Oxford Archaeology is one of the largest independent archaeological practices in Europe. Our size and reputation ensure that we work on the most exciting and varied range of projects and can offer real opportunities for long term employment and career development.
The position:
An opportunity has arisen for an experienced, enthusiastic, talented, and highly motivated palynologist to work within our environmental archaeology team to work on a diverse and exciting portfolio of projects from a range of single and multi-period sites across the UK. Projects will encompass late Mesolithic to Bronze Age activity next to Poulton-le-Fylde near Blackpool, landscape development and Roman activity in the Mendip Hills as well as sites from Yorkshire, North Wales and southern England. You will be working within a project focussed team of specialists from a range of disciplines, committed to promoting a holistic and integrated approach to archaeological, palaeoenvironmental and landscape investigation in collaboration with our clients.
The role is office-based but there are significant opportunities for hybrid working and flexible or part-time hours for the right candidate. There is likely to be a requirement to make occasional site visits and to supervise coring activities. There will also be a requirement for mentoring/coaching of more junior staff, providing feedback as and when required to aid their development.
OA is committed to inclusivity and collaboration, working cross-sector with both commercial and academic partners, and has a reputation for quality, innovation, and digital enterprise.
Position requirements:
Essential
- A post graduate qualification in palynology or related archaeological, environmental or earth science discipline
- Experience of working in British archaeology
- Practical experience of taking specialist samples for palynology by coring or other appropriate technique
- Practical experience of palynological logging, assessment, analysis and reporting including the use of appropriate software
- Knowledge and understanding of the application of environmental and geoarchaeological strategies to site prospection and excavation along with relevant industry guidance
- Significant evidence of participation in academic or commercially based research through published papers and/or submitted reports
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, ideally in a commercial environment
- Demonstrable IT aptitude
- Proficient and demonstrable report writing skills
- Excellent time management and problem-solving skills. The ability to take responsibility and successfully work to project deadlines and budgets.
Desirable
- Practical experience of archaeological fieldwork within a UK setting
- Ability to identify non-pollen palynmorphs (eg fungal and algal spores)
- Ability to identify and report on other microfossils (eg diatoms, ostracods, foraminifera, phytoliths) or plant macrofossils
- A full, clean driving licence
- A current CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) card.
Applicants should be members, or eligible for membership, of the CIfA at the appropriate level. In return, we offer an exciting range of employee benefits.
Employee benefits:
- Competitive salary range £28,795 to £34,151: appointments will be made on the basis of demonstrated ability, previous experience and CIfA membership if appropriate.
- Annual leave of 35 days (including statutory holidays and concessionary days at Christmas).
- Pension scheme.
- Training and opportunities for career progression.
- 100% of CIfA subscription fees.
- High quality personal protective equipment (inc. breathable waterproofs, fleeces etc) for fieldwork.
- Subsistence payment (£20/night) and free accommodation (B and B / self -catering) provided for away-based projects. No sharing – single rooms only.
- Cycle to work scheme.
*Subject to completion of a six-month probationary period
For further information about the role, please contact Rebecca Nicholson (Head of Environmental Archaeology) at (rebecca.nicholson@oxfordarchaeology.com)
Please apply by completing an on-line application form:
https://oxfordarchaeology.com/jobapplication
Please submit a CV and covering letter with your application.
Closing Date: Tuesday 3rd January 2023.
Oxford Archaeology is an Equal Opportunities employer. All applications are judged on the relevant skills and experience of the candidate, and not by gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, belief, age, nationality (other than where work permits may be required), or ethnicity. You must meet the requirements to live and work in the UK by UK Visas and Immigration.
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