Locations: Edinburgh, Hereford, Silsoe, Cleckheaton or Boxworth. We will also consider candidates based at RSK Group offices, including Romsey, Didcot and Manchester. Regular travel to sites across the UK will be required.
Contract Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 30/09/2026
Are you fascinated by the past and looking to further your career in commercial archaeology? Do you want to be part of big infrastructure schemes, and supervise interesting projects?
Do you want the opportunity, support and encouragement to prepare reports for the excavations you work on?
This is an excellent opportunity, if you are looking to expand your knowledge in managing commercial archaeology, improve your skills and be part of a team who delivers high quality archaeological work.
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. For the past 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.
The Role
We are looking to recruit dedicated, results-driven individuals, available to start immediately on a permanent basis. You will have at least three years’ experience in British commercial archaeology, or relevant European commercial experience.
Your work will primarily involve conducting a range of archaeological investigations, evaluations/excavations and supervising plant, as well as office-based research, analysis, and reporting. As part of the fieldwork team you will get involved in several large and exciting projects across the UK. We have interesting projects including medieval and Roman excavations, and IA/RB agricultural and industrial landscapes on linear schemes.
Working away and travelling to new places is a normal part of this role; therefore, willingness to travel around the UK is essential. When required you will be expected to work from your contracted office – getting to/from the office will be your responsibility.
Our most recent works, which include well preserved IA/RB and Saxon landscapes; medieval and Post-medieval industrial sites in eastern England; prehistoric landscapes on the southern chalklands; and industrial archaeology in Birmingham illustrate the wide range of projects we have been commissioned to deliver.
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.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
You must have the following essential criteria:
- Accomplished field archaeologist
- Experience in running archaeological projects
- Experience of the archaeological supervision of plant
- A demonstrable portfolio of reports
- Ability to work under pressure and use your own initiative
- Ability to carry out prolonged manual work in an outdoor environment in all weather
- Good organisational skills
- Experience in managing small to medium sized teams
- Embrace inclusion and diversity as a leader
- Willingness to develop your people skills and attend mental health awareness course
- Driving licence and willingness to drive company vehicles in UK
- Substantial knowledge of MS Office & English language
- Willingness to work away from home
Desirable Skills
- CIfA membership
- Degree in Archaeology or related subject
- SHEQ accreditations (Asbestos Awareness, Cat & Genny, 4x4, Confined Spaces, Banksman, First Aid, SSSTS, CSCS card)
Benefits
- Competitive paid subsistence when applicable
- Paid accommodation when working away
- Use of cutting edge technology on site, e.g. paperless systems, iPads 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&Cs 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
- 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
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.
Project Officer employer: Headland Archaeology
Headland Archaeology is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant city of Manchester, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. Employees benefit from comprehensive professional development opportunities, mentorship from experienced leaders, and the chance to work on diverse projects that make a meaningful impact on heritage conservation. With a commitment to quality and excellence, Headland provides a supportive environment where your expertise in built heritage can thrive.
