Heritage and Archaeology
Heritage and archaeology careers focus on preserving, researching, and interpreting our shared past, from ancient landscapes to archives and historic buildings. The work can be varied and rewarding, but roles are often competitive and may be short-term or project-based at entry level. Opportunities exist in conservation, research, public engagement, or policy, across charities, local authorities, universities, and commercial firms. Entry routes are diverse but gaining experience whether through volunteering or paid opportunities is key.
Explore job roles
Heritage and archaeology professionals might work in excavation, research, conservation, education, or public engagement. Archaeologists help recover and interpret material evidence through fieldwork or consultancy, while heritage professionals may focus on managing historic sites or influencing policy. Roles range from hands-on to strategic and often blend skills in communication, analysis, and project management.
Use the job profiles below to find out about, skills, entry routes and experience.
- Archaeologist Prospects profile
- Heritage manager Prospects profile
- Archivist Prospects profile
- Historic buildings inspector/conservation officer Prospects profile
Tip: Use the information about skills in the profiles to help you build a tailored CV.
Building skills and experience
Many roles in this sector are highly competitive, some may require specific academic qualifications as well as experience, whilst others may just require relevant work experience. Volunteering is a common route in, whether supporting archaeological digs, helping to interpret collections, or assisting at heritage sites. Employers value practical experience, fieldwork, and strong communication skills, so engaging with sector events and local networks can give you an advantage. A postgraduate qualification can be advantageous in certain roles.
Use the job profiles above to check which skills are normally needed for the roles you are interested in.
- Volunteer with local heritage sites, archives, or museums such as The Manchester Museum
- Join university societies related to history or conservation
- Explore fieldwork opportunities through local archaeology groups. A list of local North West Groups and societies can be found on the Council for British Archaeology North West website.
- Contribute to public engagement events or on-campus heritage projects. Opportunities can be found through the Volunteer Hub
- Complete online training or short courses via SpringPod or Historic England, which offers free, entry-level 'Essentials' training courses.
- Contact the University’s Archaeology Technician for volunteering opportunities: john.piprani@manchester.ac.uk
Finding and applying for jobs
Jobs in heritage and archaeology can be advertised on a range of specialist platforms, including academic sites and sector-specific job boards. Many roles are short-term or project-funded, especially in archaeology, so persistence and networking matter.
Find vacancies
- CareerConnect – University of Manchester
- British Archaeological Jobs and Resources (BAJR)
- Historic England jobs
- Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC)
- English Heritage Jobs
- National Trust Jobs
- The Institute of Conservation (Icon) Search jobs
- The International Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (IIC) (overseas jobs)
Further resources
- Current Archaeology Digs and fieldwork.
- Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) Professional body with events and training opportunities
- Council for British Archaeology Volunteering opportunities and resources.
- National Trust volunteering
Next steps
When planning your next steps you may have additional questions or want to explore certain aspects in more detail:
- Equality, diversity and your future career Explore diversity in the workplace and the support available to you.
- Careers appointments To help with planning your career, making decisions and exploring options.
