There are two main venues through which archaeologists in Israel can find full time positions: the Israel Antiquities Authority (Reshut Ha’Atikot) and at universities and colleges (michlalot). Most of the digs that are currently underway are conducted by the Antiquities Authority for “Chafirot Hatzalah”, required digs prior to new building/road development to identify and avoid damage to undiscovered antiquities.
Generally, limited funding is available for archaeological research, and there are not many paid positions. Most archaeologists choose to supplement their archaeological work with a second income. Many choose to teach or become tour guides.
You may find this Jerusalem Post article about archaeology in Jerusalem very interesting!
Joining a Dig
The best way to join a dig is through connections. It is best to find an archaeologist who is leading a dig, and offer to volunteer. Once you prove yourself, you can ask to join future digs with this archaeologist and slowly build up your credibility within the field. Ironically, it is often easier to get involved with a dig in Israel that is being conducted by a visiting archaeologist from an American university.
Here is a list of digs with contact information.
Networking
As with most professions, it is important to conduct market research and speak to professionals in Israel, who can provide a more in-depth sense of the types of opportunities that exist in this field.
Hebrew Skills
A good working knowledge of Hebrew is a pre-requisite for most positions. It is strongly advised to take Ulpan upon arrival.
- www.science.co.il/archaeology
- Albright Institute of Archaeological Research
- The Israel Antiquities Authority
- Yad Ben Tzvi has lectures that one can use to supplement professional studies
- Biblical Archeological Society
A special thank you to Aren Maeir, professor of archaeology at Bar-Ilan University, for participating in this interview.
Please provide us with a brief description of your field.
I am a professor of archaeology at Bar-Ilan University. I combine teaching and research, both in the lab and the field as part of my work.
What is your current position?
Professor of archaeology at Bar-Ilan University.
How did you find your job?
I trained as an archaeologist at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem after I left the army in 1982.
What types of backgrounds are relevant for someone looking to break into the field of Archaeology?
One should have degrees in archaeology and related fields, in order to break into the field.
What education and experience should an Oleh looking to go into Archaeology come with?
An advanced degree in archaeology from a respected institution abroad.
Is there any kind of license or certification you need, to work as a Archaeologist in Israel?
In addition to a college level degree, and preferably a graduate one, you need to have experience in the field. If not, you will have to get that here, on excavations.
How important is Hebrew in your field?
Hebrew is important to talk to your local colleagues, but most professional publications, meetings, etc. are in English.
What are the benefits of your job?
The benefits are having an interesting job, working outdoors, meeting a wide range of people, and having fun.
Is Archaeology more in demand in certain areas of Israel?
There are not a lot of jobs in archaeology. The Israel Antiquities Authority ( http://www.antiquities.org.il/ ) is the main employer, and then various universities and some museums. All told there are not a lot of jobs in the field.
What is the salary range?
The salary is not that great – more or less like a civil servant.
Do you have any other advice or tips for Olim?
Check out the field well before you commit to it; both as far as choosing a profession at the start, and also before you commit to Aliyah, since there are not a lot jobs in Archaeology. If you are committed to coming to Israel, take into account that you might have to switch careers if you don’t find a job in archaeology.
How do you feel about working and living in Israel?
I love it and would not want to live and/or work anywhere else in the world!
Thanks to Aran Maeir, professor of archaeology at Bar-Ilan University. You can contact Aran at [email protected].