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: Potential for permanent roles and professional accreditation after the programme.
- Why this job: Kickstart your archaeology career with real-world projects and mentorship.
- Qualifications: Recent graduates in archaeology or related fields with a clean driving licence.
The predicted salary is between 27640 - 28320 £ per year.
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 offer a full‑time paid training programme for enthusiastic graduate archaeologists to gain commercial fieldwork experience. Our Cambridge office runs a busy programme of fieldwork across southern England and the East Midlands, covering large Iron Age and Roman settlements, evaluations, and prehistoric to medieval remains. Our Oxford office runs local and away‑based projects, including Roman and Iron Age settlements, a large Mesolithic flint excavation, and several projects within the City of Oxford.
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. You will mainly work on open‑area excavations across all periods throughout England. For sites away from home, 7‑day accommodation may be provided. The programme lasts 6 months and is split into two 12‑week modules. The initial 12‑week contract starts with an annual salary of £27,640. After 12 weeks, upon achieving the required scores, you will receive a pay rise to £28,320.
Who is the Pathway for?
Graduates with a degree in archaeology or a related discipline, who have limited fieldwork experience. A clean driving licence and proximity to an Oxford Archaeology office (or willingness to relocate) are expected.
Core Learning Goals
- Health and safety, including manual handling
- Recognition and understanding of context
- Safe use of hand excavation tools
- OA recording systems (including our Digital Recording System and Webmap)
- Producing accurate drawings
- Basic survey methods
- Artefact recognition
- Environmental sampling
- Site photography
What happens after the Pathway?
Trainees who successfully complete the programme will be offered a full‑time permanent contract as a Fieldwork Archaeologist, subject to availability of work. They will also have earned the experience required to obtain PCIfA accreditation with CIfA.
Benefits
- Competitive salary (£27,640, rising to £28,320).
- A company pension scheme with 6% employer contributions, with access to the Local Government Pension Scheme after 10 years or in project management roles.
- 21 days annual holiday allowance (adjusted to 50% for the 6‑month programme), additional leave for bank holidays, and an office shutdown over Christmas adding 3 days.
- 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 overtime and double time on Sundays and bank holidays.
- Paid travel time for journeys over one hour from the office and free transport from regional offices to sites.
- Free high‑quality personal protective equipment.
- Comprehensive employee welfare policies including AXA Health Employee Assistance Programme, paid sick leave, and a network of mental‑health first aiders.
- 100% coverage of CIfA subscription fees.
- Cycle to work scheme.
Closing Date Friday 31st July 2026
Equal Opportunities
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, 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) – OXFORD AND CAMBRIDGE employer: Oxford Archaeology
Oxford Archaeology is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for graduate archaeologists to gain hands-on experience in a supportive and dynamic environment. With a strong commitment to employee welfare, competitive salaries, and comprehensive training under experienced mentors, our Fieldwork Graduate Trainee Programme not only equips you with essential skills but also paves the way for future career advancement within the field of archaeology. Join us in our vibrant offices in Oxford and Cambridge, where your passion for heritage can flourish alongside a dedicated team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land FIELDWORK GRADUATE TRAINEE PROGRAMME (6 MONTHS) – OXFORD AND CAMBRIDGE
✨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 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 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) – OXFORD AND CAMBRIDGE
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
✨Brush Up on Your Earth Science Basics
Before your interview at Oxford 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 Oxford 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 Oxford Archaeology, especially if they focus on sustainability.
