Finds Specialist/ Senior Finds Specialist (Roman Pottery)

Application Deadline: 14 September 2026

Department: PX - Finds

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Cleckheaton

Compensation: £32,488 - £39,290 / year

Description

• Unique knowledge and expertise. For the past 30 years, Headland has provided not only business-focused archaeology but also people-focused business. We are highly respected within our industry for our achievements in innovation, tailor-made development coaching and training, and our expertise in commercial archaeology.
• Strong pioneering spirit. Our corporate culture is characterised by a healthy appetite for originality and development.
• Stable company with excellent growth. Over the years, we have demonstrated steady, positive economic development and formed successful partnerships.
• Good work environment. You will be surrounded by colleagues who are pleasant, professional, and enthusiastic about their work.
• Opportunity to influence. You get to work in an open climate, close to decision makers and with the possibility of making a difference.
• Part of RSK group. You will have further opportunities to become involved in nationally and internationally prominent projects with exciting prospects for career development. The group has c.17000 employees and c.230 environmentally lead companies.

The Role

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Undergraduate degree in archaeology or related discipline and/or relevant fieldwork experience
• Good general working knowledge of the archaeology (all periods, materials and techniques) of the British Isles
• Good research skills and familiarity with sources of archaeological and artefact information throughout the British Isles
• Detailed understanding of general Roman archaeology, history and material culture
• Detailed understanding and demonstrable specialist knowledge of Roman pottery studies
• Keen attention to detail and ability to accurately observe and record
• Ability to communicate and present artefactual and archaeological data and ideas effectively and appropriately and a clear concise writing style in English
• Proven track record in reporting Roman pottery at grey lit and publication level
• Understanding of techniques and equipment applicable to archaeological investigations and to artefactual studies
• Knowledge of legislation, regulation and guidance relevant to archaeology including Health and Safety and adherence to safe working practices, in particular to hazards associated with artefactual work
• Good IT skills, including databases and MS Office
• Ability to manage time and other resources to meet objectives and deadlines
• Good coaching skills and a willingness to train others
• Ability to work under pressure, to work independently and within a wider team
• Be passionate, motivated and excited about what you do!

• Understanding of related or other areas of artefact studies (eg. Iron Age pottery, Roman CBM)
• Full clean driving licence (and a willingness to drive company vehicles)
• Membership of the CIfA at least at Associate level
• Membership of relevant finds groups and bodies (eg SGRP, PCRG, CIfA Finds Group)

• Expert understanding and demonstrable specialist knowledge of Roman pottery studies
• Meticulous attention to detail and ability to accurately observe and record
• Good editing skills.
• At least 4 years specialist experience and proven track record in reporting Roman pottery at grey lit and publication level
• Detailed understanding of techniques and equipment applicable to archaeological investigations and to artefactual studies
• Thorough knowledge of legislation, regulation and guidance relevant to archaeology including Health and Safety and adherence to safe working practices, in particular to hazards associated with artefactual work
• Advanced abilities in data manipulation
• Ability to manage project time, staff and other resources and be responsible for project budgets, deadlines and other objectives
• Strong organisational skills and ability to schedule and co-ordinate work for other team members, monitor performance and provide feedback
• Ability to thrive under pressure, to work independently and within a wider team

• Post-graduate degree in archaeology or related subject in relevant specialist area
• Detailed understanding of related or other areas of artefact studies (eg. Iron Age pottery, Roman CBM)
• Full clean driving licence (and a willingness to drive company vehicles)
• Membership of the CIfA at Member level
• Membership of relevant finds groups and bodies (eg SGRP, PCRG, CIfA Finds Group)

Benefits

• Competitive paid subsistence when applicable
• Paid accommodation when working away
• Employee Assistance Programme (advice on finance, mental health etc)
• Use of cutting edge technology on site, e.g. paperless systems, iPads etc.
• Ongoing regular training in various areas e.g. Health & Safety, Technical areas and transferable skills
• Time off in lieu of time worked above standard hours or overtime paid
• Annual profit discretionary bonus & performance-related bonus schemes, T&Cs apply
• Annual pay review
• Monthly clothing allowance
• 30 days annual leave, rising based on service length
• Extra annual leave purchase scheme
• 5%-6% employer contribution to pension scheme
• Income Protection Policy, after a year with Headland
• Life Assurance Policy, insuring you 4 times your annual salary, after a year with Headland
• Regular performance, wellbeing & professional development check-ins
• Referral scheme with generous fee
• A support group of 30+ Mental Health First Aiders
• Regular offers through RSK Group (e.g. Tastecard, Gym membership discount, Holidays and Entertainment)
• Paid CIfA membership
• Cycle to work scheme