Job DescriptionThe OpportunityLead with Purpose - As a Lead Archaeologist, you will guide multi-phase archaeological programs, shape technical strategies, and contribute to culturally responsible project delivery across complex infrastructure and environmental initiatives. You will bring advanced expertise, leadership, and a commitment to preserving heritage while supporting project success province-wide.
Your Impact- Direct and oversee archaeological assessments requirements aligned with the Ontario Heritage Act & Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism (MCM), including advanced field strategies, excavation design, mitigation planning, and regulatory reporting.
- Build and maintain meaningful relationships with Indigenous Nations and community partners, advancing respectful collaboration.
- Provide expert guidance to clients on archaeological processes and constraints, Indigenous engagement, permitting, and risk management.
- Support business development: lead technical approaches, contribute to proposals, and cultivate strong client relationships.
- Independently deliver quality work in a deadline-driven environment including decision making on highly complex issues.
- Mentor archaeological team members, building capability and supporting succession.
- Provide senior technical review of deliverables to meet MCM and WSP quality standards.
- Provide visible leadership by promoting health, safety and security in your projects and teams.
- Apply innovative technologies to elevate project outcomes.
The Skills That Set You Apart- Professional or research license to conduct archaeological fieldwork in Ontario in good standing with the MCM.
- Degree in archaeology, anthropology, or related discipline.
- 15+ years of archaeological experience with demonstrated leadership in complex, multi-phase field programs.
- Deep understanding of CRM business, permitting pathways, Indigenous engagement practices, and heritage stewardship.
- Expert understanding of relevant provincial and federal legislative frameworks (e.g., MCM, Parks Canada standards as well as the Planning Act, Environmental Assessment Act, Aggregate Resources Act etc.).
- Experience designing scope and budget for archaeological projects of all sizes and complexities.
- Experience in providing quality control of client deliverables and providing constructive feedback to staff regarding how to improve deliverables in future.
- Strong understanding of project financial management.
- Able to direct technical and safety training and instructions
- Able to obtain Provincial and Federal Security Clearance.
- Valid driver's license with satisfactory driving record, per the WSP's driving policy.
Preferred Qualifications: - Expert knowledge of the Ontario historical period and/or Indigenous material culture.
- Understanding of requirements for archaeology on federal lands.
- Membership with the Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals (CAHP).
CompensationAB, BC, NT, NU, SK & YT: $110,600 - $146,500
MB & ON: $100,900 - $139,000
NB, NL, NS, PEI & QC: $99,900 - $132,700
Disclosure:The final salary awarded for this role may vary from the above range based on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs. The wage range provided in this job posting may be subject to change for business purposes.
Make Your Mark With WSPReady to lead meaningful work that safeguards the stories of our past while shaping the future? Let's build something lasting together.
