Historic Environment Advisor

This is an exciting opportunity to progress or start a career in Local Government Archaeology as we work to conserve the historic environment of the county. You will be helping to protect our known and unknown archaeological remains, historic buildings and landscapes. Crucially you will also be responsible for identifying for conservation archaeological remains which are currently unknown or poorly understood and ensuring appropriate archaeological standards are maintained when investigations are carried out. This is a unique opportunity to have a real impact on the historic environment of Hertfordshire for its communities.

For the right candidate this is also unique opportunity to be part of the dedicated LEADS team, addressing planning holistically across Landscape, Ecology, Archaeology and Design Sustainability, and exploring innovative and creative ways to approach wider priorities, such as climate change, place-making and sustainability.

You will be joining a team of experienced archaeologists and historic environment professionals providing high quality information and advice to the County Council and Hertfordshire Local Planning Authorities and developers. The role involves ensuring that the historic environment is a key consideration when applications for planning permissions are considered, and appropriate protection, enhancement and mitigation are properly undertaken including archaeological assessment, fieldwork, reporting and publication of results.

The work involves the interpretation and assessment of archaeological reports and records. You would be a person who thrives in an information rich environment combining an eye for detail with an ability to prioritise and make critical assessments of likely archaeological impacts. You will enjoy and have examples of tackling complex problems in a methodical manner using your own initiative but will also be able to showcase your ability to work positively within a team. The work requires a degree of flexibility and pragmatism in dealing with multiple planning authorities and a wide range of planning and development scenarios. The post would suit a well organised and solution focused individual.

You will have a working understanding of current heritage legislation and initiatives and be committed to ensuring that the benefits and importance of the historic environment form part of Hertfordshire’s planning and placemaking. The results of your advice will feed into the updating of the Historic Environment Record. Wider work of the archaeology team for the benefit of our communities has included assisting local groups, academics and museums with projects, providing advice when unexpected archaeological remains are found, working with the CBA to promote archaeology locally and ensuring outreach and public engagement of archaeological finds.

Within the wider LEADS team, you will contribute exploring ways to bridge nature and culture, and wider considerations their role in policy, public value and communities.

Additional Information

We are looking for you to hold a first or second degree in archaeology or related sciences or have appropriate work experience in a relevant discipline and will be able to demonstrate knowledge of archaeological fieldwork and recording, and an understanding of the way in which archaeological projects, including post-excavation and reporting, function. Knowledge of the planning system would be an advantage. Evidence of personal development such as a specialism will be a benefit but is not essential. In all cases we are seeking candidates that have an enthusiasm and knowledge of archaeology and historic buildings. You will have a proven ability to communicate well with a variety of audiences verbally and in writing and able to demonstrate effective time management skills. You must be proficient in the use of standard office computer software.

This is a great opportunity to be part of a team focused on making our environment sustainable for all of its communities in the face of significant challenges, such as climate change, diversity and education.

The role is about delivering a significant archaeological contribution in the public sector. It is also a rare opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary team and gain from knowledge exchange across LEADS specialists, and explore creative, cost-effective ways to ensure public value from our services.

The roll offers the right candidate the opportunity to progress their archaeological career by making a significant difference to the historic environment as part of the planning process.

The role offers flexible working arrangements and the opportunity to work part of the time remotely. You would also enjoy a range of benefits made available by Hertfordshire County Council.

​Diversity: We are an inclusive employer and value a diverse workforce

Closing Date: 26th April 2024

Interview Date: Week commencing 29th April 2024

Apply link - Historic Environment Advisor (hertfordshire.gov.uk)