Experienced Archaeologist – Milton Keynes

About the role

Cotswold Archaeology is seeking an Experienced Archaeologist for its Milton Keynes office to undertake field investigations on a range of archaeological projects. The role is full‑time on a six‑month fixed‑term contract with an immediate start.

Key responsibilities

• Contribute to successful completion of fieldwork projects including fieldwalking, evaluation, excavation, finds processing, data entry and archiving.
• Accurately record investigation data using pro‑formae, scale drawings and photographs.
• Recover artefacts and environmental samples in line with company procedures.
• Undertake machine supervision, watching brief and survey duties as delegated.
• Assist the Project Leader with mentoring and training of less experienced staff.
• Perform rapid manual excavation and interpret investigation data.
• Complete stratigraphic matrices of moderate complexity.
• Use Leica GPS equipment for survey work.

Required profile

• Knowledge and understanding of archaeological practice.
• Demonstrable competence and varied commercial experience in field archaeology.
• Proven ability to undertake rapid manual excavation and accurate recording.
• Ability to complete stratigraphic matrices of moderate complexity.
• Survey training with demonstrable ability to use Leica GPS equipment.
• Experience supervising machine excavation.
• Full manual driving licence and confidence driving 4x4 vehicles, vans and minibuses.
• Willingness to undertake away work, including extended periods.
• Ability to carry out delegated administrative tasks efficiently.

Required skills

• Leica GPS equipment operation
• Machine supervision of excavation
• Use of CAT and Genny equipment
• Stratigraphic matrix preparation
• 4x4 vehicle operation

What we offer

• Starting salary £29,844 (above CIfA minimum)
• 30 days annual leave (prorated for contract duration)
• Defined contribution pension scheme
• Life insurance scheme
• Paid CIfA membership subscription after qualifying period
• Company sick pay (prorated)
• Generous lieu scheme for travel time
• Overnight accommodation and subsistence for away projects (£24 per night)
• Employee Assistance Program and mental health first aiders
• Personal protective equipment