Resident Archaeologist, Dublin

Role overview

This position sits within a large cultural heritage and archaeology advisory team that supports major infrastructure and heritage projects across the UK and Ireland. The work spans archaeology, built heritage, setting, and design across all phases of project delivery, with a strong focus on managing change in the historic environment.

The Resident Archaeologist will be based in designated MetroLink offices and will also be expected to attend site works in the Dublin area. Site attendance may occasionally include night shifts and weekend work. The role follows a five-day working week.

Key responsibilities

• Assist the Project Archaeologist assigned by TII on light rail projects and support the delivery of their duties.
• Provide on-site oversight, coordination, and record management for light rail works, including MetroLink.
• Examine draft method statements, progress updates, excavation documentation, and heritage-related reports.
• Assess CVs for proposed consultant or contractor personnel changes and confirm compliance with archaeology requirements.
• Maintain a detailed diary covering archaeological activity, work history, and significant incidents or events during site works and post-excavation stages.
• Ensure that complete written and photographic records are created, retained, and made available for authorised inspection.
• Verify that day-work records and any changes from specification are approved and documented before work proceeds.
• Track delays, industrial disputes, adverse ground or physical conditions, and issues involving subcontractors or landowners.
• Attend regular site meetings with the relevant supervisory team and ensure minutes are prepared and circulated.
• Keep other site supervisors informed about matters that could affect their work.
• Support the administration of archaeological services contracts.

Candidate profile

• You must be a qualified archaeologist.
• A Level 8 third-level qualification in Archaeology plus 10 years of relevant post-graduate experience is required; candidates with a Level 9 qualification may be considered with 5 years of relevant post-graduate experience.
• Experience working at a senior level on a project under an Archaeological Code of Practice agreed with the Department is necessary, such as Site Director, Senior Archaeologist, Contractor’s Consultant Archaeologist, or Project Archaeologist.
• You should have already carried out the duties of a Project Archaeologist under a Code of Practice or be able to show equivalent experience on another project.
• Demonstrated ability to manage archaeological excavation and post-excavation work on large development projects is essential.
• You need familiarity with the types of archaeology typically found in both urban and rural Irish settings.
• Experience preparing archaeological licence applications and supporting method statements for complex projects is required.
• Background in archaeological heritage impact assessments is expected.
• You must have strong knowledge of relevant archaeology and heritage legislation, especially as it affects the management of archaeology on TII projects.
• A current full driving licence is required, along with access to a vehicle for site inspections and visits.

Working arrangements and additional information

The role requires five working days per week. Because of the nature of the projects, attendance at site works may occasionally be required during nights and weekends.

Benefits and workplace support

The employer highlights flexibility, wellbeing support, inclusive working practices, and development opportunities. Support may include hybrid-style flexibility in some locations, access to wellbeing resources, virtual GP services, reasonable workplace adjustments, discounted gym membership through a flexible benefits programme, menopause support, flexible leave options, and learning or mentoring opportunities.

There is also a work-life balance initiative that allows one hour each day for personal needs, with flexibility to adjust the time earlier or later in the day.

Equality and inclusion

Applications are welcomed from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy, or maternity/paternity status. Disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria are guaranteed an interview, and workplace adjustments can be requested if needed.

About the employer

The organisation is a global engineering and professional services firm with a large workforce across the UK and Ireland. Its focus is on delivering positive and lasting impact through innovation, integrity, and inclusion, while supporting local communities with international expertise.