Archaeological Illustrator

About us Wessex Archaeology is one of the UK’s leading providers of archaeological and heritage services, and an educational charity seeking to promote the education of the public in science, the arts, culture, and heritage. Our Studio comprises of an exciting and innovative blend of archaeological illustrators, designers, 2D and 3D artists, who provide a comprehensive and professional illustration, interpretation and design service, constantly developing new and creative ways to bringing the past to life.  

The position We are offering a fantastic opportunity for an experienced and enthusiastic Archaeological Illustrator to join our expanding Studio team and help provide support across our offices. This post can be based in any of our UK regional offices: Bristol, Sheffield, Meopham, Edinburgh or our head office in Salisbury. We offer flexible working with an option for partial or fulltime home working as required. Equipment and software supplied. The successful candidate will create a broad range of engaging products using both traditional and digital illustration skills. As a member of our Studio team, the post holder will receive support to develop their existing skills, expand their knowledge, and will be encouraged to explore new methods and specialisms.  This permanent post is a full-time appointment. A relocation package may also be available.  

Position requirements The successful candidate should have demonstrable previous experience working as an archaeological illustrator within a commercial environment and have a good understanding of professional standards for archaeological practice. 

Essential skills:

Education to Degree level in an appropriate subject or demonstrable experience to an equivalent level;

• Must have a good working knowledge of Adobe CCS and either GIS or Cad; 
• Be able to prepare illustrations for all levels of client reports;
• Have demonstratable experience in preparing publication illustrations; 
• The ability to learn new software and gain new skills;
• Show demonstratable good composition and layout skills; 
• Be both analytical and creative, with problem solving and interpretative skills;
• The ability to advise project staff of the best methods to achieve the desired aims;
• Show a systematic approach with attention to detail; 
• The ability to check, combine and clearly present pre and post-excavation data.

Additional skills an advantage:

• Have demonstratable experience of artefact illustration to publication standard;
• Experience creating promotional material for web content and community engagement;
• The ability to capture and edit video;
• Experience of design and typesetting:
• Experience creating reconstructions;
• Driving licence.

To be successful in the role, you’ll be:

Open to learning and receiving direction;

• Approachable in providing support, guidance and advice; 
• Able to communicate appropriately and respectfully; 
• Responsible and accountable for your work, actions and decisions; 
• Confident, innovative and show good judgement in problem solving and decision making; 
• Able to work collegiately across all departments and regional offices.
• Able to work independently when required and demonstrate a professional approach to work, colleagues, other professionals and clients.   

What will we provide?

The successful candidate will receive:

• an opportunity for Continuing Professional Development;
• a chance to expand their heritage interpretation skills;
• an opportunity to work for the largest archaeological company in the UK;
• an opportunity to work within one of the largest Studio teams in the heritage profession;
• an opportunity to help develop new workflows and products within the profession;
• an opportunity to expand their portfolio.  

Our commitment

The pressure of an increasingly demanding work culture in the UK is perhaps the most pressing challenge to the mental health of the population. At Wessex Archaeology, we are committed to promoting a healthy work-life balance, and many of our staff work flexibly, whether that be part-time, remote- or home-working, term time arrangements, compressed hours etc. Please talk to us about the flexibility you’ll need. We can’t promise to be able to give you exactly what you want, but we absolutely promise to listen and provide what we can.

Applications

Applicants are invited to submit a completed application form, which is available to download below, along with a copy of their CV and examples of their work; and returned by e-mail to wa.applications@wessexarch.co.uk 

Applications must be received by close of business on 10 December 2021. Receipt of all applications will be acknowledged. Candidates invited to interview will be expected to present their portfolio in an online interview via Microsoft Teams. For all queries, please contact Karen Nichols, Studio Manager k.nichols@wessexarch.co.uk

Whilst Wessex Archaeology welcomes applications from all sections of the community and is committed to promoting equality of opportunity, it is essential that the successful candidate must by the start of their employment have permission to work in the UK. Proof of identity and eligibility to work in the UK will be required prior to commencement of employment.