Building Heritage Researcher
Context and Project Objectives
Barnsley Civic is seeking an experienced heritage professional to lead and coordinate research into our historic decorative scheme; and additionally to make recommendations for a reinstated design as part of our capital redevelopment work. This role will be required to collaborate with Barnsley Civic Senior Leadership, Heritage engagement colleagues, and the project architects. The researcher will consult with staff, project volunteers, external stakeholders, and Barnsley Archives to produce a report looking at the history of the buildings decorative scheme and the broader historical context.
Timeline and Fee
Fee of £5000 in total
Project work to take place over 20 days over 8 Months between May 2026 – January 2027.
Scope of Work
Review recommendations and learnings from our Historic England 2020 Report and Heritage Statement.
Work closely with Barnsley Archives to extract additional information from Barnsley Archive and local studies centre on the original decorative scheme of Barnsley Civic.
Undertake wider research into the building’s original architects and other work carried out; with a particular focus on paint colours and decorative elements.
Conduct wider research throughout the region, looking at buildings of the period with a similar scale and use; a particular focus on the history of Mechanics Institutes will be part of this wider research.
Provide heritage interpretation content for use in permanently displayed interpretation boards, on the main design features of the building.
Respond to the work of our Archive Research volunteer group, incorporating any of their findings where appropriate into the research; and sharing valuable professional skills in a volunteer training session.
Produce a final report on their research on Barnsley Civic’s decorative scheme. This should report should cover the original scheme, the wider design inspirations of that time, any social/profession construction history from the time e.g. the original tile installer and manufacturer, any modern examples of buildings from the period which have retained their original scheme, and any other interesting historical material or stories related to original Victorian aesthetic of Barnsley Civic Hall etc.
Work with the project architects, and the capital team, to devise a proposal for the reinstatement of elements of the original scheme supporting paint choice, finishing etc. with a view to conserving or sympathetically improving the look and character of the building’s design features specifically in our entrance foyer.
Experience and Profile
Barnsley Civic welcomes and encourages applications from a broad range of backgrounds and experiences. We welcome applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith, socio-economic background, or disability. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process, in line with the Equality Act 2010.
The Building Heritage Researcher will have experience of working in multi-disciplinary teams to conduct research into the decorative scheme of public buildings. They will be able to demonstrate practical experience of developing and delivering projects related to arts and heritage, and in line with the outlined approach.
Submission Process
Your submission should cover the following information:
Details of previous experience of projects of this type including any projects supported by the NLHF
Illustrative examples of your work including an example of a similar reports produced for a heritage project
Your proposed method and approach to the project
Your proposed timetable including milestones
Two relevant professional referees we may contact
Email: jobs@barnsleycivic.co.uk
Closing Date: 25/05/26