At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in archaeological fieldwork and excavation techniques.
- Company: Join Oxford Archaeology, a leading independent archaeological practice in Europe.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, paid travel, and generous holiday allowance.
- Other info: Exciting projects across the UK with opportunities for permanent roles.
- Why this job: Kickstart your archaeology career with real-world experience and mentorship.
- Qualifications: Degree in archaeology or related field; clean driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 26450 - 27101 £ per year.
About the Role
Oxford Archaeology is one of the largest independent archaeological practices in Europe. We have offices in Cambridge, Lancaster and Oxford and are a registered heritage charity. We are at the forefront of training the next generation of archaeologists, offering a full‑time paid training programme for enthusiastic graduate archaeologists to gain commercial fieldwork experience. Our Cambridge office has a busy and exciting programme of fieldwork across southern England and the East Midlands, including excavating large Iron Age and Roman settlements, large evaluations, and prehistoric to medieval remains. Our Oxford office has a busy programme of work both locally and on away‑based projects. The programme could take you anywhere in the country, including the east coast, and for sites further away from home accommodation can be made available.
Fieldwork Graduate Trainee Pathway
You will be trained in all aspects of a field archaeologist role, from excavation techniques to recording features and finds, under the supervision of an experienced mentor. The work will involve predominantly open‑area excavations where you will excavate and record archaeological remains from all periods. By the end of the programme you will be fully equipped to become a Fieldwork Archaeologist.
Who is OA’s Fieldwork Graduate Trainee Pathway for?
The programme is ideal for graduates with a degree in archaeology or a related discipline, with little prior fieldwork experience. A full clean driving licence and being based near or willing to relocate within a daily commutable distance of one of our offices is also required.
How long is OA’s GT Pathway?
The programme lasts for 6 months, split into two 12‑week modules. You will be offered an initial 12‑week contract with an annual salary of £26,450. After the first 12 weeks, successful completion of the assessment allows you to continue with a second 12‑week module at £27,101.
What will I learn on OA’s GT Pathway?
- Health and safety, including manual handling
- Recognition and understanding of context
- Safe use of hand excavation tools
- OA recording systems (Digital Recording System and Webmap)
- Producing accurate drawings
- Basic survey methods
- Artefact recognition
- Environmental sampling
- Site photography
What happens when I finish the GT Pathway?
Graduates who successfully complete the programme will be offered a full‑time permanent contract as a Fieldwork Archaeologist, subject to the availability of work. You will also have the necessary experience to obtain PCIfA accreditation with CIfA.
Employee Benefits
- Competitive constantly benchmarked salary of £26,450, rising to £27,101
- A company pension scheme with 6% employer contributions; after 10 years or in project management roles access to LGPS
- 21 days annual holiday allowance; for the 6‑month training the allowance is 50% plus additional days for bank holidays and a 3‑day office shutdown over Christmas
- Subsistence payment of £23.50 per night (tax‑free) and free single‑room accommodation for away‑based projects
- 37.5‑hour basic week with optional paid overtime at time‑and‑half for hours above 37.5, Monday‑Friday, Saturdays and double time on Sundays and bank holidays
- Paid travel time for journeys to site longer than one hour from the office and free transport from regional offices to sites
- Free high‑quality protective equipment (full breathable waterproofs, fleece, etc.)
- Comprehensive employee welfare policies, including the AXA Health Employee Assistance Programme Premier, generous paid sick leave, a network of mental‑health first aiders, and personal accident insurance
- 100% of CIfA subscription fees paid
- Cycle‑to‑work scheme
Equal Opportunities Statement
Oxford Archaeology is an Equal Opportunities employer. All applications are judged on the relevant skills and experience of the candidate, and not by gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, belief, age, nationality (other than where work permits may be required), or ethnicity. You must meet the requirements to live and work in the UK as set out by UK Visa and Immigration.
FIELDWORK GRADUATE TRAINEE PROGRAMME (6 MONTHS) – CAMBRIDGE – OXFORD employer: OXFORD ARCHAEOLOGY LTD
Oxford Archaeology is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for graduate archaeologists to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic and supportive environment. With a strong commitment to employee development, our Fieldwork Graduate Trainee Programme not only provides competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits but also fosters a culture of learning and growth, ensuring that trainees are well-prepared for a successful career in archaeology. Located in the vibrant city of Cambridge, employees enjoy access to exciting fieldwork projects across southern England, along with a range of welfare policies that prioritise their well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land FIELDWORK GRADUATE TRAINEE PROGRAMME (6 MONTHS) – CAMBRIDGE – OXFORD
✨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 OXFORD ARCHAEOLOGY LTD 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 OXFORD ARCHAEOLOGY LTD might notice you online, tipping the scales in your favour when they look for trainees!
We think you need these skills to ace FIELDWORK GRADUATE TRAINEE PROGRAMME (6 MONTHS) – CAMBRIDGE – OXFORD
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 OXFORD ARCHAEOLOGY LTD
✨Brush Up on Your Earth Science Basics
Before your interview at OXFORD ARCHAEOLOGY LTD, 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 OXFORD ARCHAEOLOGY LTD 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 OXFORD ARCHAEOLOGY LTD, especially if they focus on sustainability.
