Studies human history and prehistory primarily through site excavation, recovery, and analysis of the material culture and environmental data left behind (the archaeological record), which includes artifacts (finds), architecture, biofacts, and cultural landscapes. May be an expert in particular eras or fields e.g. Maori or other Pacific civilisations, colonial, pottery, coinage, glassware, adornment, Neolithic, Bronze or Iron Age, Anglo-Saxon, Medieval, Roman, Egyptian. There are also specialisations including Landscape/Maritime/Aerial/Military/Architectural/Experimental Archaeologist, Bioarchaeologist, and Osteoarchaeologist. May work for central or local government, private companies, as a consultant, or in academia.

Reviews or generates the project brief, undertakes preparatory research, consultation, and site visit. Plans, directs, and conducts work onsite, or may be required to observe and halt development actively occurring, all in accordance with regulations. Surveys, makes measurements, field-walks, excavates test pits and trenches, and takes samples. Creates written, photographic, sketch, and map records of the investigation. Compiles, authenticates, evaluates, labels, and interprets archaeological data or finds. May consult or collaborate with or advise: surveyors, GIS specialists, historians, architects, engineers, environmental and other scientists, and local or central government staff and representatives. Writes reports or publications explaining fieldwork and research findings. May make recommendations for conservation or development of sites, or for further investigation. May be required to verbally present information, e.g. to the public or at consent hearings. Archives finds and site records.

Works both outdoors and indoors. Works outdoors exposed to most weather conditions. Terrain may be dusty, wet, or muddy, or contain physical impediments to excavation such as rocks, rubble, pipes, and tree roots. Will use protective clothing and footwear. Indoor workspaces such as offices, libraries, archives, and laboratories, should be adequately lit, heated, and ventilated, and clean and well-maintained.

• Up to heavy physical demand in the field, particularly if significant manual excavation is required. Sedentary to light physical demand when working inside.
• Stands and walks frequently due to on-site visits, which may involve negotiating difficult/uneven terrain. Frequent sitting when researching, curating finds, in meetings, or travelling to sites.
• Occasional requirement for lifting, carrying, or pulling when carrying equipment to sites and when loading/unloading equipment in/out of vehicles. Frequent bending, crouching, kneeling, stretching, and twisting is required on sites. Occasional to frequent repetitive arm, hand, and finger movements are required when using hand tools and equipment to excavate or clean finds, and through the use of computers. Jarring of the body may occur during any tasks involving heavy excavation. Employees use safety clothing and equipment on site. At times may be required to work in trenches or other confined spaces. Excavating machinery may operate nearby.
• Frequent driving of cars, which may include 4WD or utility vehicles in order to visit some sites.
• Mental skills necessary include a high level of cognitive functioning and specialist knowledge, with attention to detail, critical thinking, cultural sensitivity, decision-making, excellent verbal and written communication, and record-keeping capabilities.

A relevant tertiary qualification (likely a post-graduate degree) or at least five years applicable experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 1). In some cases particular experience and/or on-job training may be required. Additionally, a Class 1 Driver Licence is generally required.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement, but they are limited.