Senior Field Archaeologist Jobs Cambridge

About the Position

The Cambridge Archaeological Unit (CAU), part of the University of Cambridge, Department of Archaeology, is seeking applications for Senior Field Archaeologist (Grade I & II) positions on fixed-term 12-month contracts. These posts will support a series of important archaeological projects across East Anglia, including prehistoric landscapes, Iron Age and Roman settlements, and urban excavations. With fieldwork scheduled from Summer 2025 to Spring 2026, this role offers the chance to contribute to nationally significant research while working within a professional and dynamic team. The CAU provides an excellent environment for archaeologists to enhance their field expertise, collaborate on major excavations, and contribute to the department’s research mission. Candidates are encouraged to apply early as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Position/Job Details

Position: Senior Field Archaeologist (Grade I & II)
Institution: University of Cambridge
Department: Department of Archaeology – Cambridge Archaeological Unit (CAU)
Research Field: Archaeological Excavation & Fieldwork
Location: Cambridge, UK (sites across East Anglia)
Number of Posts: 10 (5 Grade I, 5 Grade II)
Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-term (12 months)
Start Date (Anticipated): September 2025
Working Hours: 36.5 hours per week
Salary Range: Grade I – £25,965 p.a. | Grade II – £26,365 p.a.
Required Degree/Diploma: Archaeology

Research Area

Prehistoric Landscapes
Iron Age Settlements
Roman Archaeology
Urban Excavations
Environmental Archaeology
Artefact Studies

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Degree in Archaeology (or related with strong excavation experience)
Demonstrable experience in British developer-funded or research archaeology
Strong practical fieldwork skills, including excavation and survey methods
Ability to liaise professionally with colleagues, clients, and the public

Preferred Qualifications:

Membership of CIfA
Clean UK/EU Driving Licence
First Aid at Work qualification
Additional H&S training (e.g., Manual Handling, Banksman, Pipe & Cable detection, Lantra Off-Road Vehicle)
Experience supervising field teams, students, or volunteers

Key Responsibilities

Assist in delivering archaeological fieldwork to professional standards
Work within excavation, evaluation, and survey teams across multiple sites
Support site logistics, equipment organisation, and daily operations
Liaise with colleagues, clients, and external stakeholders professionally
Uphold CIfA best practice and health & safety standards
Contribute to recording, analysis, and reporting of archaeological data

Application Process

How to Apply:

Applications must be submitted via the University of Cambridge online recruitment system. Candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible since interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis and posts may be filled before the deadline.

Required Documents: