Archaeological Collections & Curation Intern

AECOM's Transportation Group is seeking an enthusiastic undergraduate or graduate student to join its Cultural Resource Management (CRM) team in Raleigh, North Carolina. The internship provides hands-on experience supporting archaeological laboratory operations, collections management, and artifact curation associated with federal, state, local, and private-sector compliance projects. The position is expected to begin in May 2027.

Responsibilities

Process archaeological artifacts recovered from CRM projects, including washing, sorting, labeling, and cataloging; Assist with inventorying and organizing archaeological collections and associated records; Enter artifact and provenience data into digital collections databases; Prepare collections for long-term curation in accordance with state repository requirements and federal standards, including 36 CFR Part 79; Organize project records, photographs, maps, field forms, and digital documentation; Conduct basic artifact identification and classification under the supervision of professional archaeologists; Support digitization and archival management efforts; Maintain laboratory organization and assist with collection storage management; Participate in special projects involving legacy archaeological collections and curation management plan implementation

Requirements

Pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, Museum Studies, Historic Preservation, or a related discipline; Completed at least one year of study; Recent graduates must have been enrolled in their bachelor's degree in the most previous school term with an interest in pursuing an advanced degree in the same or similar discipline at the conclusion of the internship; Ability to lift and move boxes weighing up to 25 pounds; Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing laboratory work; Ability to safely handle archaeological materials, archival supplies, and collection storage containers

Nice to have

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail; Ability to perform repetitive laboratory tasks with accuracy and consistency; Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel; Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a professional team environment; Completion of archaeological field school and laboratory methods coursework; Previous experience in an archaeological laboratory, museum, repository, or collections setting; Familiarity with Southeastern U.S. archaeology and material culture; Basic understanding of federal and state historic preservation compliance processes; Experience with artifact databases and digital record management; Interest in pursuing a career in CRM

Benefits

Medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits; Paid time off; Leaves of absence; Voluntary benefits; Perks; Flexible work options; Well-being resources; Employee assistance program; Business travel insurance; Service recognition awards; Retirement savings plan; Employee stock purchase plan