Matt A.
About me
| Matt A. | |
| Archaeology | |
| BA Archaeology | |
| Undergraduate | |
| James | |
| 2019 | |
| Jersey |
My employment
| Consultant Archaeologist | |
| JBA Consulting | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Environment and energy |
More about Matt
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A day in the life of a Consultant Archaeologist in the United Kingdom
The change from fieldwork to consultancy was a challenging one and I am still learning new things daily in my role.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
JBA Consulting are a medium sized Environmental Consultancy service providing a range of services but specializing in Flood Risk Management.
What do you do?
I work as an Archaeology and Heritage Consultant providing my clients with advice for navigating the planning process with regard to archaeology and heritage and completing Desk Based Assessments, Written Schemes of Investigation and Heritage Impact Assessments. I also undertake surveys and site visits as part of my role across the UK.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
I previously worked for 9 years as a golf greenkeeper in Jersey before making the choice to go to York and study archaeology. I had initially thought this was a big risk given the financial climate at the time but have managed to remain in employment in the archaeology sector both during my studies and after my graduation full time. I worked in commercial archaeology during my time at York through contacts gained by lecturers and made my way into consultancy in March 2020 after 4 years in the field.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
The change from fieldwork to consultancy was a challenging one and I am still learning new things daily in my role. I have found the job to be both interesting and to have great variety.
Describe your most memorable day at work
I was recently sent to complete a survey on a Blue Streak Missile, a medium ranged ballistic missile that was to be the UK's nuclear deterrent in the 60's and 70's which was a truly unique opportunity and one I wont forget in a hurry!
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
We complete contracts for large government bodies such as the Environment Agency and the Ministry of Defence so the pressure to perform to time and budget is a challenge but one that helps bring the team together and allows opportunities to succeed.
What’s your work environment and culture like?
Since starting we have been in lockdown and working from home so I have found the life work balance to be very good but socialising is difficult in these times.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I was a member of the York Uni Mountaineering Club and a team member. The best thing I gained from this was friends for life that I am still in regular contact with.
What would you like to do next with your career?
Continue to progress in consultancy with a view to exploring other sectors of archaeology or further education in the distant future perhaps.
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Network! Ask your lecturers if they know of any work opportunities or former students such as myself. Once you gain contacts in the archaeological sector it can be the key to unlocking many doors.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
Having worked in both archaeological fieldwork and consultancy I can answer questions about both sectors.
Next steps...
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