory equipment and systematic recovery methods to determine historical patterns and cultural practices.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate the historical significance and authenticity of artifacts and human remains applying knowledge of sociology, anthropology, and history in field and laboratory settings.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate ethical research principles with preservation mandates when handling human remains and culturally sensitive materials in accordance with professional standards and legal requirements.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret linguistic, physical, and cultural characteristics of human populations synthesizing data from multiple subdisciplines to explain patterns of human adaptation and social organization.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for the preservation and protection of archaeological sites and cultural heritage collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, government agencies, and indigenous communities to ensure responsible stewardship.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform systematic excavation and documentation of archaeological sites using specialized tools such as trowels, shovels, GPS receivers, and total stations under varying field conditions.
Developing
Hands-onOperate advanced laboratory equipment including electron microscopes and spectrophotometers to conduct material analysis and DNA sequencing of archaeological specimens following established scientific protocols.
Developing
KnowledgeApply GIS software and statistical analysis tools to map archaeological sites, analyze spatial patterns, and interpret quantitative data using ESRI ArcGIS and IBM SPSS Statistics.
Developing
MindsetEngage with diverse cultural communities and research participants demonstrating cultural sensitivity and respect when conducting ethnographic fieldwork and collecting oral histories.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Anthropologists and Archeologists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
8,070
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $44,510. 25th percentile: U.S. $51,240. 50th percentile: U.S. $64,910. 75th percentile: U.S. $83,080. 90th percentile: U.S. $104,510. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$44,510
10% of workers earn the following or more
$104,510
Workers on average earn
$71,070
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Sociology and Anthropology4.9/5
English Language4.4/5
History and Archeology4.2/5
Foreign Language4.0/5
Education and Training3.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Adobe Acrobat
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe InDesign
Adobe Photoshop
Autodesk AutoCAD
C++
ESRI ArcGIS software
Facebook
IBM SPSS Statistics
Microsoft Access
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Office software
Microsoft Outlook
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft SharePoint
Microsoft Windows
Microsoft Word
SAS
Structured query language SQL
The MathWorks MATLAB
Technology Skills
Adobe Dreamweaver
Adobe PageMaker
Age progression software
Apple Final Cut Express
Apple iMovie
Applied Biosystems GeneMapper
Archeological Sites Management Information System ASMIS
