Senior or Principal - Heritage Consultant - Cambridge, Basingstoke, Guildford or London

What if you could do the kind of work the world needs? At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

A Little More About Your Role

The Cultural Heritage and Archaeology team is one of the largest heritage consultancies in the country, working across the UK and Ireland on all aspects of the historic environment (archaeology, built heritage, setting and design) throughout the full lifecycle of projects. We provide expert advice on an ever‑increasing portfolio of heritage‑related enquiries, addressing the management of change in our historic environment. Our work on high‑profile, large‑scale infrastructure projects is part of a multi‑disciplinary team that delivers high‑quality work while driving innovation within the heritage sector.

Responsibilities

• You will manage and deliver archaeology projects in the northern half of the country, mainly fieldwork projects.
• The role requires high‑level technical expertise and knowledge of archaeology and heritage, combined with commercial and business acumen.
• You will lead fieldwork projects from planning and consent applications to delivering bespoke archaeological strategies and works for developments and infrastructure.
• You will be expected to:

• Monitor and assure the work of WSP‑approved fieldwork subcontractors, both on‑site and in technical review of deliverables, including RAMS.
• Prepare competitive tenders and design the scope and methodology for archaeological fieldwork in accordance with WSP Health and Safety protocols and requirements.
• Produce or contribute to archaeological desk‑based assessment.
• Undertake stakeholder, curator and client liaison.

In addition, you will demonstrate the following:

• Experience of archaeological fieldwork project management (project, financial and staff management).
• Robust knowledge of Irish archaeology and history, full knowledge of the planning process and relevant environmental / heritage legislation and guidance.
• Experience in most or all of the following areas: heritage and planning, masterplanning, heritage conservation, heritage‑led regeneration, recreation and tourism, heritage sustainability masterplanning, placemaking, multi‑disciplinary collaboration and business development.
• Excellent writing skills and effective communication as a team player.
• A highly motivated, conscientious and efficient approach to work, able to meet deadlines and budgets within a busy consultancy environment.

About Us

We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms, united by a common purpose of creating positive, long‑lasting impacts on the communities we serve. With over 72,800 passionate people, including more than 9,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, we are dedicated to local communities and propelled by international expertise.

What’s in It for You

At WSP, work is just one aspect of your life. Our hybrid working policy allows you to work from home two days a week while collaborating in modern offices across the UK. We are committed to supporting our people’s health, wellbeing and work‑life balance through flexible arrangements, a comprehensive benefits programme and a culture of inclusion.

We celebrate integrity and respect, encouraging every employee to bring their authentic selves to work. Our Employee Resource Groups promote inclusivity and belonging across the organization.

We offer you opportunities for professional growth, training, mentoring and chartership, as well as part‑time and flexible working, the ability to purchase additional leave, and the option to use bank holiday entitlement to suit your needs.

Equal Opportunity

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria. Please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.