Information about Archaeologists?

I've always wanted to become an Archaeologists (I'm year 12), but the only problem is the wage which isn't very attractive. I've also just been recently informed that Archaeologists are more university based than out in the field like they used to be. If I were to become an Archaeologist in Britain, what would the average wage be and would I be able to work in the field rather than get a job in a university or museum?