At a Glance
- Tasks: Get hands-on training in field archaeology, from excavation to recording finds.
- Company: Join Oxford Archaeology, a leading independent archaeological practice in Europe.
- Benefits: Earn £26,450, rising to £27,101, plus a pension scheme and 21 days holiday.
- Other info: Work on exciting projects across England and enjoy excellent career development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your archaeology career with real-world experience and expert mentorship.
- Qualifications: Ideal for graduates in archaeology or related fields with a clean driving licence.
The predicted salary is between 26450 - 27101 € per year.
Salary £26,450 rising to £27,101 after 12 weeks.
About Oxford Archaeology
Oxford Archaeology is one of the largest independent archaeological practices in Europe. With offices in Cambridge, Lancaster and Oxford, it is a registered heritage charity that trains the next generation of archaeologists through a full‑time paid training programme.
Programmes
- Cambridge office: fieldwork across southern England and the East Midlands, including large Iron Age and Roman settlements in Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire, large evaluations in Essex and excavations of prehistoric to medieval remains in Suffolk.
- Oxford office: local and away‑based projects, such as Roman and Iron Age settlements, a large Mesolithic flint excavation, and several projects within the City of Oxford.
What the Role Involves
You will be trained in all aspects of a field archaeologist role, from excavation techniques to recording features and finds, under the supervision of experienced mentors. The work is predominantly on open‑area excavations, recording archaeological remains from all periods, and may take you anywhere in the country. Sites beyond the local area may offer 7‑day accommodation.
Who is it For?
Graduates with a degree in archaeology or a related discipline, who have little prior fieldwork experience, are ideal candidates. A clean driving licence and ability to be based near or relocate to one of our offices is preferred.
Duration & Pay
The programme lasts 6 months, split into two 12‑week modules. You will receive an initial 12‑week contract at £26,450 per annum. After scoring the required milestones at 12 weeks, you will be offered a pay rise to £27,101.
Learning Goals
- 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
Benefits
Competitive salary of £26,450, rising to £27,101. Company pension scheme with 6% employer contributions; access to Local Government Pension Scheme after 10 years or in project management roles. 21 days annual holiday allowance (50% for the 6‑month training, plus additional leave for).
Fieldwork Graduate Trainee Programme (6 months) - Oxford and Cambridge employer: Oxford Archaeology
Oxford Archaeology is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for graduates to immerse themselves in the field of archaeology through a comprehensive training programme. With a strong commitment to employee development, competitive salaries, and a supportive work culture, staff can expect to grow their skills while working on fascinating projects across southern England and beyond. The collaborative environment fosters learning and innovation, making it an ideal place for those passionate about heritage and archaeology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Fieldwork Graduate Trainee Programme (6 months) - Oxford and Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to alumni from your university or connect with professionals in the archaeology field on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights into the industry.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of archaeological techniques and recent projects. Show us your passion for the field and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to our exciting projects!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a good follow-up! After an interview, drop us a quick thank-you email. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in our minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing the role. We love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us!
We think you need these skills to ace Fieldwork Graduate Trainee Programme (6 months) - Oxford and Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects your passion for archaeology and highlights any relevant experience, even if it's just academic. We want to see how your background fits with the fieldwork role, so don’t hold back!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express why you're excited about the Fieldwork Graduate Trainee Programme and how you can contribute to our team. Keep it personal and engaging – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Skills:Highlight any skills that are relevant to fieldwork, like teamwork, problem-solving, or even your driving licence. We’re looking for candidates who can adapt and thrive in various situations, so let us know what you bring to the table!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Archaeology
✨Know Your Archaeology
Brush up on your knowledge of archaeological methods and techniques, especially those relevant to fieldwork. Familiarise yourself with the types of sites mentioned in the job description, like Iron Age and Roman settlements, so you can discuss them confidently during the interview.
✨Show Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for archaeology shine through! Share any relevant experiences, even if they’re from your studies or volunteer work. This will help demonstrate your commitment to the field and your eagerness to learn and grow in the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the training programme and the projects you'll be involved in. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in the role and helps you understand what to expect if you get the position.
✨Highlight Your Adaptability
Fieldwork can take you anywhere, so emphasise your flexibility and willingness to travel or relocate. Mention any previous experiences where you adapted to new environments or challenges, as this will reassure them that you can handle the demands of the job.
