ERM is hiring Principal Investigators to lead on-site cultural resource mitigation, compliance and mitigation support during the construction phase of our client’s transmission and distribution project in Northern Nevada and Southern Idaho .
The PI will work closely with project managers to understand client risk decisions, schedule drivers and methods to be used at specific sites. The candidate will be required to make in field decisions and communicate method changes in real time. The successful PI will lead teams that could include members from ERM, project term-hire, and subconsultants, and coordinators to implement mitigation, delineate, analyze, and implement avoidance measures for cultural resources to support uninterrupted project progress while maintaining regulatory compliance. This role requires strong field judgment, clear communication, and the ability to work safely and effectively in active construction and diverse, rugged environments.
The position requires the ability to work collaboratively, communicate effectively with project teams, and make sound, real-time decisions in the field. Successful candidates must be flexible and responsive to a changing work environment where schedules, site locations, and tasks fluctuate according to the needs of the project. This is a full-time (60-72 hours/week) , limited-term role with a duration of 6 months and the possibility of extension.
Responsibilities
Lead mitigation by following the Historic Properties Treatment Plan and site specific plan(s)
Communicate and make decisions in live time on changes to the site specific plan that are in the best interest of obtaining data, BLM requirements, and schedule drivers
Be a leader in safety
Identify, document, and evaluate archaeological materials, features, and isolated finds and have the ability to provide preliminary in field assessment of NRHP eligibility
Implement unanticipated discovery procedures in accordance with project permits
Coordinate in real time with project managers, and cultural resource leads.
Maintain compliance with cultural resource permit conditions and environmental commitments
Oversee the completion of daily field notes, photographic documentation, and GPS data
Collect data to support future reporting, summary updates to the BLM, and updates of field forms
Assure quality control for all crew members collected data and methods
Assist with preparation of 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
Other duties as assigned or required
Compliance with ERM’s rigorous safety program
Requirements
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
Be permitted as a NV BLM Principal Investigator Statewide for Prehistoric and Historic
Experience with mitigation for infrastructure projects
Strong familiarity with Section 106, NHPA, and BLM, NV, and ID 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
Preferred Qualifications
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 PI for ID BLM
OSHA 10- or 30-hour construction safety training
Wilderness and Remote First Aid Training
Work Environment
This position is…