At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to conduct exciting geophysical surveys and develop your skills in archaeology.
- Company: Be part of Headland, a respected archaeological business within the RSK Group.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, health support, training, and generous leave options.
- Other info: Travel across the UK and EU, with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on archaeological projects while gaining a recognised qualification.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for learning and working outdoors.
The predicted salary is between 26238 - 26238 £ per year.
Application Deadline: 12 August 2026
Department: Geophysics
Employment Type: Fixed Term - Full Time
Location: Cleckheaton
Compensation: £26,238 / year
Description
Do you ever wonder how archaeological sites are located and identified in the first place? Do you want to be at the forefront of the development of geophysical survey techniques in the commercial field? Do you want to join a large team with a range of experience working on nationally important and interesting projects throughout the United Kingdom and the EU? If so, we are keen to develop and/or expand your knowledge and skills in archaeological geophysics, whilst gaining a nationally recognised qualification ‘Level 3 Award in Archaeological Practice’ alongside our specialist geophysicists. The Level 3 Certificate in Archaeological Practice is the only vocational qualification currently available for archaeologists. It provides the skills and knowledge required for a career in the historic environment sector.
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 four offices in England and one in Scotland, we offer our employees unique knowledge and expertise.
- Our corporate culture is characterised by a healthy appetite for originality and development.
- Stable company with excellent growth.
- Good work environment.
- Opportunity to influence.
- Part of RSK group.
The Role
This qualification is suitable for:
- Learners with no prior experience
- Learners in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
- Learners not in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
- Apprentices
- School leavers
- Adults returning to education
- Degree level academics who wish to acquire the vocational skills and knowledge required by employers in the sector
- Would-be archaeologists who are unable, or do not wish, to study at university
- Volunteers within an archaeological environment who wish to achieve the qualification in order to enhance your employment prospects.
Entry
Although there are no formal entry requirements for this qualification, it is likely that learners will either already be working or volunteering in the archaeology sector. Alternatively, learners should have an appropriate level of knowledge and communication skills to meet the requirements of the qualification. Please be aware that applicants enrolled into the Headland Archaeology funded Level 3 Award in Archaeological Practice, will be expected to opt-in to an 18-month commitment agreement with the company, whereby a repayment of costs would be expected should you leave before the agreed completed level of service. Full details would be outlined alongside Contract terms & conditions.
Responsibilities
In 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. We are looking for candidates who are committed, results-driven individuals, enthusiastic to learn available to start our geophysical survey training programme immediately. The aim of the role is to assist the post holder to achieve the knowledge, understanding and basic level of competency that allows them to step onto the associated career pathway within Headland (in this case geophysical assistant). As a geophysics role it is predominantly field-based, involving the undertaking of geophysical surveys through hand-carried, cart-based and towed equipment arrays; some office-based work may also be required either at our offices or elsewhere. You may also experience other aspects of work undertaken by the company and applications of geophysics during excavation. Headland is a Registered Organisation with CIfA, and you must adhere to our systems and processes which are in line with CIfA Standards and Ethics. As part of the Geophysics and Exploration team you will get involved in large and exciting projects across all parts of the United Kingdom and the EU. Working away and travelling to new places is a normal part of this role; therefore, willingness to travel is essential. The nature of the surveys varies from small scale projects which may be completed in a day or two to major infrastructure projects which may take several weeks. Virtually all the surveys will involve working away from your office base and travelling to new places is a normal part of this role. Weekend working may occasionally be required.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Essential Key Skills
- Willingness to work away from home
- Willing to work outdoors in all weather
- A “Can do” attitude and willingness to learn
- Good organisational & communication skills
- High level of use of English language
- Full UK manual driving licence and willingness to drive company vehicles
Desirable Skills
- Knowledge of MS Office
Benefits
- Competitive paid subsistence when applicable
- Employee assistance and health support scheme
- Paid accommodation when working away
- Paid H&S Training where applicable
- 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
- Time off in lieu of time worked above standard hours or overtime paid
- Annual profit discretionary bonus & performance-related bonus schemes, T&C apply
- Annual pay review
- Monthly clothing allowance
- 30 days annual leave, rising based on service length
- Extra annual leave purchase scheme
- 5%-6% employer contribution to pension scheme
- 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
Trainee Geophysicist in Cleckheaton employer: Headland Archaeology
Headland Archaeology is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration in the field of archaeological illustration. With competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, including annual leave and bonuses, employees are encouraged to grow through ongoing training and development opportunities. Working in Cleckheaton provides a unique chance to contribute to meaningful projects while being part of a supportive team dedicated to excellence in archaeology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Geophysicist in Cleckheaton
✨Get Involved in Local Fieldwork
Join local geoscience clubs or groups that organise fieldwork and excursions. Getting your hands dirty out in the field will not only boost your skills but can help you make connections with professionals in the industry. Plus, local insights can be incredibly valuable as you get to know the area!
✨Attend Geoscience Events and Conferences
Keep an eye out for geoscience conferences, workshops, or seminars happening in your area. These events are fantastic opportunities to learn, ask questions, and meet employers who might be on the lookout for trainees like us. Don’t be shy—make those connections!
✨Leverage University Career Services
Since you’re looking for a trainee position, definitely tap into your university's career services. They often have partnerships with companies and might even know about positions at Headland Archaeology before they go live. It’s a goldmine for entry-level roles!
✨Showcase Your Passion on Social Media
Start a blog or Instagram page where you share your thoughts on geoscience topics, experiments, or even cool places you’ve visited. It’s a fun way to demonstrate your passion and knowledge, and who knows? Someone at Headland Archaeology might notice you online, tipping the scales in your favour when they look for trainees!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Geophysicist in Cleckheaton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your scientific smarts!:When applying for the trainee role in geoscience, make sure your CV highlights relevant coursework, projects, or research you've done in earth sciences. We want to see your passion for geology, meteorology, or environmental science, so don’t hold back on sharing what excites you about these subjects!
Link your learning to real-world experience:If you’ve had any fieldwork, internships, or volunteering in geoscience-related settings, be sure to include that in your application. Highlight specific tasks you did or skills you gained, as this shows us how you're ready to jump into a trainee role with both knowledge and practical experience!
Craft a compelling cover letter:In your cover letter, let us know why you’re particularly interested in geoscience and how this internship will help you grow. Mention any specific areas you're keen to explore—whether it's climate change, mineralogy, or geology. The more personal, the better!
Keep it concise and relevant:As this is a trainee position, we’re looking for potential and willingness to learn. Keep your CV and cover letter focused and to the point, making sure every detail reinforces your enthusiasm for geoscience. And remember, you can apply directly through our website—easy peasy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Headland Archaeology
✨Brush Up on Your Earth Science Basics
Before your interview at Headland Archaeology, make sure you revisit core concepts in geology, physical geography, and environmental science. You might find that they throw you some technical questions related to earth materials or geospatial analysis, so being sharp on these topics will really help.
✨Get Hands-On with Fieldwork Examples
As a trainee in geoscience, you could be asked about your previous experiences with fieldwork or lab techniques. Prepare to share specific examples of any projects or studies you've undertaken—this practical insight can make you stand out as someone who’s ready to get their hands dirty.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm for Learning
As you're entering a trainee role, show Headland Archaeology that you're keen to absorb knowledge. Talk about your eagerness to learn about the latest tools like GIS software or data modelling techniques—this gives them confidence that you’re a great fit for their training programme.
✨Prepare to Discuss Current Environmental Issues
Be ready to chat about recent events or breakthroughs in earth sciences, like climate change impacts or sustainable practices. This not only shows that you're engaged with the field, but it also helps you connect your passion to the mission of Headland Archaeology, especially if they focus on sustainability.
