Updated January 11, 2023
Archaeology is one of the most interesting and fascinating jobs for historophiles. If you are also one of those who are always curious to know, learn and study history then pursuing a career as an archaeologist is a perfect choice.
If you have studied history, you may have learned about the various human civilizations such as the Harappan, the Greek, and the Chinese civilizations. But, have ever wondered how we know about them, even if they all existed long back in the history of human existence?
The simple answer is Archaeology. Yes, it is because of the numerous archaeologists who put in a lot of effort to locate and excavate information about ancient civilizations. They look into everything from the creation of the first stone tool to the development of wheels.
In order to improve our understanding of the ancient economic, social, political, and intellectual activity, archaeologists find and analyze artifacts and structures.
The term “archaeology” is derived from the Greek word “arkhaios,” which means “ancient.” In one line, archaeology means “the study of ancient history”.
Types of an Archaeologist
There are many fields of archaeology available for a candidate to select from. Here are some popular and common types:
Historic Building Officer: The protection of historical sites and monuments is the responsibility of a historic building officer. The work entails advocating for the preservation of historical sites and artifacts.
Museum Education Officer: A person who manages a museum’s activities, gives lectures, gives tours of the museum, conducts workshops, and other educational activities is called a museum education officer.
Heritage Manager: Professionals who manage and protect historical sites, such as buildings, forts, ancient monuments, and landscapes, are known as heritage managers. They take care of these locations so that tourists can experience these historical landmarks.
Documentation Specialist: As a documentation specialist, the person is expected to research historical cultures’ and societies’ written records. Also, they gather and maintain the arrangement of these records.
What Do Archaeologists Do?
An archaeologist’s job involves a variety of duties, such as gathering data and creating systems and data collection methods that are specific to a project or area of expertise.
An excavator gathers all of this data through observations, conversations, and written materials. GPS/GIS and other proprietary software are used to record and manage field observations.
As they prepare reports and present research findings, these anthropologists communicate with team leads, managers, and IT staff through routinely scheduled field status reports and presentations.
They do this by analyzing data, laboratory samples, and other sources of information to find patterns about human life, culture, and origins.
How to Become an Archaeologist?
The first is to complete a 10+2 study in any stream with a respectable percentage. Any student can choose to become an archaeologist irrespective of their stream.
However, it is preferable if the student takes humanities and social sciences in 10+2, as this will contribute to a solid foundation.
One must do BA courses like the Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology and Museology or the Bachelor of Arts in Indian History, Culture, and Archaeology after passing the 10+2 exam.
There are numerous colleges and universities that offer a history bachelor’s degree programme. It can assist a student in pursuing a career in Archaeology.
The two choices for an archaeologist profession after earning a bachelor’s degree are as follows:
Option 1: After earning a bachelor’s degree, a student can begin working as an archaeologist right away. A bachelor’s degree holder typically holds junior-level roles.
Option 2: A student may choose to pursue postgraduate studies in the relevant field after earning a bachelor’s degree. After earning a master’s degree, one can pursue a Ph.D. and serve as a museum curator. They can also enter the field of education and teach students in colleges.
What are the Skills Required to Become an Archaeologist?
To become an archaeologist, you will need to have a strong foundation in a variety of skills, including:
Strong communication skills: Archaeologists need to be able to communicate their findings effectively to a variety of audiences, including other scientists, government agencies, and the general public.
Attention to detail: Archaeologists must be able to pay close attention to detail, as they often work with small and fragile artifacts that require careful handling.
Physical stamina: Archaeologists often work in outdoor field conditions and may need to be able to lift and carry heavy equipment.
Problem-solving skills: Archaeologists must be able to think critically and creatively in order to solve problems that arise during their research.
Analytical skills: Archaeologists must be able to analyze the data they collect and draw meaningful conclusions from it.
Writing skills: Archaeologists must be able to write clear and concise reports about their findings and publish their research in scientific journals.
Research skills: Archaeologists must be able to design and conduct scientific research projects, including developing research questions, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting their findings.
Knowledge of relevant scientific techniques: Archaeologists use a variety of scientific techniques, such as radiocarbon dating and geophysical surveys, to study the past. It is important for archaeologists to be familiar with these techniques and how to use them effectively.
Cultural sensitivity: Archaeologists must be sensitive to the cultural significance of the sites they study and be respectful of the people and communities connected to those sites.
Adaptability: Archaeologists often work in challenging and dynamic environments, and they must be able to adapt to changing circumstances and solve problems on the fly.
How Much Does an Archaeologist Earn?
Due to their high skill levels and specialization in their fields, archaeologists are paid well and have access to numerous advantages.
Archaeologists are in high demand for a variety of positions, making it a challenging career. In a variety of sectors of archaeology, employers are continually looking for the best and most experienced people. The followings are some archaeological professional roles and their typical salaries:
| Jobs | Average Base Salary |
| Field Technician | ₹2,00,666 per year. |
| Archaeologist | ₹3,53,162 per year. |
| Property Preservation Specialist | ₹4,25,402 per year. |
| GIS Specialist | ₹4,85,643 per year. |
| Archaeology Professor | ₹7,82,643 per year. |
| Curatorial Assistant | ₹42,497 per month. |
| Historian | ₹10,87,957 per year. |