Senior​/Principal Archaeologist

About SLR

SLR is a global leader in sustainability solutions, working with clients to help make sustainability happen within a collaborative, people‑first culture.

SLR are seeking Senior Archaeologists (Project Supervisors) and Principal Archaeologists (Project Officers) on a full‑time permanent basis (37.5 hours per week; casual positions are also available). The role is based in Bolton, with fieldwork nationwide.

Our team has provided expert archaeological and heritage services for over 25 years, demonstrating a commercially aware approach and effective delivery to a wide range of UK clients. Our post‑exc hubs in Carlisle and Bury St Edmunds host purpose‑built facilities for finds analysis, palaeoenvironmental processing, post‑excavation analysis, publication, and outreach, and we support dedicated field teams in Carlisle, Bury St Edmunds, Birmingham, Bolton, and Nottingham.

Successful candidates will supervise small to large teams and lead projects of varying complexity, depending upon experience (minimum two years for Senior Archaeologists, five years for Principal Archaeologists, with at least one year supervisory experience). Both Senior and Principal Archaeologists will support the company by writing reports, completing smaller‑scale reports with wider team support, and contributing significantly to larger‑scale reporting. Candidates should have, or be willing to develop, strong report writing skills and the ability to interpret findings onsite.

Knowledge of GIS recording, use of GPS equipment, a full clean driving licence, 4x4 or van driving experience, and car access are essential.

Membership of CIfA at PCIfA or ACIfA level would be highly advantageous for all roles. Permanent staff will be expected to attend one of our archaeological offices on a hybrid basis when not on site; casual/temporary staff will be site‑based.

Permanent staff must be flexible over travel and hours as we work on sites across the UK, although we endeavour to offer staff work close to their home base or office wherever possible. For projects close to a local office, transport to the site is available. Travel time for drivers (in full) or passengers (if exceeding 45 minutes each way) is compensated as paid overtime or TOIL, subject to an annual limit.

Subsistence, travel allowance, and accommodation are provided for all staff working away.

SLR’s ‘One Team’ culture provides a collaborative and supportive environment for professional development. Through a structured career framework, regular performance reviews, and full support toward chartership, professional qualifications and licences, we offer outstanding opportunities for long‑term career progression.

Our flexible benefits and reward package includes:

• Competitive salary with discretionary bonus
• Company pension
• Private medical insurance
• Life, income, and travel insurance
• Salary sacrifice car lease and cycle to work schemes

We believe sustainable careers need balance, that’s why we offer:

• Flexible, hybrid and agile working
• 25 days’ annual leave plus flexible public holidays
• Buy or sell leave options
• Core working hours
• Cross‑border remote working and sabbatical opportunities

Family life and wellbeing matter at SLR: we provide enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave, access to an Employee Assistance Programme, and specialist support for mental health, stress, and menopause – supporting our people both professionally and personally.

Inclusion is fundamental to who we are. We are committed to equal opportunities and foster a workplace where everyone can thrive, supported by active Culture & Inclusion Committees and Employee Networks. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are a Disability Confident Committed employer. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to support you.