Archives Technician 2025

Bringing together leading minds and practitioners in the sector, Wessex Archaeology is a trusted archaeology and heritage service provider and educational charity. From our network of international offices, we work in partnership with our clients to deliver sustainable solutions to manage the historic environment - above ground, below ground and underwater. We are committed to our social impact. This means using the knowledge and connections we make through our commercial activities as a catalyst to engage the communities in which we work.

Join us and you’ll be part of a collaborative team committed to shaping a better future for our staff, the sector, and the world. As well as having knowledgeable and dedicated colleagues, you’ll have an opportunity to access a variety of fascinating and high-profile projects and develop your skills and knowledge along the way.

The role 

This is a one-year full time fixed term contract to cover maternity leave. This role is perfect for someone who has an interest in archaeology and would like to pursue a career in archiving and data processing. You will have a great eye for detail and enjoy working as part of a supportive team, as well as independently. You will be involved in all aspects of physical and digital archive preparation and deposition. This will include scanning records, photo linking, metadata creation, collation and indexing of physical and digital archives as well as OASIS updates, database entry, transfer of title documentation, and handling artefacts in line with specific museum/digital data repository requirements. You will enjoy working on a wide variety of projects, and will collate data from every department to make it accessible for future reuse.

You will be IT proficient, organised, methodical and have good communication skills. The role is office based, but with some flexibility for home working once trained in aspects of digital archiving. A background in archaeology is desirable, though not essential.

Main responsibilities will include

• As an archivist your role will involve preparing and depositing archaeological data. Wessex Archaeology’s ability to provide a high-quality service for its client’s rests on the quality of the primary work you do, and the accuracy of the records you make.
• You will follow Wessex Archaeology’s standard archives methods and processes (as set out in the Archive Guidelines) and other appropriate instructions, under the direction of supervising staff, seeking their guidance and assistance where necessary.
• Archaeological remains are a finite resource, and you have a responsibility to ensure an accurate and appropriate record of the remains is ready for deposition with museums. This will form the permanent record essential for the preservation of archaeological information for the future, and upon which any interpretation of the archaeological resource is based.
• The decisions you make, and strategies you employ in your work require quality and care in practice and recording, to maximise the data recoverable from the archaeological resource. This work will be the basis for the public dissemination of the results of the fieldwork, including its publication in both academic and popular media.
• Wessex Archaeology is committed to creating a very high-quality product. This is achieved by the efficiency, reliability and excellence of the work you undertake as a member of the team. It is the responsibility of those more senior to help you understand the importance and value of the work you do. At the same time, it is your responsibility to improve, increase and share your skills and knowledge, seeking guidance and support whenever necessary.
• Communication is essential in your role. You must be respectful and mindful of your audiences and act appropriately.

About you

• Qualification in Archaeology or relevant discipline
• Membership of professional body e.g. CIfA
• Driving License

Benefits

Our focus is on creating a collaborative culture where people can thrive, develop and where safety and wellbeing come first. From anonymising candidate data in our recruitment process to continuous improvements in our benefits, we’re committed to creating a safe, fair, and inclusive working environment.

We offer

• 22 days of annual leave per year plus bank holidays rising to 27 after 5 years of continuous service.
• Option to buy up to 5 days holiday per year.
• Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme, Wessex Archaeology employer pension contribution 6.5%.
• Life assurance scheme of three times your basic salary.

Wellbeing and family-friendly benefits

• Our maternity, adoption and shared parental pay is 100% for 12 weeks, 90% for 21 weeks and 6 weeks statutory, day 1 eligibility.
• Enhanced paternity leave, up to 4 weeks from day 1.
• 5 days of carers leave.
• Paid sick leave from the start of a contract, with the number of days dependent on length of service.
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements where applicable.
• Company Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - free and confidential service in the form of counselling and assistance in areas such as health and stress.
• AIG SmartHealth – round-the-clock support for you and your family.

Sustainability and other benefits

• Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme.
• Bike2Work scheme.
• 100% Professional membership costs reimbursed.
• High-quality personal protective equipment (PPE) provided.
• Free transport from regional offices to sites.
• Time in lieu or paid time for drivers.
• Subsistence allowance.