What does an anthropologist do for work?

I'm fascinated by cultures and human history, and I wonder what careers an anthropologist might have. What are the typical tasks they deal with, and how is the job market for anthropologists?

Anthropology is indeed a fascinating field that encompasses the study of humans, human behavior, and societies from the past and present. Many anthropologists are involved in research, either with universities, cultural institutions like museums, or private companies.

There are four main fields of anthropology: cultural anthropology, biological (physical) anthropology, linguistic anthropology, and archaeology. People specializing in these sub-fields might have different tasks. For example, a cultural anthropologist may spend their time doing ethnographic fieldwork, interviewing people, and conducting surveys in diverse communities. On the other hand, Biological anthropologists could be studying human evolution, population genetics, or paleoanthropology and may spend their day doing lab work and analyses. Linguistic anthropologists study human communication, and archaeologists focus on studying the human past through the excavation of remains.

It's also important to note that many anthropologists work in an academic setting, which means they may spend a good amount of time teaching classes, writing papers, and presenting their work at conferences.

In terms of the job market, it can be quite competitive, especially for academic positions. That being said, skills gained in anthropology - such as understanding human behavior, cultural sensitivity, research skills, and more - can be applicable to a wide range of careers outside of academia. These include careers in market research, user experience (UX) research, international development, community service, etc.

Moreover, government entities such as the Department of State and various non-governmental organizations often seek anthropologists for their skills in analyzing communities and their cultures, which can aid policies and programs on different levels.

Hence, the breadth and depth of the anthropological field allow for a variety of specializations and opportunities, each with its own unique tasks and career paths.