Archaeologist

Milton Keynes

Salary £28,532 - £29,255

Fixed-term (six-month) contracts available, with immediate start dates.

Cotswold Archaeology is one of the largest and most respected archaeological practices in the country, employing over 380 professional staff and carrying out some of the most interesting, complex and largest archaeological and heritage projects across England and Wales.

We are seeking Experienced Archaeologists and Archaeologists across all four of our offices to work on a range of exciting archaeological projects, spanning different time periods. With a strong ongoing program of fieldwork, we are looking for motivated, dedicated individuals to join our team.

Cotswold Archaeology has projects located in the vicinity of our offices, but for these roles there will be a requirement to be rostered on protracted away projects where we will provide accommodation and the opportunity to accrue lieu and overtime.

Where away work is required good quality accommodation will be provided, along with subsistence payments. (£24 per each night where eligible).

What we offer

Along with a starting salary above the CIfA minimum, we offer a highly competitive benefits package including:

30 days annual leave (including statutory holidays) - please note that the annual leave allowance will be prorated for the duration of contract.
Defined contribution pension scheme
Life insurance scheme
Paid CIfA membership subscription (following qualifying period)
Company sick pay - prorated for the duration of contract.
A generous lieu scheme operated for all driving time, and time spent in excess of 45 minutes each way as a passenger, outside of the normal 7.5 hour working day (able to accumulate up to 10 days additional lieu time annually)
Overnight accommodation and subsistence when working on away projects.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and a network of mental health first aiders across the organisation.
Personal protective equipment

Membership of the CIfA at PCIfA level is desirable, as is possession of a current and valid CSCS Health and Safety Card or CSCS test pass. Although new CSCS cards are not currently being issued to the archaeological sector, successful applicants without a current and valid CSCS card or test pass, will be expected to pass the CITB HS&E Operatives Test, which will be arranged and paid for by CA.

A full manual driving licence is desirable.

The Details

Please note all salaries quoted are annual equivalents based on a 37.5-hour week.

Archaeologists £28,532 - £29,255 Dependent on Experience

We are seeking enthusiastic and skilled individuals to join our existing team. Your core skills and experience should include manual excavation, the recording of archaeological features, proven experience in commercial archaeology and the recovery of artefacts or samples. You should also be able to complete stratigraphic matrices, photograph archaeological features and sites, and compose accurate measured drawings. Familiarity with GPS surveying is desirable.

Job Description

Role: Archaeologist

Pay Scale: Scp 9 - 10

Department: Fieldwork

Location: Milton Keynes

Reports to: Project Supervisor

Purpose of role

To undertake archaeological field investigations, including manual excavation and the collection and recording of data, under the direction of a designated Project Leader.

Main duties and responsibilities

Assist in the successful completion of fieldwork projects, including fieldwalking, evaluation, excavation, finds processing, data entry and archiving.
Accurately record investigation data using pro-forma recording sheets and registers, scale drawings and photographs, in accordance with CA procedures.
Recover artefacts and environmental samples in accordance with CA procedures and recognised industry standards.
Carry out manual excavation of features accurately and efficiently with a wide variety of tools.
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of archaeological periods and practice.
Deal courteously with sponsors and clients of CA, officers of other bodies and members of the public.
Create and maintain accurate and well organised administrative records.
Assist in the training and support of Trainee Archaeologists.
Undertake all training provided by Cotswold Archaeology applicable to the role.
Perform all duties in line with CA’s Health and Safety Policy and Systems or those for whom CA is working.

Personal specification

Essential

Knowledge and understanding of archaeological practice.
Previous experience of commercial archaeology
The ability to deal efficiently and courteously with clients of CA, officers of other bodies, members of the public and colleagues,
Ability to create and maintain accurate and well organised administrative records.
Ability to work to deadlines.
Ability and willingness to undertake away work including some extended away work when required.

Desirable

Some demonstrable experience of machine supervision/watching brief undertaken in a commercial context
The ability to assist in the training and support of Trainee Archaeologists.
Survey skills, including ability to operate Leica GPS/TST.
Full Manual Driving Licence
Experience of and confidence in driving 4x4 vehicles, vans and minibuses.
Membership of CIfA
CSCS/EUSR card or equivalent

Cotswold Archaeology is an equal opportunities employer. All applications are assessed solely on the candidate’s relevant skills and experience relevant to the role.

We will take into consideration any reasonable adjustments required to support you. Should you need adjustments during the recruitment process, or require additional support related to neurodiversity or for any other reason, please let us know by contacting

Applicants must already have the legal right to live and work in the UK as defined by UK Visas and Immigration

Closing date: Applications need to be submitted by 5pm Friday 23rd October 2026

However, we will be reviewing applications as they are submitted and making offers where possible.

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