POST-EXCAVATION ASSISTANT (ARCHIVES)
Salary: from £23,400-£24,500 (depending on experience and level of expertise) + generous benefits package
Hours: Full time, 37.5h/week (part time and flexible working considered)
Location: Headland South & East Office, Silsoe, Bedfordshire
Contract Type: Permanent, subject to 6 month probation period (temporary can be considered if preferred)
Closing Date: 9am on Mon 4th Sep 2023
Headland Archaeology is offering an excellent opportunity for a conscientious and enthusiastic person to help shape our Archives Team.
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 four 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.12000 employees and c.170 environmentally led companies.
In Headland we are proud of our people. We will support you to your meet your goals and train you in specific relevant skills to feel confident and succeed in your role.
The role
We are looking to recruit a post-excavation assistant to work in our South & East office, Silsoe, Bedfordshire. The role will be mainly office based, dealing predominantly with archaeological archives, preparing paper, physical and digital archives to internal standards and the requirements of the relevant receiving bodies. It also includes basic finds, samples, data and other post-excavation tasks. Any existing experience will be valued but is not essential as training can be given. There is also the potential for the development of skills with the possibility of Headland supporting training where the direction matches the company’s requirements.
The applicant must have a keen eye for detail and good organisational skills. They should have the ability to meet deadlines, be flexible and adapt to changing requirements. Good communication skills are essential. The applicant should also have the ability to work independently and within a wider team. We are looking for someone with enthusiasm and energy to join the team.
Key responsibilities will include
- Preparation and deposition of project archives (physical, documentary and digital etc)
- Undertake processing of artefacts and ecofacts (animal bone, human remains)
- Undertake processing of environmental samples (including waterlogged samples)
- Undertake packaging, storage, transportation and handling of artefacts and ecofacts
- Undertake finds first aid
- Maintenance of sample processing equipment and processing area
- Preparation of site paperwork and toolkits
- Site data entry (including finds and environmental data)
- Develop your own knowledge and skills
- Manage your time and other resources so that you can meet your objectives within the allocated budget
- Undertake other post-excavation tasks appropriate to your skills and knowledge
Essential skills
- Undergraduate degree in archaeology or related discipline and/or some relevant fieldwork experience.
- General working knowledge of the archaeology (all periods, materials and techniques) of the British Isles
- Basic understanding of UK archiving procedures and standards
- Experience in processing of artefacts/ecofacts and/or environmental samples
- Adherence to safe working practices, in particular to hazards associated with artefactual and environmental work
- IT skills, including databases and MS Office
- A good eye for detail and ability to accurately observe and record label, package and follow instructions
- Good communication skills and the ability to work alone or with a team
- Be passionate, motivated and excited about what you do!
Desired skills
- Knowledge and experience of archaeological archiving work
- Knowledge of issues surrounding finds first aid, conservation, packaging and long-term storage
- Full clean driving license (and a willingness to drive company vehicles)
- Membership of the CIfA at least at Practitioner level
Benefits we offer you:
- Relocation package
- Paid subsistence when working away
- Paid travel time when applicable
- Time off in lieu or you will be paid for time worked above standard hours
- Discretionary annual profit bonus & performance-related bonus schemes (Terms and conditions apply)
- 28 days annual leave, rising based on service length (including public holidays)
- 5%-6% employer contribution to pension scheme
- Income Protection Policy, after a year with Headland
- Health support scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme (advice on finance, mental health etc)
- Paid CIfA membership, CSCS card
- Regular H&S training
- Cycle to work scheme
- Extra annual leave purchase scheme
- Regular offers through RSK Group (e.g. Tastecard, Gym membership, Holidays and Entertainment)
Headland is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
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.
Send covering letter and CV and details of two references to Julie Franklin at jobs@headlandarchaeology.com quoting reference PXAA23
Postal applications will not be accepted. Details of references should include their name, relationship to the applicant, postal address, email address and phone number.
We reserve the right to interview and appoint before the closing date.
Informal inquiries concerning the role can be made to Julie Franklin, Archiving Manager – julie.franklin@headlandarchaeology.com