Archaeological Site Drone Mapper Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of technological discovery, the importance of Archaeological Site Drone Mappers has never been more significant.

As we delve deeper into our past, the demand for skilled professionals who can harness, develop and safely operate drones to map archaeological sites is increasing.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Archaeological Site Drone Mapper?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to comprehend the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager designing the perfect job profile,
• Or simply captivated by the fascinating blend of archaeology and technology,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Archaeological Site Drone Mapper job description template, tailored for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Archaeological Site Drone Mapper Duties and Responsibilities

Archaeological Site Drone Mappers use advanced technology and an understanding of archaeology to create detailed maps and models of archaeological sites.

Their work is instrumental in preserving and understanding historical sites, as well as planning archaeological excavations.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Flying drones over archaeological sites to collect aerial data
• Creating detailed 2D maps and 3D models of archaeological sites using drone imagery
• Collaborating with archaeologists to identify specific areas of interest for detailed mapping
• Maintaining and repairing drone equipment
• Ensuring all drone operations comply with local and national regulations
• Documenting and archiving drone footage and mapping data
• Processing and analyzing drone data to identify potential archaeological features
• Presenting mapping findings to archaeologists, researchers, and other stakeholders

 

Archaeological Site Drone Mapper Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Archaeological Site Drone Mapper to join our team.

The successful candidate will have a background in archaeology, coupled with proficient skills in drone operations and mapping technologies.

The Archaeological Site Drone Mapper is responsible for capturing high-resolution aerial images and videos, generating 3D models and maps of archaeological sites, and providing critical insights for analysis and research.

 

Responsibilities

• Operating drones to capture high-resolution images and videos of archaeological sites.
• Creating detailed 3D models and maps using drone-captured data and mapping software.
• Collaborating with archaeologists and researchers to identify areas of interest and potential excavation sites.
• Ensuring drone operations comply with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Maintaining drone equipment, including performing pre-flight checks and routine inspections.
• Processing, storing, and managing drone data effectively.
• Providing technical guidance to the team on drone technology and its applications in archaeology.

 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology, Geography, or a related field.
• Experience in drone operations and certified as a drone pilot.
• Proficiency in 3D modeling and mapping software.
• Understanding of archaeological fieldwork methods and techniques.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a team environment.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Good physical fitness to work in various outdoor conditions.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Opportunities for travel and fieldwork

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Archaeological Site Drone Mapper
• Work Environment: Field and office work. Travel to archaeological sites will be a significant part of the role.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head Archaeologist or Site Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Archaeological Site Drone Mapper Do?

Archaeological Site Drone Mappers are a specific kind of surveyor who uses drone technology to create detailed maps of archaeological sites.

They work closely with archaeologists and other experts to identify specific areas of interest within a site.

They then program and operate drones to capture high-resolution aerial images of these areas.

Using specialized software, they stitch together these images to create comprehensive maps that provide a bird’s-eye view of the archaeological site.

These maps can reveal patterns and features that may not be visible from the ground, and are often crucial in planning excavation strategies.

They also monitor the images and data collected by the drones to identify and record any changes in the site over time.

This can be particularly important in tracking the impact of environmental factors or human activity on the site.

Archaeological Site Drone Mappers may also be responsible for maintaining the drones, including regular checks and any necessary repairs or modifications.

Their work can often involve travel and fieldwork, as they need to be on-site to operate the drones and ensure they are capturing the required data accurately.

Overall, the role of an Archaeological Site Drone Mapper is to use modern technology to aid in the preservation and study of our historical past.

 

Archaeological Site Drone Mapper Qualifications and Skills

An efficient Archaeological Site Drone Mapper should possess the skills and qualifications that align with the job description, such as:

• Extensive knowledge and understanding of drone technology and operation, along with the ability to perform regular maintenance and troubleshoot potential issues.
• Experience with mapping software and technologies, with the ability to accurately translate aerial drone footage into detailed maps of archaeological sites.
• Strong attention to detail for identifying potentially significant archaeological features in drone footage and maps.
• Understanding of archaeological principles and practices to effectively collaborate with archaeologists and contribute to research objectives.
• Excellent spatial perception and orientation skills, necessary for navigating drones over complex landscapes and areas of interest.
• Effective communication skills for liaising with site managers, archaeologists, and other stakeholders, as well as for preparing and presenting reports on findings.
• Awareness of and adherence to relevant regulations and guidelines concerning drone usage, particularly in sensitive archaeological or ecological areas.
• Problem-solving abilities to adapt quickly to changing circumstances or unexpected challenges in the field.

 

Archaeological Site Drone Mapper Experience Requirements

Entry-level Archaeological Site Drone Mappers are typically expected to have a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through a relevant internship or part-time role.

This could involve tasks such as assisting in the planning and execution of drone surveys, processing and interpreting drone-collected data, or other similar activities.

Candidates for this role are also likely to have a background in archaeology, geospatial science or a related field, and should have gained practical experience in these areas during their studies or early-career roles.

Those with 3 to 5 years of experience in drone mapping may have more advanced skills and knowledge.

They are likely to have experience in designing and executing complex drone surveys, interpreting and analyzing survey data, and producing detailed site maps and reports.

They may also have some experience in using advanced mapping software and technologies.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience are likely to have a high level of expertise in archaeological drone mapping.

They may have led major mapping projects, worked on high-profile or sensitive archaeological sites, and contributed to the development of drone mapping methods and technologies.

They may also have experience in managing teams or coordinating with other professionals in the archaeological or geospatial field.

 

Archaeological Site Drone Mapper Education and Training Requirements

Archaeological Site Drone Mappers typically require a bachelor’s degree in archaeology, geography, geology, or a related field.

They need a firm grasp of geographical information systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies, along with an understanding of archaeological survey methods.

To operate drones professionally, drone mappers must also gain a Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which includes passing the FAA’s Aeronautical Knowledge Test.

Knowledge of photogrammetry software and principles, which allow the creation of detailed maps and models from drone-captured images, is crucial.

In some instances, particularly for complex or sensitive projects, employers may require drone mappers to have a master’s degree or Ph.D. in a relevant field, such as archaeology or geographic information science.

Continuing education and training in emerging technologies, software, and drone operations may enhance career prospects and job performance.

Hands-on experience, which can be gained through internships or fieldwork, is highly valuable in this profession.

 

Archaeological Site Drone Mapper Salary Expectations

An Archaeological Site Drone Mapper can expect an average salary of $63,293 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary may vary based on factors such as years of experience, level of expertise in drone operations, additional skills like data analysis, location, and the specific organization for which they work.

 

Archaeological Site Drone Mapper Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Archaeological Site Drone Mapper need?

Archaeological Site Drone Mappers need strong spatial skills to understand and interpret landscapes from different perspectives.

They should also have proficiency in operating drones and related software.

A solid foundation in archaeology is necessary to understand the context and implications of their findings.

Additionally, they should have good attention to detail for accurate mapping and strong problem-solving skills to manage unexpected challenges in the field.

 

Do Archaeological Site Drone Mappers need a degree?

Most employers require an Archaeological Site Drone Mapper to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field like Archaeology, Geography, or Geology.

Knowledge in GIS (Geographic Information System) is often required, which can be obtained through coursework or certification.

Experience or coursework in drone operation is also highly beneficial.

 

What should you look for in an Archaeological Site Drone Mapper resume?

An ideal candidate’s resume for this role should demonstrate experience with drone operation, particularly in the context of archaeological site mapping.

GIS skills should be clearly stated, as well as any relevant degrees or certifications.

Fieldwork experience, even if not directly related to drone mapping, could indicate practical understanding of archaeological sites and processes.

Proficiency in software for processing and interpreting drone data is also a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Archaeological Site Drone Mapper?

A successful Archaeological Site Drone Mapper is patient and meticulous, as mapping processes can be intricate and time-consuming.

They should have a keen interest in archaeology and enjoy fieldwork.

Good communication skills are important for collaborating with other archaeologists and stakeholders.

Adaptability is also key, as they may encounter various challenges in the field such as weather changes or equipment issues.

 

Is drone mapping widely used in archaeology?

Yes, drone mapping has become increasingly popular in archaeology.

Drones allow archaeologists to gather detailed spatial data from a site without disturbing it.

This is especially useful for documenting and monitoring sites that are hard to access or at risk of being damaged.

The use of drones in archaeology is expected to continue growing as technology advances.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the complexities of what it truly means to be an Archaeological Site Drone Mapper.

Intriguing, isn’t it?

It’s not just about operating drones.

It’s about sculpting the understanding of our historical past, one aerial map at a time.

With our handy Archaeological Site Drone Mapper job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop at readiness?

Plunge further with our job description generator. It’s your prime resource for crafting meticulous job listings or polishing your resume to brilliance.

Remember:

Every aerial map contributes to a larger narrative of our shared history.

Let’s excavate that past. Together.

How to Become an Archaeological Site Drone Mapper (Complete Guide)

Career Adventures: Unusual Jobs That Are Anything But Boring

Unlock the List: Easy Yet Lucrative Careers You Can Start Now

Breathe In, Cash Out: The Most Relaxing Jobs in the Market

Marketplace Mavericks: The Trending Jobs of the Moment