But, if you are at the point where you want benefits, or you are tired of being at the mercy of a jerk, or you simply want to be able to rent an apartment and hang your hat for more than several weeks in a row, and it just isn't fun anymore, go back to school or get out of archaeology. Archaeology is one of those jobs that you'll never get rich in, not even if you go for an MA or Ph.D. and get a fulltime job. Archaeology is simply, to put it bluntly, not rocket science, it's not a medical profession, it's not professional sports, it's simply not perceived as "essential" and so it's never going to be funded like those sciences that are perceived as essential sciences, and if nobody gets well paid, neither will you. So if you don't love it, don't do it.
I love archaeology; and I loved my three year stint as "hobo field crew." But there came a point when I was sick of the travel and the insecurity, and I was faced with the decision of going back for my Ph.D., quitting archaeology, or getting a full time job. Since I already had my MA, I got a full time job. What will be your decision?
More Have Trowel, Will Travel, The Series
- Part 1: Shovel Bums, Unite
- Part 2: So what experience or education do I need to get a field crew job?
- Part 3: Suggestions from a former "Lord of the Trowel"
- Part 4: Acquiring dignity
- Part 5: Finding and keeping that job
- Part 6: The darker side
- Part 7: Steps to protect yourself
- Part 8: Suggestions from an employer of field technicians
