Why join us?
Bringing together leading minds and practitioners in the sector, Wessex Archaeology is a trusted archaeology and heritage service provider and educational charity. From our network of international offices, we work in partnership with our clients to deliver sustainable solutions to manage the historic environment - above and below ground, and underwater. We are committed to our social impact, using the knowledge and connections we make through our commercial activities as a catalyst to engage the communities in which we work.
Join us and you’ll be part of a collaborative team committed to shaping a better future for our staff, the sector, and the world. As well as having knowledgeable and dedicated colleagues, you’ll have an opportunity to access a variety of fascinating and high-profile projects and develop your skills and knowledge along the way.
This is a one-year full time fixed term contract to cover maternity leave. As a key member of the team, you will be expected to input into all aspects of physical and digital archive preparation and deposition. . This will involve scanning records; photo linking; metadata creation; collation and indexing of physical and digital archives; OASIS updates; database entry; transfer of title documentation; implementation of selection strategies; supervised handling/boxing of material (artefacts and ecofacts) in line with current standards, and specific museum/digital data repository requirements. You will be working on a wide variety of projects, collating data from every department to make it accessible for future reuse.
The role would suit someone with an interest in pursuing a career in archiving and data processing. You should be IT proficient, organised, methodical, have excellent attention to detail and good communication skills. You should be happy working both within a team and on your own initiative. The role is office based, but with some flexibility for home working once trained in aspects of digital archiving.
Main responsibilities will include:
- As an archivist your role will involve preparing and depositing archaeological data. Wessex Archaeology’s ability to provide a high-quality service for its client’s rests on the quality of the primary work you do, and the accuracy of the records you make.
- You will follow Wessex Archaeology’s standard archives methods and processes (as set out in the Archive Guidelines) and other appropriate instructions, under the direction of supervising staff, seeking their guidance and assistance where necessary.
- Archaeological remains are a finite resource, and you have a responsibility to ensure an accurate and appropriate record of the remains is ready for deposition with museums. This will form the permanent record essential for the preservation of archaeological information for the future, and upon which any interpretation of the archaeological resource is based.
- The decisions you make, and strategies you employ in your work require quality and care in practice and recording, to maximise the data recoverable from the archaeological resource. This work will be the basis for the public dissemination of the results of the fieldwork, including its publication in both academic and popular media.
- Wessex Archaeology is committed to creating a very high-quality product. This is achieved by the efficiency, reliability and excellence of the work you undertake as a member of the team. It is the responsibility of those more senior to help you understand the importance and value of the work you do. At the same time, it is your responsibility to improve, increase and share your skills and knowledge, seeking guidance and support whenever necessary.
- Communication is essential in your role. You must be respectful and mindful of your audiences and act appropriately.
Desirable certification
- Qualification in Archaeology or relevant discipline
- Membership of professional body e.g. CIfA
- Driving License
What can you look forward to?
Our focus is on creating a collaborative culture where people can thrive, develop and where safety and wellbeing come first. From anonymising candidate data in our recruitment process to continuous improvements in our benefits, we’re committed to creating a safe, fair, and inclusive working environment.
We offer:
Full details of our benefits package are available on our website.
How to apply
Interested in working with us? For all the details about how to apply visit Vacancies | Wessex Archaeology
Email your completed application form and equal opportunities monitoring form by 30 May 2025 wa.applications@wessexarch.co.uk All applications will be acknowledged within 2 weeks of the closing date. Interviews will be held in June. If you have questions about the role, then please contact the Archives Manager Jessica Irwin j.irwin@wessexarch.co.uk or the Bristol Archives Supervisor Frances Ward f.ward@wessexarch.co.uk
We welcome applications from people with disabilities and aim to be supportive in our recruitment and employment practices. Please let us know if you need any special arrangements or adjustments in the application or interview process.
Successful candidates must have proof of identity and eligibility to work in the UK by the start of their employment.