About this role
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
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8 years of archaeological experience, including at least 1 year in a supervisory role
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Graduate degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or a related discipline
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Meets Secretary of the Interior (SOI) Professional Qualification Standards (36 CFR Part 61)
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Meets applicable state Principal Investigator (PI) qualification requirements
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Completion of an academic archaeological field school preferred
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Registered Archaeologist through the Register of Professional Archaeologists preferred
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Ability to meet applicable transportation or agency precertification requirements in area of research within 6 months, when required
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Significant experience leading archaeological field investigations and projects
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Experience managing complex projects, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation
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Advanced proficiency in GIS and mapping software
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Exceptional technical writing and report preparation skills
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Strong leadership skills and ability to manage multidisciplinary teams
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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 [email protected] 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.