Archivist & Project Manager - Geohazards

Stantec UK Careers; Reading; Hybrid; GBP 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Competitive salary

Bonus schemes

Enhanced pension

Private medical insurance

Annual leave

Job summary

Stantec is seeking an Archivist & Project Manager to lead the Cavities Database, combining archival research with GIS and client engagement. Based in Reading with flexibility for London or Edinburgh, the role offers a unique chance to manage one of the UK's key geological archives and contribute to challenging ground condition projects.

The successful candidate will oversee records, pursue new information from historical sources, and collaborate with specialists on multidisciplinary

Qualifications

• Degree in Earth Sciences, Natural Sciences, Geology, Geography or related discipline; Archaeology/Geoarchaeology backgrounds welcomed.
• Experience managing databases or large, complex datasets.
• Strong research and analytical skills to interpret historical information.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Cavities Database: manage records, updates, client inquiries, quotes and licensee relations.
• Conduct historical research using maps, plans, records and papers to uncover new information.
• Maintain and develop data within digital DB and GIS systems.
• Prepare factual and archive search reports for clients.
• Manage budgets, programmes and resources for project delivery.
• Build relationships with clients, contractors and teams to support projects.
• Support research and development to improve services.

Skills

Database management

Historical research

Project management

Client engagement

GIS basics

Communication

Attention to detail

Commercial awareness

Education

Earth Sciences/Geology degree

Archaeology/Geoarchaeology heritage background

Tools

GIS software

Job description

Have a passion for history, heritage and geology? Interested in uncovering the stories behind the UK's historic landscapes while helping protect communities and infrastructure?

We're looking for an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Archivist & Project Manager to join our specialist Geohazards team at Stantec. The role would ideally be based in Reading, given the location of our associated archives and future project pipeline. However, we're happy to consider candidates based in London or Edinburgh.

This is a genuinely unique opportunity to take ownership of one of the UK's most fascinating geological archives: the Stantec Cavities Database. Originally established in the 1980s, it now contains more than 32,000 records of naturally occurring cavities and non-coal mining features across the UK, supported by an extensive collection of historical resources. Some records even document Roman and prehistoric mining!

You'll play a key role in preserving, expanding and managing this valuable resource, combining historical research, geological information and modern digital tools. Alongside this, you'll have the opportunity to take on a wider project management role, working with leading specialists on projects that tackle some of the UK's most challenging ground conditions.

For more information, please see Geohazards | Stantec.

ABOUT THE ROLE

You'll take the lead in managing and developing the Cavities Database, ensuring its continued growth, accuracy and value to our clients. Combining archival research, data management, GIS and client engagement, no two days will be quite the same.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Database management: Overseeing the Cavities Database, managing new records, updates, client enquiries, quotations and relationships with licensees.

• Historical research: Reviewing historical maps, mining plans, geological records, academic papers and industrial heritage documents to uncover and validate new information.

• Digital data and GIS: Maintaining and developing information within our digital database and GIS systems.

• Technical reporting: Preparing factual and archive search reports, bringing together historical research and technical information for clients.

• Project management: Managing budgets, programmes and resources to ensure projects are delivered to the required quality, timescales and commercial targets.

• Client relationships: Building positive relationships with clients, contractors and colleagues, providing clear advice and supporting successful project delivery.

• Research and development: Supporting and potentially leading research and development initiatives to continually improve our services.

As you gain experience in the role, you'll also have opportunities to manage increasingly varied and high-profile Geohazards projects. Our team regularly responds to ground collapses and other instability events, sometimes where there is an immediate risk to life or property. This can involve coordinating emergency responses and managing longer-term investigation and remediation works.

This is a fantastic opportunity to combine your interest in history and heritage with a broader project management career within a highly specialised team.

YOUR IMPACT

You'll be joining a team of Geohazards specialists working across the UK and internationally to understand, manage and reduce the impacts of ground instability.

Our work helps protect communities, safeguard the environment and preserve critical infrastructure. From karstic ground conditions and legacy mining hazards to landslides and unexpected ground collapses, we tackle complex challenges that have a real impact on people's lives.

Through your work on the Cavities Database, you'll help preserve an important record of the UK's geological and industrial heritage while providing essential information to support future infrastructure and development projects.

ABOUT YOU

We're looking for someone who combines an interest in history, heritage or geology with excellent organisational skills, a passion for research and the ambition to take on project management responsibilities.

You'll ideally bring:

• A degree in Earth Sciences, Natural Sciences, Geology, Geography or a related discipline. We also welcome applications from those with backgrounds in Archaeology, Geoarchaeology or Heritage-related subjects.

• Experience managing databases or large, complex datasets.

• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret historical information from a variety of sources.

• Experience using GIS would be advantageous, although training can be provided.

• An understanding of project management principles, with experience managing projects, budgets or programmes. An APM Project Management Qualification (PMQ) or equivalent would be beneficial.

• Experience with contract documentation, licensing or licence agreements would be an advantage.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with confidence engaging with clients, contractors and multidisciplinary teams.

• Strong organisational and time management skills, with exceptional attention to detail.

• Commercial awareness and an understanding of delivering value for clients.

Above all, you'll have a genuine enthusiasm for history, heritage and archaeology, alongside an interest in geology and the UK's mining legacy. You'll be curious, proactive and keen to take ownership of a specialist service.

A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel when required are also essential.

Why Join Us:

We put people first: We're proud of our friendly, inclusive and collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and driven to succeed.

We are driven to achieve: Named in the top 50 companies to work by Glassdoor 2025. Recognised by Corporate Knights as one of the world's top 10 most sustainable companies 2025. Named 'Best Place to Work' and 'International Consulting Firm of the Year' at the NCE Awards 2024.

We do what is right: Industry leading training and development as well as paid for professional subscriptions. A professional progression plan, supporting you to become chartered with ICE.

We are better together: A supportive and collaborative team environment and Early Careers peer group and wider ERG network (see more on our ERGs here: Stantec Employee Resource Groups)

Growth: We're on an exciting growth journey across the UK & Ireland - we want you to be part of it!

Great Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus schemes, enhanced pension plan, annual leave with the option to buy/sell additional days, private medical insurance, group income protection & life assurance included as standard as well as discounted gym membership and lots more.

Flexible working: Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with our hybrid approach to flexible working.

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