Careers and Opportunities
Why Past To Present Archaeology?
Trainee Archaeologist
Keen to start your career in archaeology?
Our trainee programme is designed for those looking to take their first steps into the profession. Whether you’re a recent graduate or changing career paths, we offer a supportive, hands-on training route that builds the skills and confidence needed to become a professional archaeologist.
You’ll gain practical experience on real sites under the guidance of experienced staff, with a clear pathway for progression. Trainees who successfully complete the scheme—and show the drive, potential and commitment to grow with us—will be offered fixed-term or permanent positions at Project Archaeologist level.
Project Archaeologist
Ready to take your archaeological experience to the next level?
Joining Past to Present Archaeology as a Project Archaeologist offers the chance to work across a broad range of fieldwork and research-driven projects, both commercial and community-led. You’ll be part of a small, experienced, and supportive team that values collaboration, professional development, and meaningful work.
Your role will involve hands-on archaeological fieldwork—including evaluation and excavation—alongside opportunities to contribute to post-excavation tasks such as digitising site records, processing finds, and engaging with the public at outreach and community events.
This is an ideal role for archaeologists looking to deepen their skills, take on more responsibility, and be part of a company that genuinely values its people.
Senior Archaeologist
Looking to take the next step in your archaeological career?
Our Senior Archaeologist role is designed for experienced professionals ready to progress into leadership and specialist positions—whether that’s advancing into a Project Supervisor or Officer role, or moving toward a more research-focused pathway such as Community Archaeologist.
As a Senior Archaeologist at Past to Present, you’ll take an active role in mentoring and supporting junior staff, helping to shape the next generation of field archaeologists. You’ll also have the chance to broaden your skillset through involvement in our community programmes, including leading training courses and international field schools.
This is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to grow, guide, and make a real impact across both commercial and public-facing archaeology.
What We Cover
We recognise the demands of archaeological fieldwork, especially when working away from home. That’s why we provide the following support to all staff:
- Overnight Accommodation – Provided for all away-based projects.
- Paid Subsistence – A daily allowance to support meal costs while working on commercial excavations.
- Mileage Reimbursement – £0.40 per mile for use of your own vehicle on company business.
We understand that our staff are our greatest asset, and we aim to ensure you’re properly supported wherever the job takes you
Employee Benefits
At Past to Present Archaeology, we value our team and strive to support each staff member’s development, wellbeing, and career progression. While we’re a small company, we’re committed to providing meaningful benefits that reflect our ethos and priorities:
- Pension Contributions – 4% employer contribution to help you plan for the future.
- 28 Days Annual Leave – Generous holiday allowance to support work-life balance.
- Fully Funded CIfA Membership – We cover 100% of your annual CIfA membership after your probation period, helping you grow and maintain your professional credentials.
- Opportunities for International Fieldwork – For those keen to broaden their horizons, we regularly run projects abroad.
- Supportive, Close-Knit Team Culture – Work alongside a friendly, dedicated team who genuinely care about archaeology and each other.
- Training and Career Progression – Tailored support to help you progress, whether you’re just starting out or looking to move up.
Our Vision
At Past to Present Archaeology, we believe archaeology should serve both knowledge and community. Our work is guided by a commitment to:
- Advancing Archaeological Research – Contributing meaningful insights through research-led excavation and analysis.
- Delivering High-Quality Commercial Archaeology – Upholding robust standards to support the planning process and preserve the archaeological record.
- Creating Opportunities for Fieldwork and Discovery – Developing excavation and research projects that provide real opportunities for learning, training, and professional growth.
- Contributing to the European Heritage Sector – Sharing the results of our research to benefit heritage understanding at local, national, and international levels.
- Expanding Public Access and Awareness – Opening archaeology to wider audiences through inclusive outreach and participation.
- Building Strong Local Partnerships – Working collaboratively with local communities, respecting their ties to the past and empowering them to be part of the research process.
- Promoting Community-Led Research – Encouraging and supporting initiatives where communities help shape and drive archaeological investigation.
Our Values
At Past to Present Archaeology, our work is grounded in a shared set of values that guide everything we do — from our fieldwork to our team culture:
- High Standards, Every Time – We are committed to delivering reliable, high-quality archaeological services that meet both commercial and academic needs.
- Teamwork and Support – We are a close-knit, collaborative team who look out for each other and value a friendly, respectful working environment.
- Integrity and Respect – We work openly, honestly and with integrity — with clients, collaborators, the public, and one another.
- Clear and Transparent Communication – We prioritise strong communication to ensure projects run smoothly and staff feel informed, supported and heard.
- Creativity and Innovation – We embrace new ideas, new technologies, and fresh ways of thinking to improve how we investigate the past.
- Development and Opportunity – We’re dedicated to supporting the career progression and wellbeing of our team, offering real opportunities to work on meaningful projects in the UK and abroad.