Creating Career Path...

Finding Further Careers...

Science & Research

Experimental Archaeologist

View this career for different education levels:

Primary Secondary Post-16

An experimental archaeologist is like a detective who doesnt just look at old clues, but tries to recreate them to understand the past better. Imagine finding an ancient tool made of stone. An experimental archaeologist wouldnt just describe it; they would try to make a similar tool themselves using ancient techniques. They might then use that tool to chop wood or skin an animal, just like people in the past might have done. This hands-on approach helps us understand how difficult tasks were, what materials were used, and why ancient people made things the way they did. It is all about trying to experience history to learn from it. They might build replicas of ancient houses, try out old farming methods, or even test out how old weapons were used. This work often involves getting dirty, learning traditional crafts, and sometimes even living like people from the past for a short time. They use their experiments to test theories that regular archaeologists develop from digs and artifacts. It is a brilliant way to bring history to life and learn things that books alone cant teach us.

Experimental Archaeologist

Flag Media

Please select a reason for flagging this content.

📊 Statistics

Average Starting Salary

For an entry-level archaeologist, including those in experimental roles, salaries often start around 20,000 to 25,000 pounds per year in the UK. This can increase with experience and specialisation.

Number of Archaeologists

While specific numbers for experimental archaeologists are hard to pinpoint, the broader archaeology sector in the UK employs thousands of people. Historic England, a public body, works with many archaeological professionals across the country.

Project-based Work

Many experimental archaeologists work on a project-by-project basis or with universities, museums, or heritage organisations, meaning varied work locations and durations throughout the year.

🚀 Careers in this path

Flag Media

Please select a reason for flagging this content.

Archaeological Illustrator

Imagine being an artist who draws and paints the amazing things archaeologists find, like old pottery or ancient tools. Youd make sure people could see what these discoveries looked like, even if they couldnt visit the dig site.

Flag Media

Please select a reason for flagging this content.

Heritage Education Officer

This is like being a teacher, but your classroom is an ancient castle or a historic site! You'd create fun activities and tell interesting stories about the past to visitors, especially school groups, making history come alive.

Flag Media

Please select a reason for flagging this content.

Museum Collections Assistant

You'd help look after all the incredible historical objects in a museum, making sure they are stored safely and correctly. You might even help prepare them for display, so everyone can learn from them.

Build a Strong Foundation

Do well in school subjects

Focus on subjects like History, Science (especially Biology, Chemistry, and Physics), Geography, and Art. These will give you a great base for understanding ancient civilisations and the materials they used.

History helps you understand timelines and cultures, Science teaches you about materials and dating methods, Geography explains environments where people lived, and Art can help you appreciate ancient crafts and designs. Try to engage with these subjects, ask questions, and do extra reading if you find them interesting. Joining a history or science club at school can also be a fantastic way to explore these topics further and meet others with similar interests.

Read about archaeology

Explore books, documentaries, and websites about archaeology and ancient cultures. Learn about famous discoveries and different archaeological methods.

There are many fascinating books written for young people about archaeological digs, famous empires like the Romans or Egyptians, and how archaeologists piece together the past. Websites from museums like the British Museum or the National Trust often have educational resources. Watching documentaries on TV or online can also bring ancient worlds to life. The more you read and watch, the more you'll understand what the job is all about.

Develop practical skills

Start building things, learning crafts, or trying outdoor activities. Skills like woodworking, pottery, weaving, or even gardening can be really useful.

Experimental archaeologists often need to be good with their hands. Trying out practical hobbies now can help you develop dexterity and an understanding of materials. For example, trying to make a pot without a modern wheel, or weaving on a simple loom, can give you a tiny taste of what ancient people did. Even things like camping and bushcraft can teach you about survival skills that were essential in the past.

Gain Experience and Education

Volunteer at a local museum or heritage site

Many museums or historical sites offer volunteer opportunities, especially during school holidays. This can give you a peek behind the scenes and show you how historical artefacts are cared for.

Volunteering helps you understand how archaeological finds are preserved and presented to the public. You might help with setting up exhibits, guiding visitors, or even assisting with educational workshops. This experience looks great on your CV later and shows your commitment to the field. Always check with an adult first to find suitable and safe opportunities.

Go to university to study Archaeology

After your A-levels, the most common path is to study Archaeology or a related subject like Ancient History, Anthropology, or even a specific craft at university.

A university degree provides the in-depth knowledge and theoretical understanding needed for a career in archaeology. Many universities in the UK offer excellent Archaeology courses, often including field trips and opportunities for practical experience. Some degrees might even have a focus on experimental archaeology or ancient technologies. Look at course descriptions carefully to see what interests you most.

Participate in archaeological field schools or digs

During your university studies or even as a volunteer, try to join an actual archaeological dig or a field school. This is where you learn how to excavate and record findings.

This is often the most exciting part! You'll learn how to use tools, identify different layers of soil, carefully uncover artefacts, and accurately record everything you find. Many universities run their own digs, or you can find opportunities with organisations that specialise in archaeological training. This hands-on experience is crucial for understanding the practicalities of archaeology and making connections in the field.

Specialise and Get Employed

Develop a specialism in experimental archaeology

Focus on a specific area of interest within experimental archaeology, such as ancient metallurgy, pottery, building techniques, or textiles.

Experimental archaeology is a broad field. By focusing on a specific area, you can become an expert. For example, you might choose to specialise in recreating Bronze Age tools, understanding how Roman roads were built, or replicating Viking ship construction. This specialism will make you stand out and can lead to specific research projects or roles. You might do a Masters or PhD degree to deepen your knowledge in this chosen area.

Network with other archaeologists and researchers

Attend conferences, workshops, and join archaeological societies. Meeting other professionals can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations.

Building connections, or 'networking', is really important in many careers. By meeting people who are already working in archaeology, you can learn about job vacancies, get advice, and even find mentors. Archaeological societies often host events where you can meet like-minded individuals and hear about current research. Don't be shy about introducing yourself and showing your enthusiasm.

Apply for jobs in heritage organisations or universities

Look for roles with archaeological units, museums, heritage trusts, or universities that focus on research and education. Some experimental archaeologists even set up their own research projects or companies.

Jobs can be varied, from being a research assistant on a specific experimental project to working as an educator at a living history museum, demonstrating ancient crafts. Some roles might be project-based, while others could be more permanent in research institutions. Don't be discouraged if the first few applications don't work out; keep learning, gaining experience, and refining your skills. Your passion and practical abilities will be your greatest assets.

🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Experimental Archaeologist. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

🎓 View Apprenticeships

Career Progressions

This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.

Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.

Remember, progressing in your career often involves further learning and training. This page provides insights into future career options as well as those that can lead up to your current one.

These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!

Sample Qualifications

An Experimental Archaeologist specialises in recreating historical technologies and practices to test hypotheses about past human behaviour, which is a specific methodology within the broader field of archaeology, making 'Archaeologist' the most fitting classification.

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship

University

Most professional archaeologists have a degree and many also have a postgraduate qualification.

You can do a degree in archaeology or a related subject, like:

  • environmental archaeology
  • human evolution
  • archaeological science
  • ancient history
  • conservation and cultural heritage

You can search for higher education archaeology courses on British Archaeological Jobs and Resources.

After completing a first degree, you could take a postgraduate course and specialise in a particular field. 

Examples include:

  • osteoarchaeology - studying human remains
  • marine archaeology - investigating coastal and underwater sites
  • digital archaeology - creating visualisations of ruins and finds

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

Apprenticeship

You could apply to do an Archaeological Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, with an archaeological consultancy, university department or heritage organisation. This could lead to a position like archaeological site assistant or finds technician.

With further training, you could become a professional archaeologist.

You could also complete an Archaeological Specialist Level 7 Postgraduate Degree Apprenticeship.

The degree apprenticeship typically takes 3 years to complete and combines learning on-the-job with university study.

Employers will assess your skills, experience and qualifications when you apply, and usually require a relevant first degree.

Entry requirements

Employers will set their own entry requirements.

More Information

Volunteering

Competition for courses and jobs is very strong. It's essential that you get practical experience.

Local and regional archaeological associations run volunteer fieldwork programmes for all age groups.

These offer you the chance to get hands-on experience, doing tasks like:

  • site surveys
  • excavations
  • recording finds

You can find volunteering opportunities through the Council for British Archaeology.

More Information

Career tips

There are a lot of different specialisms in archaeology and skills you have from another career can be useful, for example:

  • computer-aided design (CAD)
  • illustration
  • photography
  • geographical information systems (GIS)

Professional and industry bodies

You can join the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists for professional development training and networking opportunities.

Further information

You'll find more details about how to become an archaeologist from the:

Interested in More Career Paths?

Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.

Browse All Careers Generate New Career Path

Stay connected

Join our newsletter to stay up to date on features and releases

Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK

Phone
01603 273515

Email
[email protected]

Developing Experts

LessonsAboutResearchReportingPlans & Pricing

Legal

GDPRPrivacy PolicyTerms and ConditionsCookie Policy

Contact Us

Get in touchRequest SubscriptionChildren's CodeAbout UsCareers

Copyright 2026 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.