Planning Archaeologist

The Vacancy
MOLA is looking for a motivated, experienced and capable individual to join our Heritage Consultancy Team to deliver archaeological / heritage projects, principally in London and the south east, but also nationwide. Applications from experienced archaeologists and/or heritage specialists or those with other relevant experience are welcomed.
As one of the largest independent archaeological and heritage practices in the UK, MOLA offers continued career progression within the organisation, and the opportunity to expand and develop personal and professional skills into all aspects of archaeological practice, within a dynamic and interesting environment. In the longer term there are career opportunities to move into senior management roles within the organisation, contributing to the strategic direction of the business. Flexibility and innovation are key factors in the success of any organisation, and you will be encouraged to develop your own solutions and approaches to your projects, with the independence to manage your own time and priorities.
We have a diverse and interesting portfolio of exciting projects in the southeast and throughout the UK and are growing the business and client base. You will have the opportunity to join a close-knit team and to contribute to the growth of the business.
The role
The successful candidate will be part of MOLA\’s Heritage Consultancy Team based in London and will undertake a range of archaeological and heritage projects, principally Desk Based Assessments, for a range of projects including input into Environmental Impact Assessments, typically in London and the southeast, but occasionally further afield. You will report to the Lead Consultant and will work on a range of projects with a team of Planning Archaeologists, Heritage Consultants and Buildings Archaeologists. You will be required to maintain high standards and produce the quality of work expected of MOLA, while also completing projects within set timescales and budgets. Health and safety considerations in all working practices are essential.
You will have demonstrable experience of research and preparation of Desk Based Assessments and other related heritage reports, including Environmental Statements. MOLA is commitment to the career development of our staff and offer opportunities for the right candidate to develop their skills as part of MOLA\’s Heritage Consultancy Team.
Membership of CIfA or IHBC, or willingness to apply is required. MOLA will pay for application and membership fees. A full clean driving licence, or commitment to learn to drive, is desirable as regular travel may be required.
You will have excellent communication skills, with the ability to manage your own workload and prioritise accordingly. A suitable level of experience in working as part of a team, and project delivery, is expected. The successful candidate will be able to build productive and professional relationships with all our partners across the sector including clients and their developments and design teams, consultants and regulators. Good problem-solving skills and the ability to work as part of multi-disciplinary teams are essential.
BENEFITS
We offer a range of benefits to our employees, including:

• Free access to over 900 museums, galleries, and exhibitions
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Employer contribution pension scheme
• Healthcare cash plan
• Generous sick pay provision
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Equality and Diversity Networks
• Generous parental leave
• Season ticket loans and emergency salary advances
• Relevant professional subscriptions paid (e.g. CIfA)
• Cycle to work scheme.

Please contact for any additional information about the role. Applications without an application form will not be considered.
HOW TO APPLY
You can apply via our recruitment portal on the MOLA website.
For full details of the required competencies and experience, please download the Job Description and Personal Specification.
The closing date for all applications is:10th August 2025
Please note all applicants must have the right to work in the UK without restrictions. Proof of eligibility will be required prior to commencement.
MOLA is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.
The Company
MOLA is an experienced and innovative archaeology practice. We have been providing independent, professional heritage advice and services for over 40 years across the UK and internationally on schemes both large and small. Our commercial services are designed to help our development, infrastructure and construction sector clients to meet their planning process requirements swiftly and expertly, with the certainty and value they need.
As an education charity our aim is to inspire people to be curious about their heritage. We are proud of our award-winning community engagement and education programmes, which are founded on partnership and participation. As an Independent Research Organisation, we set out to share the knowledge and information we generate with the widest audience possible for the benefit of society. The research we conduct as part of the planning and development process takes place alongside our own research framework.
The Benefits
Generous annual leave allowance
Cycle to work scheme
Healthcare cash plan
Generous sick pay provision
Employee Assistance Programme
Gym discounts
Generous parental leave
PPE provided
Relevant professional subscriptions paid
Employer contribution pension scheme
Free access to over 900 museums, galleries & exhibitions
Season ticket loans #J-18808-Ljbffr