Many government agencies, museums, universities, and private consulting firms employ underwater archaeologists. Underwater archaeology is an exciting career for talented, motivated individuals with a great love for studying and preserving the past, outdoor work, travel, and technical abilities such as scientific writing, drafting, computers, conservation, photo and videography, remote-sensing, diving, research vessel operations, and laboratory work. While opportunities for full-time career employment may be limited, participation in both professional and avocational organizations offer many additional opportunities to become involved in the study and preservation of underwater resources.

Conferences and meetings, such as the annual SHA Conference on Historical and Underwater Archaeology, sponsored in part by the Advisory Council on Underwater Archaeology, provide professionals, avocationals, and students with a forum for presenting research results, communicating with colleagues, meeting new people, and learning about new findings and technology.

Additional opportunities may be found in the many organizations which train and lead volunteers and avocational archaeologists. Working under the supervision of archaeological professionals, volunteers participate in nearly every facet of archaeology: archival research, field survey and excavation, boat handling and diving, laboratory work, project planning, logistics, and fund raising.

For career training, obtain the SHA publication Guide to Academic Programs in Historical and Underwater Archaeology or visit our Education and Organizations link.  Contact your state or provincial archaeology department, regional avocational historical or archaeology societies, or visit your local library for more information.  You can also Read More About It or visit Underwater Links for projects, diver training and other useful information.