About the Role
Oxford Archaeology is one of the largest independent archaeological practices in Europe. We have offices in Cambridge, Lancaster, and Oxford and are a registered heritage charity. We offer a full‑time paid training programme for enthusiastic graduate archaeologists to gain commercial fieldwork experience.
Our Cambridge office runs a busy programme of fieldwork across southern England and the East Midlands, covering large Iron Age and Roman settlements, evaluations, and prehistoric to medieval remains. Our Oxford office runs local and away‑based projects, including Roman and Iron Age settlements, a large Mesolithic flint excavation, and several projects within the City of Oxford.
Fieldwork Graduate Trainee Pathway
You will be trained in all aspects of a field archaeologist role, from excavation techniques to recording features and finds, under the supervision of an experienced mentor. You will mainly work on open‑area excavations across all periods throughout England. For sites away from home, 7‑day accommodation may be provided.
The programme lasts 6 months and is split into two 12‑week modules. The initial 12‑week contract starts with an annual salary of £27,640. After 12 weeks, upon achieving the required scores, you will receive a pay rise to £28,320.
Who is the Pathway for?
Graduates with a degree in archaeology or a related discipline, who have limited fieldwork experience. A clean driving licence and proximity to an Oxford Archaeology office (or willingness to relocate) are expected.
Core Learning Goals
* Health and safety, including manual handling
* Recognition and understanding of context
* Safe use of hand excavation tools
* OA recording systems (including our Digital Recording System and Webmap)
* Producing accurate drawings
* Basic survey methods
* Artefact recognition
* Environmental sampling
* Site photography
What happens after the Pathway?
Trainees who successfully complete the programme will be offered a full‑time permanent contract as a Fieldwork Archaeologist, subject to availability of work. They will also have earned the experience required to obtain PCIfA accreditation with CIfA.
Benefits
Competitive salary (£27,640, rising to £28,320). A company pension scheme with 6% employer contributions, with access to the Local Government Pension Scheme after 10 years or in project management roles. 21 days annual holiday allowance (adjusted to 50% for the 6‑month programme), additional leave for bank holidays, and an office shutdown over Christmas adding 3 days. Subsistence payment of £23.50 per night (tax‑free) and free single‑room accommodation for away‑based projects. 37.5‑hour basic week with optional overtime and double time on Sundays and bank holidays. Paid travel time for journeys over one hour from the office and free transport from regional offices to sites. Free high‑quality personal protective equipment. Comprehensive employee welfare policies including AXA Health Employee Assistance Programme, paid sick leave, and a network of mental‑health first aiders. 100% coverage of CIfA subscription fees. Cycle to work scheme.
Closing Date
Friday 31st July 2026
Equal Opportunities
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, or ethnicity. You must meet the requirements to live and work in the UK, as set out by UK Visa and Immigration.
Registered Charity and Company Registration Numbers
Registered Charity No. 285627; Company Registration No. 1618597
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