Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Help maintain and enhance the National Trust's archaeological records while working with volunteers.
- Company: Join the National Trust, caring for 24,000 archaeological sites across the South West.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, a substantial pension scheme, and discounts on gym memberships and cinema tickets.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on preserving heritage while collaborating with passionate teams and volunteers.
- Qualifications: Professional experience in archaeology, GIS knowledge, and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: We celebrate diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 21600 - 36000 £ per year.
Job Description
Are you enthusiastic about caring for our historic environment, making archaeology and cultural heritage accessible to the public and working with volunteers? We're looking for an Assistant Archaeologist to join us to help deliver our programmes to care for and conserve our archaeological sites across the South West.
What it's like to work here
The National Trust looks after almost 24,000 archaeological sites across its properties in the South West, including buildings, earthworks, monuments and landscapes that make up our unique historic environment. Our South West team is made of five archaeologists who hold incredible knowledge and expertise and share the common purpose of caring for the nation's heritage and landscapes, as well as making these accessible to all. We're for ever, for everyone and we really mean that.
What you'll be doing
The main focus of the role will be to help maintain the National Trust's Record of the Historic Environment (NTRHE). You'll report directly to one of the regional archaeologists and will work with others in the region to manage, update and enhance the records in the NTRHE to ensure we can make well-informed decisions for managing the historic environment.
In addition, a successful scheme of regular condition monitoring of archaeological assets has been developed nationally, working alongside volunteers and on-site property staff, to conduct the work on the ground. This condition monitoring enables us to prioritise conservation work and to ensure the continued protection and preservation of the assets in our care. You'll be helping us to roll out this scheme across the South West and support teams of volunteers conducting the work and liaising with property teams, as well as enhancing the data they'll be using.
Who we're looking for
Drawing on your knowledge of volunteering and archaeology, success in this role depends on being highly motivated and highly organised, skilled at bringing people together and a clear communicator:
• Professional archaeologist with experience working in an archaeological environment
• Good knowledge and experience using GIS and databases
• Experience working with HER data (we use HBSMR software)
• Ability to motivate and inspire people
• High level organisational and time management skills
• Ability to communicate with a wide variety of people
• Flexibility to travel and work across a wide geographical area in the South West of England
• Experience collaborating with volunteers
• Knowledge and understanding of landscape archaeology
The package
The National Trust has the motto 'For everyone, for ever' at its heart. We're working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It's important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we're for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
• Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
• Rental deposit loan scheme
• Season ticket loan
• EV car lease scheme
• Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
• Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
• Flexible working whenever possible
• Employee assistance programme
• Free parking at most Trust places
Click here to find out moreabout the benefits we offer to support you.
Closing Date: 02 February 2025
To apply for this vacancy simply click the 'apply' button in the top right hand side of the page.
If you need any help with your application, i.e. due to technical difficulties, please call us on 0370 240 0274 or email us at
If you require an adjustment to the application process, for example due to disability or medical condition, please call us on 0370 240 0274 or email us at and we'll support you as best as we can. For examples of how, please see our supporting you page.
EqualOpportunities Statement
The National Trust celebrates diversity and is committed to creating a fair and equal society, free from discrimination. You can read more about our commitment to inclusion and diversity here .
Safeguarding Statement
The National Trust is committed to a safe recruitment processes to help the organisation attract and appoint the right staff/volunteer for the role and responsibilities as set out in the vacancy advert. We will not accept applicants who are not suitable to work with children, young people or adults at risk. If you have any questions around your suitability for this vacancy, please contact the people service centre.
Please note we reserve the right to close this advert early and therefore we encourage you to apply for this position early.
JBRP1_UKTJ
Assistant Archaeologist employer: The National Trust
Contact Detail:
The National Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Archaeologist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the National Trust's archaeological sites in the South West. Understanding the specific sites and their historical significance will help you demonstrate your passion for the role during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the National Trust, especially those in archaeological roles. They can provide valuable insights into the work culture and expectations, which can be beneficial for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience with GIS and databases by preparing examples of past projects where you utilized these skills. Being able to discuss your hands-on experience will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight any volunteer management experience you have. The role emphasizes working with volunteers, so demonstrating your ability to inspire and organize teams will be crucial.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Archaeologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Assistant Archaeologist position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required skills, such as experience with GIS and HER data.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experience in archaeology, volunteer management, and any specific software knowledge like HBSMR. Use keywords from the job description to make your application stand out.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for archaeology and cultural heritage. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to work with volunteers and manage archaeological records.
Highlight Your Communication Skills: Since the role requires clear communication with various stakeholders, provide examples in your application of how you've successfully communicated in past roles, especially in collaborative environments.
How to prepare for a job interview at The National Trust
✨Show Your Passion for Archaeology
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for archaeology and cultural heritage during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've engaged with these topics in the past, whether through volunteer work or personal projects.
✨Demonstrate Your Organizational Skills
Since the role requires high-level organizational and time management skills, be prepared to discuss how you prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively. Consider sharing a situation where you successfully coordinated a project or worked with volunteers.
✨Familiarize Yourself with GIS and HER Data
Brush up on your knowledge of GIS and databases, especially HBSMR software. Be ready to discuss your experience using these tools and how they can contribute to maintaining the National Trust's Record of the Historic Environment.
✨Communicate Clearly and Effectively
As a clear communicator, it's essential to convey your ideas effectively. Practice articulating your thoughts on how you would motivate and inspire volunteers, as well as how you would liaise with property teams to enhance data usage.
