Principal Investigator

Job Description:

Overview:

Pape-Dawson is looking for a Principal Investigator to be based out of our San Antonio, Texas location.

The Principal Investigator is a qualified senior technical leader responsible for directing complex cultural resources investigations and ensuring regulatory alignment. This role brings strong technical judgment to research design and documentation, serves as a key point of contact with agencies and clients, and mentors staff across multiple experience levels.

Responsibilities:

Direct and oversee technical archaeological work

Lead complex cultural resources investigations and research design

Provide expert guidance on applicable federal, state, and local regulatory compliance

Coordinate with clients and applicable regulatory agencies in complex situations

Prepare scopes of work, schedules, and project budgets

Lead archaeological field investigations and oversee project execution

Author and review complex technical reports, research designs, treatment plans, and related documentation

Demonstrate advanced expertise in identification, analysis, and assessment of pre- and post-contact materials, features, and structures

Apply subject-matter expertise in a cultural resources subfield, such as artifact analysis, GIS, geoarchaeology, or deliverable preparation

Ensure regulatory alignment and well-supported conclusions

Provide coaching, guidance, and knowledge sharing to team members

Participate in professional organizations and continuing education

Support public and stakeholder engagement related to archaeological findings

Qualifications:

8 years of archaeological experience, including at least 1 year in a supervisory role

Graduate degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or a related discipline

Meets Secretary of the Interior (SOI) Professional Qualification Standards (36 CFR Part 61).

Meets applicable state Principal Investigator (PI) qualification requirements.

Completion of an academic archaeological field school preferred

Registered Archaeologist through the Register of Professional Archaeologists preferred

Ability to meet applicable transportation or agency precertification requirements in area of research within 6 months, when required

Significant experience leading archaeological field investigations and projects

Experience managing complex projects, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation

Advanced proficiency in GIS and mapping software

Exceptional technical writing and report preparation skills

Strong leadership skills and ability to manage multidisciplinary teams

Typical workweek is Monday–Friday during standard business hours, with flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and travel based on project needs.

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If you need an accommodation or assistance with completing your application due to a disability or special need, please contact our team at Recruiting@pape-dawson.com or call (210) 375-9000.

EEO Statement:

All qualified applicants for Pape-Dawson Engineers will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.