3 Month Contract With A Local Authority
Job Purpose
* To provide expert archaeological advice and support within the planning process, ensuring that the historic environment is appropriately considered and protected in line with national legislation, local policies, and planning guidance. The Planning Archaeologist plays a key role in assessing development proposals for their archaeological impact, advising planning officers, developers, and consultants, and ensuring appropriate mitigation strategies are implemented.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
* Assess planning applications and development proposals to determine potential archaeological impacts, advising on requirements for desk-based assessments, evaluations, or fieldwork as appropriate.
* Prepare and deliver formal consultation responses on planning applications, pre-application enquiries, and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) in relation to archaeology and the historic environment.
* Provide expert advice to planning officers, developers, and other stakeholders, ensuring archaeological conditions or obligations are appropriately drafted and enforced.
* Monitor compliance with planning conditions related to archaeological work, including reviewing Written Schemes of Investigation (WSIs), watching briefs, and post-excavation assessments.
* Liaise with archaeological contractors and consultants, ensuring that investigation, recording, and reporting are carried out to accepted professional standards.
* Contribute to the preparation and review of local planning policies, conservation strategies, and supplementary planning documents relating to the historic environment.
* Maintain and update records of archaeological advice, fieldwork results, and local heritage data in GIS or HER (Historic Environment Record) systems.
* Provide specialist support and training to internal colleagues and elected members on archaeological and heritage planning matters.
* Engage with the public and local communities, promoting understanding and appreciation of the area's archaeological heritage.
* Stay up to date with relevant legislation, planning policy, and best practice guidance, including the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and CIfA standards.
Essential Experience And Skills
* Degree in Archaeology or a closely related subject (postgraduate qualification desirable)
* Proven experience of providing archaeological advice within a planning or development control context
* Strong knowledge of UK planning legislation and policy relevant to the historic environment (e.g. NPPF, PPS5
* successor guidance)
* Experience in assessing the significance and impact of development on archaeological sites
* Familiarity with professional standards and practices in field archaeology and mitigation strategies
* Experience using HERs, GIS systems, and archaeological databases
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills for drafting reports and advising stakeholders
* Ability to work independently, manage caseloads, and meet tight deadlines
* Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g. CIfA) or eligibility to apply
Additional Information To Note
* Working Hours: 37 Per Week
* Full UK Driving License Is Required