Project Assistant (Geophysics)

Pension scheme

Healthcare cash plan

PPE provided

Salary £27,147 per annum

Location Northampton

This is a Temporary, Full Time vacancy that will close in 24 days at 23:59 GMT.

The Vacancy

Six month Fixed Term Contract - with potential extension

MOLA is seeking a Project Assistant to join our Geophysical Survey team in Northampton. This is an entry-level role, open both to candidates with prior experience in archaeology or geophysics and to those who can demonstrate the aptitude and enthusiasm to develop in the role.

Geophysical survey entails the use of electronic instruments to map buried archaeological remains and is usually carried out to assess sites ahead of excavation.

The Role

The project assistant's role is primarily field based, working under direct supervision to collect data with magnetometer carts and other survey instruments across a range of sites. Full training in the operation of survey equipment, data collection and data processing will be provided.

The role involves:

• Walking for sustained periods across sometimes challenging rural terrain
• Working outdoors in all weather conditions
• Handling and transporting survey equipment
• Office-based tasks including data processing, equipment maintenance, and occasional travel between premises

Candidates should be able to meet the physical requirements of the role as described. Reasonable adjustments will be considered in accordance with our obligations under the Equality Act 2010.

Driving work vans is an essential requirement of the role, so candidates should have a full UK driving licence and meet the requirements of MOLA's insurers (detailed below, under 'Candidate Profile')

Travel Requirements

The geophysics team works across southern and central England and many of our sites are beyond reasonable daily commuting distance of Northampton. The successful candidate will therefore be expected to undertake frequent ‘away work’. Overnight accommodation and a subsistence allowance will be provided where applicable.

Important information regarding equipment

Many of our surveys involve working in close proximity to highly sensitive magnetic instruments. Certain medical implants or metallic devices may interfere with these. Candidates who believe this may affect them are encouraged to contact us for a confidential discussion so that we can consider the likely degree of impact and implications.

Candidate Profile

Candidates must have the following essential requirements:

• An interest in archaeology and/or geophysics
• An aptitude for sustained outdoor fieldwork in varied weather conditions
• An ability to understand and follow technical instructions
• A full UK driving licence and eligibility to drive under the company’s motor insurance policy (the insurers’ criteria includes a minimum age of 21 years, and 2 years driving experience)

The successful candidate will also:

• Have relevant transferable skills (e.g. computer skills, experience of working on farmland or similar environments, etc)
• Demonstrate numeracy and confidence using standard computer software
• Have good spatial awareness and attention to detail
• Work effectively as part of a small team
• Show initiative, reliability, and a willingness to learn

Prior experience is welcome but not essential.

Want to find out more?

If you would like more information regarding this opportunity or an informal discussion about the role, please contact MOLA's Geophysical Survey Manager, John Walford - jwalford@mola.org.uk

HOW TO APPLY

Closing date for all applications: Tuesday 7th April 2026

Please apply via the recruitment portal link on the MOLA website, where you will find the full job description and person specification.

Artificial intelligence tools may be used to support your application; however, all examples and statements must be truthful, accurate, and based on your own real experience and knowledge.

Please note all applicants must have the right to work in the UK without restrictions. Proof of eligibility will be required prior to commencement.

MOLA is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.

The Company

MOLA is an experienced and innovative archaeology practice. We have been providing independent, professional heritage advice and services for over 40 years across the UK and internationally on schemes both large and small. Our commercial services are designed to help our development, infrastructure and construction sector clients to meet their planning process requirements swiftly and expertly, with the certainty and value they need.

As an education charity our aim is to inspire people to be curious about their heritage. We are proud of our award-winning community engagement and education programmes, which are founded on partnership and participation. As an Independent Research Organisation, we set out to share the knowledge and information we generate with the widest audience possible for the benefit of society. The research we conduct as part of the planning and development process takes place alongside our own research framework. 

The Benefits

Generous annual leave allowance

Cycle to work scheme

Healthcare cash plan

Generous sick pay provision

Employee Assistance Programme

Gym discounts

Generous parental leave

PPE provided

Relevant professional subscriptions paid

Employer contribution pension scheme

Free access to over 900 museums, galleries & exhibitions

Season ticket loans

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Published

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Closing

in 24 days

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