ARCHAEOLOGISTS

Headland Archaeology (UK) Ltd; Birmingham, Essex; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in commercial archaeology is seeking enthusiastic individuals for an exciting opportunity. Join a dynamic team dedicated to delivering high-quality archaeological work on significant infrastructure projects across the UK. This role offers a chance to expand your knowledge and skills while working on diverse and interesting projects, from Roman settlements to medieval sites. With a supportive environment and opportunities for professional development, this position is perfect for those passionate about archaeology and eager to make a difference in the field.

Benefits

Paid subsistence

Paid accommodation

Gym membership discount

Annual profit discretionary bonus

Monthly clothing allowance

28 days annual leave

5%-6% employer pension contribution

Income Protection Policy

Employee Assistance Programme

Cycle to work scheme

Qualifications

• 3 months of archaeological field work experience is essential.
• Proficiency in MS Office and good communication skills are required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct archaeological evaluations and excavations across various sites.
• Involve in exciting projects, managing fieldwork tasks effectively.

Skills

Archaeological field work experience

Good organisational skills

Communication skills

Ability to work under pressure

Manual work capability

MS Office proficiency

English language proficiency

Education

Degree in Archaeology or relevant subject

Membership of CIfA

Job description

Salary: from £24,856 – £25,847.50 (depending on experience) + generous benefits package

Hours: Full time, 37.5h/week

Location: Sites across UK including East Anglia, Essex, Herts, Bucks

Contract Type: fixed-term contract – Dec 2025 (possibility of extension)

Closing Date: 5pm on 04/04/2025. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and we may fill existing vacancies before the closing date, so you are advised to submit your application as early as possible.

Are you fascinated by the past and looking for a career in commercial archaeology? Do you want to be part of big infrastructure schemes and work on interesting projects?

This is an excellent opportunity, if you are looking to expand your knowledge in archaeology, improve your skills and be part of a team who delivers high quality archaeological work.

Why Should You Apply?

We are a privately owned archaeological business, part of the RSK Group, a leader in integrated environmental, engineering, and technical services. We provide heritage services to the development and construction sectors in UK and across the world. With three offices in England and one in Scotland, we offer our employees:

• Unique knowledge and expertise: For more than 20 years, Headland has provided not only business-focused archaeology but also people-focused business. We are highly respected within our industry for our achievements in innovation, tailor-made development coaching and training, and our expertise in commercial archaeology.
• Strong pioneering spirit: Our corporate culture is characterised by a healthy appetite for originality and development.
• Stable company with excellent growth: Over the years, we have demonstrated steady, positive economic development and formed successful partnerships.
• Good work environment: You will be surrounded by colleagues who are pleasant, professional, and enthusiastic about their work.
• Opportunity to influence: You get to work in an open climate, close to decision makers and with the possibility of making a difference.
• Part of RSK group: You will have further opportunities to become involved in nationally and internationally prominent projects with exciting prospects for career development. The group has c.6000 employees and c.105 environmentally lead companies.

The Role

We are looking to recruit enthusiastic, committed, results-driven individuals, available to start immediately. Ideally you would have at least three months’ experience in UK commercial archaeology, or relevant European commercial experience.

Your work will primarily involve conducting a range of archaeological evaluations and excavations as well as office-based tasks. As part of the fieldwork team you will get involved in several large and exciting projects across central, southern, and eastern England. We have interesting projects including LBA-EIA enclosures and burnt mounds, Roman occupation and medieval edge of settlement. Working away and travelling in new places is a normal part of this role. When conditions allow for staying away, we will provide you with high-quality accommodation and subsistence.

Our most recent works, which include well-preserved IA/RB and Saxon landscapes, medieval and post-medieval industrial sites in eastern England, prehistoric landscapes on the southern chalklands, and industrial archaeology in Birmingham, illustrate the wide range of projects we have been commissioned to deliver.

At Headland, we are proud of our people. We will support you to meet your goals and train you in specific archaeological and other skills to feel confident and succeed in your role.

You must have the following essential criteria:

• Genuine interest in archaeology
• 3 months of archaeological field work experience preferably on sites of various periods and types
• Ability to carry out prolonged manual work in an outdoor environment in all weather
• Good organisational & communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure
• Substantial knowledge of MS Office & English language

A Degree in Archaeology, or in a relevant subject, membership of the CIfA and a valid CSCS card are desirable criteria for the role. A driving license and willingness to drive in the UK is a plus.

Benefits we offer you:

• Paid subsistence when applicable
• Paid accommodation when applicable
• Regular offers through RSK Group (e.g. Tastecard, Gym membership discount, Holidays and Entertainment)
• Time off in lieu or you will be paid for time worked above standard hours
• Annual profit discretionary bonus & performance-related bonus schemes
• Monthly clothing allowance
• 28 days annual leave, rising based on service length
• 5%-6% employer contribution to pension scheme
• Income Protection Policy, after a year with Headland
• Employee Assistance Programme (advice on finance, mental health etc)
• Paid CIfA membership
• Constant training in various areas e.g. Health & Safety, Technical Services etc.
• Cycle to work scheme
• Extra annual leave purchase scheme

How to apply

You must have the right to work in the UK without restrictions. Proof of eligibility will be required prior to your commencement.

Headland is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.