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.

#LI-SE1 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.