Case studies : Project archaeologist: Dave

Dave is a project archaeologist based at a university. He says undertaking voluntary work, or working unpaid to get experience, is the key to having a successful career as an archaeologist.

I’ve always been interested in archaeology, and I was a member of young people’s archaeologist societies at school. After completing my A-levels I did a BSc in Archaeology, which I really enjoyed. I’ve always been interested in the science and technology side of the profession and I learnt a lot during my degree.

During summer holidays and my year out, I got work experience wherever I could; mainly working as a volunteer on excavation sites. The experience I gained was invaluable and gave me a good insight into the industry and really helped confirm that this was the career I wanted.

I then did an MA in Archaeology, and started applying for jobs all over the country, and I was lucky to be appointed as a project archaeologist at the university where I’d studied.

My degree was essential in getting my job, and of course the practical work experience I’d arranged for myself must have helped.

A typical working day can involve monitoring sites, carrying out research, writing reports and updates, producing drawings, and working with many other professionals in the industry.

I think my role has developed quite a lot, mainly due to technical advances – especially in IT, where I use CAD drawings, and GIS systems a lot. I must say I like this side of the job and keeping up to date with new technology.

What I enjoy most is being able to get out and about, visiting different sites and other areas of the country when I’m given the opportunity. The most challenging part of the job is probably managing projects, and supervising staff, particularly if they’re temporary or voluntary.

As for advice to give students interested in this as a profession, I would just say if it’s something that you’re really interested in and genuinely passionate about, then it’s very rewarding, but it can be hard work, so don’t be afraid to undertake voluntary work, or work unpaid to get experience, which really is the key to having a successful career.