Archaeologists NEEDHAM MARKET (SUFFOLK)

Archaeologists – Dependent on Experience

We are seeking enthusiastic and skilled individuals to join our existing team. Your core skills and experience should include manual excavation and recording of archaeological features and the recovery of artefacts or samples. You should also be able to complete stratigraphic matrices, photograph archaeological features and sites and compose accurate measured drawings. Familiarity with GPS surveying is desirable.

Purpose of Role

To undertake archaeological field investigations including manual excavation and the collection and recording of data under the direction of a designated Project Leader.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in the successful completion of fieldwork projects including fieldwalking, evaluation, excavation, finds processing, data entry and archiving.
• Accurately record investigation data using the DRS pro‑forma recording sheets, registers, scale drawings and photographs in accordance with CA procedures.
• Recover artefacts and environmental samples in accordance with CA procedures and recognised industry standards.
• Carry out manual excavation of features accurately and efficiently with a wide variety of tools.
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of archaeological periods and practice.
• Deal courteously with sponsors, clients of CA, officers of other bodies, members of the public and colleagues.
• Create and maintain accurate and well‑organised administrative records.
• Assist in the training and support of Trainee Archaeologists.
• Undertake all training provided by Cotswold Archaeology applicable to the role.
• Perform all duties in line with CA Health and Safety policy and systems.
• Carry out other duties as deemed appropriate.

Personal Specification

Essential

• Knowledge and understanding of archaeological practice.
• Ability to deal efficiently and courteously with clients of CA, officers of other bodies, members of the public and colleagues.
• Broad knowledge of archaeological periods, monuments and practice obtained from a degree standard or equivalent qualification.
• Capability to carry out physically demanding outdoor work in a wide variety of weather conditions, including manual excavation using hand tools.
• Willingness, enthusiasm and drive to learn about all aspects of professional archaeological practice and develop new skills.
• Good attention to detail.
• Ability to create and maintain accurate and well‑organised administrative records.
• Ability and willingness to undertake away work, including extended away periods when required.

Desirable

• Demonstrable experience of machine supervision / watching brief in a commercial context.
• Ability to assist in the training and support of Trainee Archaeologists.
• Survey skills, including ability to operate Leica GPS / TST.
• Full Manual Driving Licence and confidence in driving 4×4 vehicles, vans, people carriers and crew‑cab transit vans.
• Membership of CIfA.
• CSCS / EUSR card or equivalent.

Benefits

Along with a starting salary above the CIfA minimum we offer a highly competitive benefits package including:

• 30 days annual leave (including statutory holidays) – prorated for the duration of contract.
• Employer contribution to pension scheme.
• Life assurance scheme.
• Paid CIfA membership subscription (following qualifying period).
• Company sick pay – prorated for the duration of contract.
• A generous lieu scheme for all driving time and time spent in excess of 45 minutes each way as a passenger outside of the normal 7.5 hour working day (accumulate up to 10 days additional lieu time annually).
• Overnight accommodation and subsistence when working on away projects.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and a network of mental health first aiders across the organisation.
• Personal protective equipment.

Closing Date

Applications need to be submitted by Friday 9th January 2026; however we will be reviewing applications as they are submitted and making offers where possible.

Cotswold Archaeology is an equal opportunities employer. All applications are assessed solely on the candidates relevant skills and experience irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion or belief, age, nationality (except where work permits are required) or ethnic background.

Applicants must already have the legal right to live and work in the UK as defined by UK Visas and Immigration.

Monthly Salary: 27435 – 28696