Overview
Locations: Based in Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire or Boxworth, Cambridgeshire although travel nationwide will be required
Contract Type: Permanent (with 6 month probationary period)
Closing Date: 3rd July 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and we may fill existing vacancies before the closing date, so you are advised to submit your application as early as possible.
Contract Type: Permanent (with 6 month probationary period)
Closing Date: 3rd July 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and we may fill existing vacancies before the closing date, so you are advised to submit your application as early as possible.
Following the creation of a new Geophysics and Exploration section, Headland is expanding its geophysical survey team and recruiting experienced staff to meet its increasing project portfolio.
Do you ever wonder how archaeological sites are located and identified in the first place? Do you want to be at the forefront of the development of geophysical survey techniques in the commercial field? Do you want to join a large team with a range of experience working on nationally important and interesting projects throughout the United Kingdom and the EU?
Why Should You Apply?
We are a privately owned archaeological business, part of the RSK Group, a leader in integrated environmental, engineering, and technical services. We provide heritage services to the development and construction sectors in UK and across the world. With four offices in England and one in Scotland, we offer our employees:
We are a privately owned archaeological business, part of the RSK Group, a leader in integrated environmental, engineering, and technical services. We provide heritage services to the development and construction sectors in UK and across the world. With four offices in England and one in Scotland, we offer our employees:
- Unique knowledge and expertise. For the past 30 years, Headland has provided not only business-focused archaeology but also people-focused business. We are highly respected within our industry for our achievements in innovation, tailor-made development coaching and training, and our expertise in commercial archaeology.
- Strong pioneering spirit. Our corporate culture is characterised by a healthy appetite for originality and development.
- Stable company with excellent growth. Over the years, we have demonstrated steady, positive economic development and formed successful partnerships.
- Good work environment. You will be surrounded by colleagues who are pleasant, professional, and enthusiastic about their work.
- Opportunity to influence. You get to work in an open climate, close to decision makers and with the possibility of making a difference.
- Part of RSK group. You will have further opportunities to become involved in nationally and internationally prominent projects with exciting prospects for career development. The group has c.17000 employees and c.230 environmentally lead companies.
About Headland Archaeology
We combine an in-depth understanding of archaeology with practical experience of major construction projects to keep you ahead of the game. Our proactive, friendly approach leaves no stone unturned when it comes to accurate estimating, minimised risk and effective national resourcing.
From fast-track rail projects and wind farm construction through to housing developments and off-shore cable-laying, we deliver against your critical path and your heritage responsibilities.
We were founded in 1996 and now cover the whole of the UK from four regional offices located in Silsoe, Hereford, Cleckheaton and Edinburgh. Many of our contracts are valued at £1m-£5m and we regularly act as Principal Contractor.
We are a Registered Organisation of the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists. More importantly, though we study the past, we are a forward-looking and innovative business, keen to help our clients stay ahead of the game.
The Role
We are looking for candidates who are self-driven with a positive outlook and excellent understanding of archaeological geophysics and British archaeology. The Geophysicist role involves working as part of a team on all projects collecting geophysical survey data. More specifically you are required to understand and support the geophysics team to deliver the project designs, briefs, and specifications, making sure the projects are completed within resource allocations and timescales.
As part of the geophysical survey team you will get involved in several large and exciting projects across the UK and EU. We have many large-scale infrastructure projects throughout 2026, which include landscape wide 1000+ha sites and linear schemes. Working away and travelling in new places is a normal part of this role.
In Headland we are proud of our people. We will support you to your meet your goals and train you in specific archaeological and other skills to feel confident and succeed in your role.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Essential Key Skills
- Operate geophysical survey equipment with regular instruction and guidance from team members
- Basic understanding of the principles of archaeological geophysics and surveying (or willingness to learn this)
- Proficient in use and understanding of MS Office suite
- A relevant degree, or proven experience
- Full, valid driving licence
- A willingness to travel, work on projects across the UK and when required stay on site and/or occasionally work weekends on geographically distant projects
- Ability to read, understand and act in accordance with site RAMS
- Good written and oral communication skills
Desirable Skills
- Some prior geophysics experience advantageous
- Membership of the CIfA
- An ability to carry out prolonged manual work in an outdoor environment
- Ability to work under pressure and use your own initiative
- SHEQ Accreditations (First aid, Asbestos Awareness, Lantra Sit Astride)
Benefits
- Being part of RSK Group, a well-established global leader in the delivery of environmental and engineering solutions.
- Competitive paid subsistence when applicable
- Employee assistance and health support scheme
- Paid accommodation when working away
- Paid H&S Training where applicable
- Use of cutting-edge technology on site, e.g. paperless systems, iPads, cart/drone-based Magnetometers etc.
- Ongoing regular training in various areas e.g. Health & Safety, Technical areas and transferable skills
- Time off in lieu of time worked above standard hours or overtime paid
- Annual profit discretionary bonus & performance-related bonus schemes, T&Cs apply
- Annual pay review
- Monthly clothing allowance
- 30 days annual leave, rising based on service length
- Extra annual leave purchase scheme
- 5%-6% employer contribution to pension scheme
- Income Protection Policy, after a year with Headland
- Life Assurance Policy, insuring you 4 times your annual salary, after a year with Headland
- Regular performance, wellbeing & professional development check-ins
- Referral scheme with generous fee
- A support group of 30+ Mental Health First Aiders
- Regular offers through RSK Group (e.g. Tastecard, Gym membership discount, Holidays and Entertainment)
- Employee Assistance Programme (advice on finance, mental health etc)
- Paid CIfA membership
- Cycle to work scheme
How to apply
You must have the right to work in the UK without restrictions. Proof of eligibility will be required prior to your commencement.
Send CV and covering letter to jobs@headlandarchaeology.com quoting reference LGEO0426 Postal applications will not be accepted. For queries regarding the role, email jobs@headlandarchaeology.com.
Headland is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Headland Archaeology is committed to creating an inclusive recruitment process. If you have a disability or need any adjustments to enable you to take part in the interview, please contact us at hr@headlandarchaeolgy.com so we can make suitable arrangements.
Ready to join the team?
We read every application and reply within five working days.
What you'll need
- Your CV (PDF or Word)
- Optional cover letter
- About 5–10 minutes
Your progress is saved automatically.