Senior Project Officer – Archaeology (Milton Keynes)

About the role

The Senior Project Officer will lead the archaeological direction and site management of Cotswold Archaeology’s most prestigious fieldwork projects in Milton Keynes, ensuring performance targets are met and the quality of recording is assured.

Key responsibilities

• Lead officer on site managing delivery to time, budget, quality and health & safety requirements.
• Manage and develop staff through training, coaching and improved practices.
• Assure the quality of archaeological understanding and oversee compilation of archives to required standards.
• Author reports to publication standard.
• Monitor and report project progress, budgets, logistics, staff and H&S issues to Project Managers and liaise with clients, local government and contractors.
• Ensure accurate completion of administrative records such as timesheets, plant and allocation sheets.
• Deploy and maintain vehicles, plant and equipment and keep accurate records.
• Prepare risk assessments and ensure projects comply with Cotswold Archaeology health & safety policy.
• Assist Project Managers in pre‑project planning, including schemes of investigation, trench plans, service information and landowner contact.
• Deputise for the Project Manager where appropriate and promote public awareness through displays, publications, media liaison and lectures.

Required profile

• Knowledge and expertise in archaeological practice across all periods of Britain.
• Experience supervising large fieldwork and desk‑based projects.
• Understanding of business needs, budgets and timescales in commercial archaeology.
• Ability to write reports to publication standard.
• Ability to organise, motivate, train, appraise and direct staff.
• Good working knowledge of health and safety requirements and relevant legislation.
• Strong communication skills with sponsors, clients, officers and the public.

Required skills

• CSCS Health and Safety Card (or CITB HS&E Operatives/Managers test).
• Full driving licence.
• Ability to drive 4x4s and transit vans.

What we offer

• Starting salary £41,075‑£43,792 per year, above CIfA minimum.
• Defined pension scheme and life assurance.
• 31 days annual leave (including bank holidays) increasing with service.
• Lieu and overtime scheme up to 10 additional days per year.
• Good quality accommodation and subsistence payments for away projects.
• Paid CIfA membership subscription and personal protective equipment.