Trainee Archaeologists

Cotswold Archaeology is one of the largest and most respected archaeological practices in the country employing over 350 professional staff and carrying out some of the most interesting complex and largest archaeological and heritage projects across England and Wales.

Like many of those that join our award-winning trainee archaeologist program you might be a recent graduate with a degree or masters in a relevant subject; you may have graduated some time ago but never realised your ambitions to enter the profession; or you may have no formal archaeology related qualifications but your passion interest and relevant interest in Commercial Archaeology in the subject is attracting you to developing a career in the sector. Whatever your background skills experience qualifications and ambitions we would love to hear from you.

Our trainee programme has been developed with the flexibility to respond to a wide variety of individuals education and work experience. The training includes all the core skills required to be effective as an Archaeologist including excavation drawing photography and sampling.

Cotswold Archaeology has projects located in the vicinity of our offices. There will also be a requirement to be rostered on 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 spent away).

Please note all salaries quoted are annual equivalents based on a 37.5-hour week. We are unable to offer contracts based solely on the provision of 7 days a week accommodated away work being available.

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.

Main duties and responsibilities:

• Assist in the successful and safe conduct of fieldwork projects in accordance with CA procedures and industry standards
  
• Contribute to the compilation of archaeological site records using data recording system (DRS) pro-forma recording sheets and registers in accordance with CA procedures.
  
• Assist with artefact and environmental sample processing as required.
• Carry out manual excavation of features with a wide variety of tools.
  
• Demonstrate a broad knowledge of archaeological periods and practice.
• Work towards own development using trainee log.
• The ability to deal courteously with fellow staff clients of CA officers of other bodies and members of the public.
• Carry out other duties as deemed appropriate

Personal specification

Essential

• Broad knowledge of archaeological periods monuments and practice gained from a degree equivalent qualification or relevant experience.
  
• Capable of carrying out physically demanding outdoor work in a wide variety of weather conditions including undertaking manual excavation tasks using hand tools.
  
• Ability and willingness to undertake away work including extended away work when required.
  
• The willingness enthusiasm and drive to learn about all aspects of professional archaeological practice and to develop new skills.
  
• Good attention to detail.
  
• Ability to work to deadlines.
  
• Administrative ability in the keeping of records.
  
• The ability to deal courteously with fellow staff clients of CA officers of other bodies and members of the public.

Desirable

• Full manual driving licence and willingness to drive company vehicles (4x4s Transit vans)
• Experience of and confidence in driving 4x4 vehicles vans people carrier and crew cab transit van.
• Survey skills including ability to operate Leica GPS/TST.

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.
• Employer contribution to pension scheme
• Life assurance scheme
• Paid CIfA membership subscription (following qualifying period)
• Company sick pay prorated for length 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 (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 organization.
• Personal protective equipment

Closing date: Applications need to be submitted by 5pm on Friday 26th September 2025. It is the intention that interviews will be held via Teams w/c 29th however should we be inundated with applications we may need to review applications and hold interviews sooner.

CA is an inclusive employer and will take into consideration any adjustments needed to support you. If you should require any additional support related to neurodiversity or any other reason. Please do let us know by contacting