Resident Archaeologist

Role overview

This opportunity sits within a large Cultural Heritage and Archaeology practice that advises on archaeology, built heritage, setting, and design across the full life of projects in the UK and Ireland. The team supports major infrastructure and heritage-led work, collaborating with multidisciplinary specialists to deliver high-quality outcomes and practical solutions for managing change in historic environments.

The Resident Archaeologist will be stationed in designated MetroLink offices and will also attend site works across the Dublin area, including occasional weekend and night shifts. The role requires a five-day working week.

Key responsibilities

• Back the TII-appointed Project Archaeologist on light rail assignments in carrying out their duties.
• Provide on-site oversight, coordination, and record management for light rail works, including MetroLink.
• Examine draft method statements, progress updates, excavation documentation, architectural heritage reports, cultural heritage reports, and similar materials.
• Assess CVs of proposed consultant or contractor staff changes and confirm they meet archaeological requirements.
• Maintain a detailed diary capturing archaeological work history and notable incidents or events during site works and post-excavation.
• Ensure comprehensive hard-copy and digital records, including photographs, are maintained and available for inspection by authorised personnel.
• Check that day-work records and any deviations from specification are authorised and documented before work proceeds.
• Track information on delays, industrial disputes, adverse ground or physical conditions, and issues involving subcontractors or landowners.
• Attend regular site meetings with relevant supervisory staff and ensure accurate minutes are prepared and circulated.
• Keep other site supervisors informed about issues that could affect their work.
• Support the administration of archaeological services contracts.

Candidate profile

The successful applicant must be a qualified archaeologist with substantial relevant experience. The role calls for strong practical knowledge of excavation, post-excavation, licence applications, heritage assessments, and Irish archaeology and legislation, particularly in the context of Transport Infrastructure Ireland projects.

Qualifications and experience

• A third-level qualification in Archaeology at Level 8 (NFQ) plus 10 years of relevant post-graduate experience, or a Level 9 (NFQ) qualification plus 5 years of relevant post-graduate experience.
• Senior-level experience on an Archaeological Code of Practice project agreed with the Department, such as Site Director, Senior Archaeologist, Contractor’s Consultant Archaeologist, or Project Archaeologist.
• Evidence of having carried out the duties of a Project Archaeologist under an agreed Code of Practice, or equivalent responsibility on another project.
• Proven ability to manage archaeological excavation and post-excavation work on large-scale developments.
• Knowledge of typical archaeology encountered in both urban and rural Irish settings.
• Experience preparing archaeological licence applications and supporting method statements for complex projects.
• Experience completing archaeological heritage impact assessments.
• Strong understanding of relevant archaeology and heritage legislation and how it affects archaeology management on TII projects.
• A full driving licence that is current and maintained.
• Access to a vehicle for site inspections and visits.

About the employer

The organisation is a global engineering and professional services business with more than 72,800 people. It focuses on creating positive, lasting impact through innovation, integrity, and inclusion, with over 9,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland.

What the role offers

• Flexible working arrangements, including the option to work from home two days per week in the wider hybrid policy.
• Support for inclusion and belonging through employee resource groups and an open, respectful culture.
• Health and wellbeing support through the Thrive programme, virtual GP access, reasonable workplace adjustments, Gymflex discounts of up to 40% on annual gym memberships, and menopause support.
• Personal time flexibility through “WSP My Hour,” which allows one hour each day for personal activities with the option to make up the time earlier or later.
• Part-time and flexible working options, the ability to purchase extra leave, and the option to use bank holiday entitlement flexibly.
• Learning and growth opportunities through training, mentoring, and support toward Chartership.

Equality and adjustments

Applications are encouraged from suitably qualified candidates from all backgrounds, regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy or maternity/paternity status. Disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria will be interviewed, and workplace adjustments can be requested during the application process.

Working pattern and location notes

The role is based in Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland, with attendance required at site works in the Dublin region. Weekend and night work may occasionally be necessary, and the position follows a five-day work week.