Archaeologist

UCA is seeking an experienced Archaeologist to support cultural heritage projects across Victoria. This is a full-time role with a strong focus on Aboriginal archaeology and cultural heritage management. You will contribute to surveys, excavations, data interpretation, and the production of regulatory reporting, all while engaging with Traditional Owners and project stakeholders.

Join a passionate team working on a growing range of cultural heritage projects across Victoria. This is a hands-on, field-based role where your expertise will directly contribute to preserving and understanding Australia's rich cultural landscape.

About the Role

This role involves archaeological fieldwork and consulting across a wide variety of landscapes in Victoria. You will conduct site investigations, contribute to CHMPs, and provide technical input from the field to final reporting. You'll work closely with project leads, site teams, and clients to meet legislative, technical, and safety standards.

This is an onsite role which will be based at the project site, approximately one hour southeast of Melbourne.

Key responsibilities include:

• Carrying out archaeological surveys and excavations in accordance with UCA standards
• Performing field data collection, interpretation and analysis of Aboriginal cultural material
• Preparing reports, CHMPs and salvage documentation
• Liaising with Traditional Owners, clients, and other stakeholders
• Using survey equipment and software for fieldwork
• Daily reporting and communication with senior staff
• Contributing to project planning and task management
• Ensuring fieldwork is completed in line with OHS/WHS guidelines

About You

You bring strong field experience, a sound understanding of Aboriginal cultural heritage, and the ability to work productively both independently and within a team. You're confident in a range of field environments and are committed to producing work of high technical and ethical quality.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• A degree in Australian Aboriginal archaeology, OR related qualifications with relevant postgraduate training and consulting experience
• At least 3 years' experience in Australian Cultural Heritage Management
• Eligibility or current listing as a Heritage Advisor with First Peoples – State Relations
• Demonstrated fieldwork experience and ability to conduct archaeological surveys and excavations
• Experience preparing field documentation, interpreting data, and reporting
• Understanding of taphonomy, artefact analysis, and post-excavation processes
• Familiarity with Victorian heritage legislation and regulatory procedures
• White Card (or willingness to obtain prior to commencement)
• Current unrestricted Australian driver's licence

Desirable skills and experience:

• Supervisory experience on archaeological projects
• Geoarchaeological or environmental specialisations (e.g. lithics, macrofossils, pollen, charcoal, etc.)
• Experience with mechanical excavation and sample collection (OSL, radiocarbon)
• Competency in dGPS, Total Station, dumpy level, GIS, and spatial software
• Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, database software experience
• First Aid and CPR certification

Why Join Us?

• Work on meaningful heritage projects across Victoria
• Competitive salary package offered, including travel allowances
• Collaborative, experienced and supportive team
• Opportunities for professional development and field leadership
• Flexible working arrangements where possible
• Contribute to respectful, community-focused cultural heritage practice

How to Apply

Please apply via Seek with your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience and interest in the role. We are reviewing applications as they come in, so early submission is encouraged.