Geophysics Manager in Hereford

Locations: Based in Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire; Boxworth, Cambridgeshire; Hereford, Herefordshire; or Silsoe, Bedfordshire.

Contract Type: Permanent

Closing Date: 5pm on 21st August 2026. 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.

Following the creation of a new Geophysics and Exploration section, Headland is expanding its geophysical survey team and recruiting experienced staff to meet its increasing project portfolio.

The Role

We are looking for a candidate who is self-driven with a positive outlook and good understanding of Archaeological Geophysics and British Archaeology. You will have experience of managing commercial geophysical and/or field archaeology projects in Britain, will be able to sell our services to new clients and help develop existing commercial relationships. You will be a good team worker who can promote new ideas and new ways of working, and motivate your teams to deliver projects to programme and to budget.

The position will involve preparation of tenders and the running of both field and office-based projects. You will be expected to use your archaeological and geophysical experience to advise clients and to support colleagues as projects progress.

As a commercial company there is plenty of scope to utilise existing skills, discover new ones and develop your strengths. You will encounter numerous opportunities for personal development. Our dedicated training team (CIfA accredited) will help support your projects and RSK provides a wealth of opportunity to broaden the range and nature of the experience enjoyed by our staff.

We combine an in-depth understanding of archaeology with practical experience of major construction projects to keep you ahead of the game. Our proactive, friendly approach leaves no stone unturned when it comes to accurate estimating, minimised risk and effective national resourcing.

From fast-track rail projects and wind farm construction through to housing developments and off-shore cable-laying, we deliver against your critical path and your heritage responsibilities.

We were founded in 1996 and now cover the whole of the UK from four regional offices located in Silsoe, Hereford, Cleckheaton and Edinburgh. Many of our contracts are valued at £1m-£5m and we regularly act as Principal Contractor.

We are a Registered Organisation of the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists. More importantly, though we study the past, we are a forward-looking and innovative business, keen to help our clients stay ahead of the game.

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 the UK and across the world.

With four offices in England and one in Scotland, we offer our employees:

• Unique knowledge and expertise. For nearly 30 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.17000 employees and c.230 environmentally lead companies.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

Essential Key Skills

• Detailed experience and understanding of UK commercial archaeology and planning legislation. Experience in the delivery of archaeological geophysics projects.
• Ability to work in collaboration with other construction professionals to deliver combined civils/archaeological projects.
• Advise on planning policies.
• Proficient in use and understanding of MS Office suite. Emerging skills in designing spreadsheets.
• Proficient in use of processing and data display packages.
• A relevant degree, or proven experience.
• Full, valid driving licence and willingness to travel.
• Comprehensive knowledge of safe working practices for typical archaeological geophysics projects.
• Good time and pressure management skills, ability to use your own initiative within the company structure.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Desirable Skills

• Significant commercial geophysical survey experience.
• Membership of the CIfA.
• CSCS Card (or equivalent).

Benefits

Benefits we offer you:

• Being part of RSK Group, a well-established global leader in the delivery of environmental and engineering solutions.
• Competitive paid subsistence when applicable.
• Paid accommodation when working away.
• Use of cutting-edge technology on site, e.g. paperless systems, iPads, cart/drone-based Magnetometers etc.
• Ongoing regular training in various areas e.g. Health & Safety, Technical areas and transferable skills.
• Annual profit discretionary bonus & performance-related bonus schemes, T&Cs apply.
• Annual pay review.
• Monthly clothing allowance.
• 35 days annual leave, rising based on service length.
• Extra annual leave purchase scheme.
• 5%-6% employer contribution to pension scheme.
• Income Protection Policy, after a year with Headland.
• Life Assurance Policy, insuring you 4 times your annual salary, after a year with Headland.
• Regular performance, wellbeing & professional development check-ins.
• Referral scheme with generous fee.
• A support group of 30+ Mental Health First Aiders.
• Regular offers through RSK Group (e.g. Tastecard, Gym membership discount, Holidays and Entertainment).
• Employee Assistance Programme (advice on finance, mental health etc).
• Paid CIfA membership.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Hybrid working is available.

How to apply

To apply for this role, please click the Web/Apply button above and submit your application through the Headland Archaeology Applicant Tracking System. As part of our commitment to fair and inclusive recruitment, our Applicant Tracking System removes certain identifying information from applications during the initial screening stage. This allows hiring managers to focus on candidates' skills, experience and suitability for the role, helping to reduce the potential for unconscious bias and ensuring a more objective recruitment process.

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

Headland is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Headland Archaeology is committed to creating an inclusive recruitment process. If you have a disability or need any adjustments to enable you to take part in the interview, please contact us at hr@headlandarchaeolgy.com so we can make suitable arrangements.

Compensation: £43,782 - £53,638 / year