Graduate Profile: Archaeology

Name: Adam Paterson
Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Archaeology (Honours)
Position: Heritage Consultant (Archaeologist)
Organisation: Archaeological & Heritage Management Solutions Pty Ltd (AHMS)
Commencement Date: February 2005

Could you give us a description of what your current position involves?

My role at AHMS involves providing clients, usually public or private sector developers with specialist advice regarding their obligations under the NSW Heritage Act 1977. This advice is usually presented in an Archaeological Impact Assessment report for a proposed development. Preparation of assessment reports requires, historical research, Internet searches of relevant heritage registers, site inspection and of course, writing.

Another major part of my work as a consultant is undertaking archaeological excavation prior to development. This work involves a variety of tasks such as, directing machine excavation, manual hand excavation, recording of archaeological contexts, archaeological planning and survey and photography.

Preparation of archaeological excavation reports documenting the results of these investigations is the final step in the process required by the relevant government department.

With your experiences in securing employment what advice would you give to students?

Although preparation of Archaeological Assessment reports, Research Designs and Excavation Reports, is now a major component of my work, initially I was employed as an archaeological assistant, undertaking excavation, site survey, artefact cleaning and preparation of plans, or figures for reports.

I actually undertook very little report writing in the first year of my employment. I would certainly encourage students to volunteer for as many field related projects as they can afford and fit in around their study and work commitments. Gaining almost three months experience undertaking fieldwork, in addition to the compulsory course work programmes offered at university was definitely a contributing factor to my employment.

Development of skills such as preparation of plans for reports, use of Photoshop, and arc-GIS programmes should also be encouraged, as these are skills that employers often rate quite highly.

How did you go about finding graduate employment? How has your career progressed from here?

Networking. I met my first employer at a conference, and they encouraged me to move to Sydney, offering some short-term work. When this work finished my first employer recommended me to my current employer (AHMS) who I have been with for almost three years. While working at AHMS I have developed a variety of skills particularly my report writing, but have also improved my competency in many field related tasks, particularly excavation and archaeological planning.

Briefly describe the application and interview processes you have been through.

It was quite informal, it began with a phone conversation whereby I made arrangements with my first employer regarding the short term work that he was able to offer. Then once I was in Sydney my current employer (AHMS) approached me with an offer of a position as an archaeological assistant. I guess a lot of it came down to being in the right place at the right time, but none of it would of happened if I hadn't been at the conference.

Do you have any further helpful hints for students/graduates?

Make the most of the opportunities that you have at university and don't be afraid to take some chances when it comes to applying for work. It may not be possible to gain employment in archaeology close to your family and friends, but it is an industry that provides opportunities to work in many different and exciting parts of the country.