Archaeology - Principal Investigator

Who We Are
Atwell, LLC is a bold leader in the consulting, engineering, and construction services industry, delivering a broad range of creative solutions to clients in the real estate & land development, and energy markets. We have a strong national presence and a diverse, award-winning project portfolio. Atwell is a privately owned company, with 2,000+ passionate team members across 75+ locations and growing!
Atwell, LLC is a proud recipient of the following 2025 awards:
• Ten consecutive years in a row as a “Best Place to Work” by Zweig Group (#11)
• Recognized as #70 in the ENR Top 500 Design Firms, ranked in every region
• Recognized in Crain's “Fast 50” as one of the fastest-growing companies (#14)
• Recognized as the 2025 ENR Design Firm of the year for the Southeastern US
Atwell is seeking a full-time Archaeological Principal Investigator to conduct, oversee, and direct field investigations, implementing procedures established by our clients and our firm. Projects range from small, self-performed field investigations or supervising a field crews. The Principal Investigator will be responsible for performing tasks associated with archaeological investigations and surveys within the archaeological project area; completing project documentation and reports; as well as coordinating fieldwork, scheduling, reporting, and any other project needs with leaders and clients. A successful candidate will be self-motivated, have time management skills, and have a working knowledge of both state and federal regulations. This position will be remote and can report to any of our 76 offices as needed.
The Principal Investigator will be responsible for the following: • Completing initial project reviews for our clients and project managers. • Performing pedestrian walkover surveys, controlled surface surveys, and hand excavation (shovel testing), often times solo. • Maintaining field records and paperwork. • Directing archaeological site documentation. • During pedestrian survey, determining types of appropriate survey coverage within the project area. • Ensuring accurate digital recordation of survey data. • Digital recordation and mapping of archaeological sites using an established data dictionary. • Digital data quality control. • Authoring reports, agency letters, Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act request forms, and other documents. • Overall safety of the field crew and ensuring adherence to project safety protocols. • Adhering to all of Atwell and client-directed safety policies and procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). • Coordinate project needs between Project Managers and clients with the rest of the cultural resource group. • Communicating with clients, Project Managers, and other team members.
Qualifications
Archaeology with a graduate degree in archaeology, anthropology, or related science required. • Project-specific certifications and licensure may be required, if applicable.
A graduate degree with a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in a similar leadership capacity conducting pedestrian survey and evaluative site testing fieldwork is preferred. • Knowledge of state-specific cultural resource guidelines is required • Experience with leading field crews.
Working knowledge of word processing, internet browsers, photo management software, and email. • Working knowledge of federal and various state regulations as they pertain to cultural resource management. • Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as percentages, area, ratio, circumference, and volume. • Ability to apply basic mathematical concepts to practical situations. • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general technical procedures and governmental regulations related to cultural and historic preservation. • Ability to write detailed archaeological reports and business correspondence. • Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. • Ability to interpret technical instructions and work with abstract and concrete variables.
Disclaimer
While AI tools may support your application process, this role is built on human talent. Your judgment, experience, and character matter most, so we encourage you to showcase what makes you uniquely you.
Atwell does not accept unsolicited resumes from any 3rd party agencies. No fee will be paid to 3rd parties who submit unsolicited resumes to any Atwell employee. Resumes from approved vendors must be specifically requested by Atwell and approved by the Atwell Talent Acquisition Team.
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Pay Range
$71,500
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$88,000 USD
Atwell Benefits: To attract and retain the best professionals in the industry, we aim to provide an excellent working environment and a progressive benefits program designed to support your personal and professional needs.
Work/Life
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Paid Parental Leave
• Flexible work schedules are available for some positions
• Tenure Awards — Travel Vouchers to see the world based on your travel preferences
Compensation
• Competitive Compensation packages
• Annual bonuses, spot bonuses and peer recognition awards
• 401K match - 1:1 up to 4% of compensation
• Tuition Assistance
• Student Loan Repayment
• Paid Licensing / Certification Fees and Renewals
• Financial Rewards for Obtaining Licensure
• Employee Referrals
• Annual Wellness Reimbursement for anything wellness related (Gym memberships, fitness tracker, home gym equipment, etc.)
• Dependent Care Match
‘Atwell’ness
• Medical (BC/BS), Dental (Delta), and Vision (VSP)
• Family Planning & IVF Benefits
• Pet Insurance
• Health Savings Account & Flex Spending Account options
• Employer paid LTD, STD, and life insurance
• Metlife Supplemental Benefits covering accident, hospitalization, and critical illness
• Member Assistance Program (MAP) with complimentary counseling sessions, legal benefits, financial consultations, and work/life referral services