Principal Investigator – Field Based

ERM

Principal Investigator leading archaeological mitigation and compliance for ERM’s sustainability consultancy. Managing field teams and cultural-resource work on transmission and distribution construction projects.

Posted 8/13/2026full-timeRemote • Idaho, Nevada • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $89,900 - $126,200 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in archaeological fieldwork, particularly in the Great Basin, with a strong focus on compliance with cultural resource regulations and safety protocols. Proficient in data collection and documentation, including the use of GPS and GIS tools, while effectively leading teams and coordinating with stakeholders.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Principal Investigator ExperienceNevada BLM PermittingSection 106 ComplianceGPS Data CollectionWilderness First Aid Training

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Archaeological FieldworkCultural Resource MitigationData CollectionField DocumentationQuality ControlPrehistoric and Historic IdentificationTechnical MemorandaEnvironmental ComplianceSafety Program AdherenceField Assessment

Soft Skills

Real-Time Decision MakingCommunicationTeam LeadershipCoordinationProblem Solving

Tools & Technologies

GPS UnitsSurvey123ArcGISField Data Collection Tools

Certifications & Qualifications

Master’s DegreeSecretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualification StandardsOSHA 10-Hour Safety TrainingOSHA 30-Hour Safety Training

Industry Keywords

Cultural Resource ManagementHistoric Properties Treatment PlanNational Register of Historic Places (NRHP)Native American CoordinationBLM Permitting Requirements

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead cultural resource mitigation following the Historic Properties Treatment Plan and site-specific plans
Communicate and make real-time decisions regarding changes to site-specific plans
Lead safety efforts and comply with ERM’s rigorous safety program
Identify, document, and evaluate archaeological materials, features, and isolated finds
Provide preliminary in-field assessments of NRHP eligibility
Implement unanticipated discovery procedures according to project permits
Coordinate in real time with project managers and cultural resource leads
Maintain compliance with cultural resource permit conditions and environmental commitments
Oversee daily field notes, photographic documentation, and GPS data
Collect data for future reporting, BLM summary updates, and field-form updates
Assure quality control of crew-collected data and methods
Assist with documentation and technical memoranda
Communicate findings, compliance concerns, and work status to project managers and senior archaeologists
Support coordination with Native American tribal monitors when applicable
Lead teams including ERM personnel, project term-hire staff, subconsultants, and coordinators

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or a closely related field preferred
Minimum of 5 years of Principal Investigator experience in Great Basin archaeological fieldwork
Must be permitted as a Nevada BLM Principal Investigator statewide for prehistoric and historic resources
Experience with mitigation for infrastructure projects
Strong familiarity with Section 106, NHPA, and BLM, Nevada, and Idaho agency permitting requirements
Ability to identify prehistoric and historic-period archaeological materials and features
Experience using GPS units, Survey123, ArcGIS, or similar field data collection tools
Valid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record
Ability to work safely in active construction environments and outdoor field conditions
Master’s degree required
Qualification under the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards (36 CFR Part 61) in Archaeology
Experience working in remote areas for extended periods
Demonstrated ability to support projects requiring sustained field engagement
Experience working alongside Native American tribal monitors
Permittable as a PI for Idaho BLM
OSHA 10- or 30-hour construction safety training
Wilderness and Remote First Aid Training
Physical capability to perform required field duties safely
Resume and brief cover letter required

Benefits

Comp & perks

Possibility of limited-term extension
Paid time off
Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
401(k)
Life insurance
Disability insurance
Limited benefits package for eligible fixed-term employees
Possible bonus pay (casual and fixed-term/Flexforce employees are not bonus eligible)