Archaeological Consultant

The Dean and Chapter of Canterbury have responsibility for the fabric, monuments and Precincts of Canterbury Cathedral and has a duty to manage carefully the historic heritage of the Cathedral and to preserve any archaeological evidence, above and below ground, from unnecessary destruction.

Under the terms of the Care of Cathedrals Measure 2011 no works should be implemented which might materially affect any archaeological remains within the Precinct of the Cathedral, including works to the fabric of the cathedral church and any other buildings in ecclesiastical use unless proposals have been approved under the Measure.

The Cathedral Archaeological Consultant will act as the Dean and Chapters professional adviser on all archaeological maters for which it has responsibility; be consulted on all occasions where change, demolition or restoration is proposed anywhere within the Precincts; and provide this advice through the preparation of appraisals, assessments and management plans for the Cathedrals archaeology.

The Cathedral Archaeological Consultant is concerned with:

• What is defined in the Care of Cathedrals Measure as archaeological remains meaning the remains of any building, work or artefact, including any trace or sign of the previous existence of the building, work or artefact in question;
• Below ground evidence, including human remains, standing structures, the cathedral precinct and its historical development, and artefacts associated with the cathedral;
• Understanding these historic elements and the potential impact of change on them;
• Communicating that understanding as appropriate to others including those responsible for outreach;
• All aspects of the archaeological process from initial identification of significance through to publication and archiving of results from investigations;
• Working with professional colleagues having a shared interest in archaeological matters broadly defined, such as the Cathedral Architect, in-house masons etc.

We are seeking candidates with:

proven experience in the survey and analysis of historic buildings and archaeological sites, with special reference to church archaeology; proven experience of working successfully in an archaeological curatorial capacity; knowledge of the legislative and planning framework as it pertains to archaeology; knowledge of ecclesiastical buildings legislative systems; familiarity / capability with standard and relevant specialised IT packages; the ability to conduct minor excavations and recording work including working at heights and on scaffolding and with a positive approach to team-working.

To view the application pack and to apply, visit: www.canterbury-cathedral.org/get-involved/work-with-us

As applications are received, interviews may take place prior to the advertised closing date.

We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

We welcome applications from underrepresented groups.

Canterbury Cathedral is committed, within our Cathedral community to the safeguarding and protection of vulnerable people. This encompasses those who live, work, worship and visit here.

As part of our commitment to both child and adult protection, we carefully select and train paid and voluntary staff who might come into contact with these groups, using the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) if appropriate amongst other tools, to check their suitability.