Archaeologists

Headland Archaeology (UK) Ltd; Thurrock, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading archaeological firm in the United Kingdom seeks enthusiastic individuals for full-time roles in commercial archaeology starting January 2026. Ideal candidates will have at least three months of fieldwork experience, showcasing a genuine interest in archaeology. Responsibilities include participating in archaeological evaluations and excavations while working on significant projects across the UK. A comprehensive benefits package, ongoing training, and opportunities for career growth are provided.

Benefits

28 days annual leave

Paid accommodation when applicable

Cycle to work scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Paid CIfA membership

Qualifications

• 3 months of archaeological fieldwork experience on varied sites.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Valid CSCS card and membership of the CIfA are desirable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct a range of archaeological evaluations and excavations.
• Work on large and exciting projects across central and eastern England.
• Involve in office-based tasks as part of a cohesive team.

Skills

Genuine interest in archaeology

Good organisational & communication skills

Ability to carry out prolonged manual work outdoors

Ability to work under pressure

Substantial knowledge of MS Office & English

Education

Degree in Archaeology or relevant subject

Job description

Salary: from £26,098.80 – £27,139.88 (depending on experience) + generous benefits package

Hours: Full time, 37.5h/week

Location: Sites across UK including Tilbury, Essex, Cambridgeshire and East Anglia

Closing Date: 5pm on 31 st January 2026

Contract Type: fixed-term contract – Dec 2026 (possibility of extension)

Are you fascinated by the past and looking for a career in commercial archaeology? Do you want to be part of big infrastructure schemes and work on interesting projects?

This is an excellent opportunity, if you are looking to expand your knowledge in archaeology, improve your skills and be part of a team who delivers high quality archaeological work.

Why Should You Apply?

We are a privately owned archaeological business, part of the RSK Group, a leader in integrated environmental, engineering, and technical services. We provide heritage services to the development and construction sectors in UK and across the world. With three offices in England and one in Scotland, we offer our employees:

• Unique knowledge and expertise. For more than 20 years, Headland has provided not only business-focused archaeology but also people-focused business. We are highly respected within our industry for our achievements in innovation, tailor-made development coaching and training, and our expertise in commercial archaeology.
• Strong pioneering spirit. Our corporate culture is characterised by a healthy appetite for originality and development.
• Stable company with excellent growth. Over the years, we have demonstrated steady, positive economic development and formed successful partnerships.
• Good work environment. You will be surrounded by colleagues who are pleasant, professional, and enthusiastic about their work.
• Opportunity to influence. You get to work in an open climate, close to decision makers and with the possibility of making a difference.
• Part of RSK group. You will have further opportunities to become involved in nationally and internationally prominent projects with exciting prospects for career development. The group has c.15,000 employees and c.230 environmentally lead companies.

The Role

We are looking to recruit enthusiastic, committed, results-driven individuals, available to start in January 2026. Ideally you would have at least three months’ experience in UK commercial archaeology, or relevant European commercial experience.

Your work will primarily involve conducting a range of archaeological evaluations and excavations as well as office-based tasks. As part of the fieldwork team you will get involved in several large and exciting projects across central, southern, and eastern England. We have interesting projects including LBA-EIA enclosures, roman occupation and industry and medieval edge of settlement. Working away and travelling in new places is a normal part of this role. When conditions allow for staying away, we will provide you with high-quality accommodation and subsistence.

Our most recent works; which include well preserved IA/RB and Saxon landscapes, medieval and Post-medieval industrial sites in eastern England, prehistoric landscapes on the southern chalklands, industrial archaeology in Birmingham; illustrate the wide range of projects we have been commissioned to deliver.

In Headland we are proud of our people. We will support you to your meet your goals and train you in specific archaeological and other skills to feel confident and succeed in your role.

You must have the following essential criteria:

• Genuine interest in archaeology
• 3 months of archaeological field work experience preferably on sites of various periods and types
• Ability to carry out prolonged manual work in an outdoor environment in all weather
• Good organisational & communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure
• Substantial knowledge of MS Office & English language

A Degree in Archaeology, or in a relevant subject, membership of the CIfA and a valid CSCS card are desirable criteria for the role. Driving licence and willingness to drive in UK is a plus.

Benefits we offer you:

• Competitive paid subsistence when applicable
• Paid accommodation when applicable
• Use of cutting edge technology on site, e.g. paperless systems, iPads etc.
• Ongoing regular training in various areas e.g. Health & Safety, Technical areas and Transferable skills
• Time off in lieu for time worked above standard hours or overtime paid
• Annual profit discretionary bonus & performance-related bonus schemes
• Monthly clothing allowance
• 28 days annual leave, rising based on service length
• Extra annual leave purchase scheme
• 5%-6% employer contribution to pension scheme
• Income Protection Policy, after a year with Headland
• Life Assurance Policy, insuring you 4 times your annual salary, after a year with Headland
• Referral scheme with generous fee
• A support group of 30+ Mental Health First Aiders
• Regular offers through RSK Group (e.g. Tastecard, Gym membership discount, Holidays and Entertainment)
• Employee Assistance Programme (advice on finance, mental health etc)
• Paid CIfA membership
• Cycle to work scheme
• Being part of RSK Group

How to apply

You must have the right to work in the UK without restrictions. Proof of eligibility will be required prior to your commencement. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and we may fill existing vacancies before the closing date, so you are advised to submit your application as early as possible.

Equal opportunity employer statement.

Headland is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Headland Archaeology is committed to creating an inclusive recruitment process. If you have a disability or need any adjustments to enable you to take part in the interview, please contact us at [e-mail] so we can make suitable arrangements.