We have just advertised for two new heritage consultants to join our team.
We work a four day working week (with no loss of pay) and are a lovely bunch so why not come and join us?!
Location: Belper, Derbyshire (remote working options available)
Salary: £30,000 – £45,000 commensurate with skills and experience
Closing date: 8th May 2026
MSDS Marine are a thriving, ambitious and respected marine and coastal contractor specialising in the delivery of high-quality archaeological and heritage services in the marine environment. Established in 2011, we have grown steadily to become a market leader in maritime archaeology in the UK, with a reputation for technical excellence, pragmatic advice and strong, long-term client relationships. We support projects across the full lifecycle, from early planning and EIA through to fieldwork and post-consent delivery, and we are trusted partners on a wide range of high-profile projects, including offshore renewables, multi‑national infrastructure, and works for national heritage agencies.
Our business is thriving and expanding, with a strong forward project portfolio and clear ambitions for the future. As part of our continued expansion, we are now looking to recruit two enthusiastic self‑motivated Heritage Consultants to join our team at our head office in Holbrook, Derbyshire, with remote working options available for the right candidates.
About you
This role would suit a motivated and engaged heritage professional who enjoys working in a multidisciplinary team and is keen to develop a career in maritime archaeology. A degree‑level education is expected, along with experience of applying heritage and archaeological expertise to planning and development projects.
Applicants should have a sound understanding of the UK historic environment, and be comfortable interpreting and applying relevant legislation, policy and curatorial advice. Experience of marine work is desirable but historic environment experience is essential. The ability to turn complex requirements into clear, proportionate and practical advice for clients is central to the role, as is a commitment to producing high‑quality work. The role involves contributing to a wide range of projects, primarily supporting the planning process (including EIA work). This may include desk‑based research, GIS analysis, report writing and collaborative problem‑solving with colleagues and clients. An organised and proactive approach is important, with the ability to manage workloads effectively both independently and as part of a supportive team.
Skills and experience:
Essential skills:
- At least two years’ experience in heritage consultancy (ideally marine)
- A sound understanding of UK archaeology, including relevant legislation, policy and guidance
- Experience contributing to planning and EIA work, such as DBAs, EIAs, WSIs and method statements
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to provide clear, proportionate and practical advice
- The ability to manage your own time effectively and take initiative
- Meticulous attention to detail and ability to follow and provide instructions
- Good working knowledge of GIS, ideally including ArcGIS Pro and QGIS
Desirable skills:
- Experience managing small to medium‑sized projects
- Membership of (or eligibility to apply for) CIfA
- A full UK driving licence
Employee Benefits:
MSDS Marine are proud to be a flexible, people-focused employer, and operate a 4‑day, 30‑hour working week with no loss of pay, reflecting our commitment to wellbeing, productivity and sustainable careers. We invest in our people through tailored training, professional development and supportive mentoring, and we actively encourage staff to shape their own career pathways as the company continues to grow.
We offer our employees the following as standard:
- Competitive salary range (appointments will be made on the basis of demonstrated ability, previous experience and CIfA membership as appropriate)
- A 4-day, 30-hour, working week with no loss of pay compared to a 5-day equivalent
- 100% contribution towards CIfA subscription fees (or other relevant professional memberships)
- 22 days p.a. holiday entitlement (equivalent to 5.5 weeks due to our 4-day working week) rising to 24 days (6 weeks) after 5 years’ continuous employment
- The option of up to 10 days’ unpaid leave annually to work on archaeology projects as a volunteer (subject to agreement)
- Bank holidays (currently 8 days) to be taken whenever suits you
- Paid sick leave from start of contract
- Immediate eligibility for inclusion in the group pension plan
- Accommodation provided for projects beyond reasonable travel distances, as well as an overnight subsistence allowance
- High quality Personal Protective Equipment and company clothing
- Individual training and development opportunities
- Free flu jabs
Applications
To apply please submit a cover letter, a CV and if possible, a recent example of work, to info@MSDSMarine.co.uk
For an informal discussion about the post please contact Alison James – Alison@MSDSMarine.co.uk
Underwater Archaeology and Maritime History jobs 