We are seeking a professional, motivated and versatile archaeologist to join our multidisciplinary heritage team working across the full spectrum of modern archaeological practice including planning, community and public engagement, dissemination and hands-on fieldwork.
You will have several years of experience working in commercial and/or public archaeology and be comfortable working alone or in small groups in semi remote areas, providing a wide spectrum of professional advice and support to our clients and other archaeological practitioners working within the New Forest National Park area.
The New Forest National Park Authority’s Archaeology Team provides archaeological advice and guidance to the Authority’s planning officers and those of New Forest District Council (NFDC). We also support other specialists at the Authority and other key partners, provide archaeological advice to Forestry England’s Southern District, and are the Archaeologists for the New Forest Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) Scheme. Alongside these and our statutory functions we also support and work with local history and archaeology groups, volunteers, landowners, land managers and stakeholders.
You will assist in the delivery of our and NFDC’s statutory planning related work, ensuring heritage assets are protected and managed within the framework of local and national development policies. Your expertise will help developers meet their obligations and ensure that archaeology is conducted to the highest standards while championing the preservation of our shared history.
You will assist in the delivery of Service Level Agreements with Forestry England across its entire Southern District and the HLS Scheme within the New Forest, conducting desk-based heritage assessments, walkover survey and report writing and providing written and verbal advice and guidance ahead of forestry and HLS operations, based at our office in Lymington but spending significant time within and outside the boundary of the National Park.
Beyond the desk, there are opportunities to work with, support and develop community archaeology initiatives. We believe the past belongs to everyone and you will be part of the heritage team designing and delivering outreach programmes, dissemination, workshops, and volunteer activities/fieldwork. This can include working some weekends and bank holidays. Your ability to communicate complex historical narratives, in a range of media, to diverse audiences with passion and clarity is essential.
When it’s time to get into the field, you will be able to monitor, conduct, supervise and execute a range of fieldwork tasks. From initial surveys through to full-scale excavations, you will ensure high standards of professionalism, recording, analysis, and reporting.
This role is a six month fixed term contract and we are open to full-time at 37 hours per week or part time.
Key responsibilities
As a heritage team:
- Provide archaeological advice within the planning and development sector.
- Monitor, conduct and in some cases lead onsite fieldwork, including excavations, watching briefs, and surveys.
- Prepare high-quality reports, heritage documents and other media outputs.
- Develop, support and in some cases lead inclusive community heritage initiatives, projects and public events.
- Other activities as the need arises.
Requirements
- A degree in archaeology (or a related field) and/or proven experience in UK commercial archaeology.
- Have a good knowledge of British Archaeology, a working understanding of the planning process and good understanding of current legislation and guidance on archaeology.
- An ability to rapidly assimilate and distil large amounts of information into concise responses and a methodical approach to problem solving and record keeping.
- An awareness of the wider issues impacting the historic environment sector and willingness to contribute to ongoing developments and debates.
- Is pro-active and shows initiative to develop new ideas.
- Can manage workload effectively to meet strict deadlines while being a part of a dynamic and busy team.
- Excellent IT skills and be confident at using Microsoft Office and GIS applications.
- Full UK driving licence and own transport.
- Strong fieldwork skills and have expertise in field archaeology to at least senior supervisor level.
- Exceptional communication skills, confident engaging with various audiences (sometimes with conflicting opinions) and a passion for public engagement.
- Accredited CIfA membership or willingness to gain accredited membership.
Closing date
Tuesday 26 May 2026.