Project Assistant (Geophysics)

MOLA (Museum of London Archaeology); Northampton; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking archaeology practice as a Project Assistant in Northampton! This exciting role offers a unique opportunity to work outdoors, engaging in geophysical surveys to uncover buried archaeological remains. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting out, your enthusiasm and willingness to learn will be valued. Enjoy generous annual leave, a cycle-to-work scheme, and free access to over 900 museums. This is your chance to contribute to meaningful heritage projects while exploring the great outdoors!

Benefits

Generous annual leave

Cycle to work scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Generous parental leave

PPE provided

Free access to over 900 museums, galleries, and exhibitions

Qualifications

• Entry-level role open to candidates with or without prior experience.
• Candidates should have good fitness and stamina for outdoor work.

Responsibilities

• Collect data with magnetometer carts and other survey instruments.
• Assist in data processing and equipment cleaning.

Skills

Interest in archaeology

Physical aptitude for outdoor work

Computer literacy

Map reading skills

Willingness to learn

Job description

This is a Temporary, Full Time vacancy that will close in 20 days at 23:59 BST.

The Vacancy

6-month Fixed Term Contract

Location: Northampton, and fieldwork sites as necessary

MOLA requires a Project Assistant to join our geophysical survey team in Northampton. This is an entry-level role, open to candidates with prior experience in archaeology or geophysics, as well as those who lack relevant experience but demonstrate the right aptitude and enthusiasm.

Geophysical survey involves using electronic instruments to map buried archaeological remains, typically to assess sites before excavation.

The role of the project assistant will be mainly field-based, working under supervision to collect data with magnetometer carts and other survey instruments. Candidates must have good fitness and stamina, be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, and be willing to work on rural sites. There will also be some office work, including data processing, equipment cleaning, and running errands between locations.

The geophysics team works across southern and central England, and many sites are beyond easy commuting distance from Northampton. The successful candidate should expect to undertake frequent travel, with overnight stays and a subsistence allowance provided.

The ideal candidate will have an interest in archaeology, enjoy outdoor work, be intelligent, numerate, computer literate, and have good spatial awareness. They should also be comfortable working as part of a small team. A full, clean driving license is essential.

Since most surveys involve sensitive magnetic instruments, the role may not be suitable for individuals with medical implants such as steel pins or pacemakers. MOLA is happy to discuss this further with interested candidates.

This vacancy is initially a six-month fixed-term contract, with the possibility of extension depending on workload.

We are looking for people who have:

• An interest in archaeology and/or geophysics (prior experience not required)
• Physical aptitude for outdoor work in all weather conditions
• Transferable skills such as computer literacy, map reading, or experience working on farmland
• Intelligence and a willingness to learn

Want to find out more?

For more information or an informal discussion, contact MOLA's Geophysical Survey Manager, John Walford, at [e-mail].

HOW TO APPLY

Closing date for applications: 16th May 2025

Apply via the MOLA website recruitment portal, where you'll find the full role details, job description, and person specification.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK without restrictions. Proof of eligibility will be required before starting.

MOLA is an equal opportunities and Disability employer. We welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, age, religion, or belief.

The Company

MOLA is an experienced and innovative archaeology practice, providing independent heritage advice and services for over 40 years across the UK and internationally. Our services support development, infrastructure, and construction projects to meet planning requirements efficiently and effectively.

As an education charity, we aim to inspire curiosity about heritage through community engagement and education programs. As an Independent Research Organisation, we share knowledge to benefit society. Our research complements our planning and development activities, conducted within our research framework.

The Benefits

• Generous annual leave
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Generous parental leave
• PPE provided
• Free access to over 900 museums, galleries, and exhibitions