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Archivist & Project Manager - Geohazards at Stantec · Reading
Skills
Job Description
Have a passion for history, heritage and geology? Interested in uncovering the stories behind the UK's historic landscapes while helping protect communities and infrastructure?
We're looking for an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Archivist & Project Manager to join our specialist Geohazards team at Stantec. The role would ideally be based in Reading, given the location of our associated archives and future project pipeline. However, we're happy to consider candidates based in London or Edinburgh.
This is a genuinely unique opportunity to take ownership of one of the UK's most fascinating geological archives: the Stantec Cavities Database. Originally established in the 1980s, it now contains more than 32,000 records of naturally occurring cavities and non-coal mining features across the UK, supported by an extensive collection of historical resources. Some records even document Roman and prehistoric mining!
You'll play a key role in preserving, expanding and managing this valuable resource, combining historical research, geological information and modern digital tools. Alongside this, you'll have the opportunity to take on a wider project management role, working with leading specialists on projects that tackle some of the UK's most challenging ground conditions.
For more information, please see Geohazards | Stantec
ABOUT THE ROLE
You'll take the lead in managing and developing the Cavities Database, ensuring its continued growth, accuracy and value to our clients. Combining archival research, data management, GIS and client engagement, no two days will be quite the same.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Database management: Overseeing the Cavities Database, managing new records, updates, client enquiries, quotations and relationships with licensees.
- Historical research: Reviewing historical maps, mining plans, geological records, academic papers and industrial heritage documents to uncover and validate new information.
- Digital data and GIS: Maintaining and developing information within our digital database and GIS systems.
- Technical reporting: Preparing factual and archive search reports, bringing together historical research and technical information for clients.
- Project management: Managing budgets, programmes and resources to ensure projects are delivered to the required quality, timescales and commercial targets.
- Client relationships: Building positive relationships with clients, contractors and colleagues, providing clear advice and supporting successful project delivery.
- Research and development: Supporting and potentially leading research and development initiatives to continually improve our services.
As you gain experience in the role, you'll also have opportunities to manage increasingly varied and high-profile Geohazards projects. Our team regularly responds to ground collapses and other instability events, sometimes where there is an immediate risk to life or property. This can involve coordinating emergency responses and managing longer-term investigation and remediation works.
This is a fantastic opportunity to combine your interest in history and heritage with a broader project management career within a highly specialised team.
YOUR IMPACT
You'll be joining a team of Geohazards specialists working across the UK and internationally to understand, manage and reduce the impacts of ground instability.
Our work helps protect communities, safeguard the environment and preserve critical infrastructure. From karstic ground conditions and legacy mining hazards to landslides and unexpected ground collapses, we tackle complex challenges that have a real impact on people's lives.
Through your work on the Cavities Database, you'll help preserve an important record of the UK's geological and industrial heritage while providing essential information to support future infrastructure and development projects.
ABOUT YOU
We're looking for someone who combines an interest in history, heritage or geology with excellent organisational skills, a passion for research and the ambition to take on project management responsibilities.
You'll ideally bring:
- A degree in Earth Sciences, Natural Sciences, Geology, Geography or a related discipline. We also welcome applications from those with backgrounds in Archaeology, Geoarchaeology or Heritage-related subjects.
- Experience managing databases or large, complex datasets.
- Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret historical information from a variety of sources.
- Experience using GIS would be advantageous, although training can be provided.
- An understanding of project management principles, with experience managing projects, budgets or programmes. An APM Project Management Qualification (PMQ) or equivalent would be beneficial.
- Experience with contract documentation, licensing or licence agreements would be an advantage.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with confidence engaging with clients, contractors and multidisciplinary teams.
- Strong organisational and time management skills, with exceptional attention to detail.
- Commercial awareness and an understanding of delivering value for clients.
Above all, you'll have a genuine enthusiasm for history, heritage and archaeology, alongside an interest in geology and the UK's mining legacy. You'll be curious, proactive and keen to take ownership of a specialist service.
A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel when required are also essential.
Why Join Us:
We put people first: We're proud of our friendly, inclusive and collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and driven to succeed.
We are driven to achieve: Named in the top 50 companies to work by Glassdoor 2025. Recognised by Corporate Knights as one of the world's top 10 most sustainable companies 2025. Named ‘Best Place to Work’ and ‘International Consulting Firm of the Year’ at the NCE Awards 2024.
We do what is right: Industry leading training and development as well as paid for professional subscriptions. A professional progression plan, supporting you to become chartered with ICE.
We are better together: A supportive and collaborative team environment and Early Careers peer group and wider ERG network (see more on our ERGs here: Stantec Employee Resource Groups)
Growth: We're on an exciting growth journey across the UK & Ireland - we want you to be part of it!
Great Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus schemes, enhanced pension plan, annual leave with the option to buy/sell additional days, private medical insurance, group income protection & life assurance included as standard as well as discounted gym membership and lots more.
Flexible working: Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with our hybrid approach to flexible working.
#LI-JP1 #GEO
Qualifications
Have a passion for history, heritage and geology? Interested in uncovering the stories behind the UK's historic landscapes while helping protect communities and infrastructure?
We're looking for an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Archivist & Project Manager to join our specialist Geohazards team at Stantec. The role would ideally be based in Reading, given the location of our associated archives and future project pipeline. However, we're happy to consider candidates based in London or Edinburgh.
This is a genuinely unique opportunity to take ownership of one of the UK's most fascinating geological archives: the Stantec Cavities Database. Originally established in the 1980s, it now contains more than 32,000 records of naturally occurring cavities and non-coal mining features across the UK, supported by an extensive collection of historical resources. Some records even document Roman and prehistoric mining!
You'll play a key role in preserving, expanding and managing this valuable resource, combining historical research, geological information and modern digital tools. Alongside this, you'll have the opportunity to take on a wider project management role, working with leading specialists on projects that tackle some of the UK's most challenging ground conditions.
For more information, please see Geohazards | Stantec
ABOUT THE ROLE
You'll take the lead in managing and developing the Cavities Database, ensuring its continued growth, accuracy and value to our clients. Combining archival research, data management, GIS and client engagement, no two days will be quite the same.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Database management: Overseeing the Cavities Database, managing new records, updates, client enquiries, quotations and relationships with licensees.
- Historical research: Reviewing historical maps, mining plans, geological records, academic papers and industrial heritage documents to uncover and validate new information.
- Digital data and GIS: Maintaining and developing information within our digital database and GIS systems.
- Technical reporting: Preparing factual and archive search reports, bringing together historical research and technical information for clients.
- Project management: Managing budgets, programmes and resources to ensure projects are delivered to the required quality, timescales and commercial targets.
- Client relationships: Building positive relationships with clients, contractors and colleagues, providing clear advice and supporting successful project delivery.
- Research and development: Supporting and potentially leading research and development initiatives to continually improve our services.
As you gain experience in the role, you'll also have opportunities to manage increasingly varied and high-profile Geohazards projects. Our team regularly responds to ground collapses and other instability events, sometimes where there is an immediate risk to life or property. This can involve coordinating emergency responses and managing longer-term investigation and remediation works.
This is a fantastic opportunity to combine your interest in history and heritage with a broader project management career within a highly specialised team.
YOUR IMPACT
You'll be joining a team of Geohazards specialists working across the UK and internationally to understand, manage and reduce the impacts of ground instability.
Our work helps protect communities, safeguard the environment and preserve critical infrastructure. From karstic ground conditions and legacy mining hazards to landslides and unexpected ground collapses, we tackle complex challenges that have a real impact on people's lives.
Through your work on the Cavities Database, you'll help preserve an important record of the UK's geological and industrial heritage while providing essential information to support future infrastructure and development projects.
ABOUT YOU
We're looking for someone who combines an interest in history, heritage or geology with excellent organisational skills, a passion for research and the ambition to take on project management responsibilities.
You'll ideally bring:
- A degree in Earth Sciences, Natural Sciences, Geology, Geography or a related discipline. We also welcome applications from those with backgrounds in Archaeology, Geoarchaeology or Heritage-related subjects.
- Experience managing databases or large, complex datasets.
- Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret historical information from a variety of sources.
- Experience using GIS would be advantageous, although training can be provided.
- An understanding of project management principles, with experience managing projects, budgets or programmes. An APM Project Management Qualification (PMQ) or equivalent would be beneficial.
- Experience with contract documentation, licensing or licence agreements would be an advantage.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with confidence engaging with clients, contractors and multidisciplinary teams.
- Strong organisational and time management skills, with exceptional attention to detail.
- Commercial awareness and an understanding of delivering value for clients.
Above all, you'll have a genuine enthusiasm for history, heritage and archaeology, alongside an interest in geology and the UK's mining legacy. You'll be curious, proactive and keen to take ownership of a specialist service.
A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel when required are also essential.
For further information contact Jade Powell in the Talent Acquisition Team.
Benefits
The Stantec community unites more than 34,000 employees working in over 450 locations across 6 continents. We have been working with our clients and communities in the UK for over 150 years. We plan, design, deliver and manage the development and infrastructure needed to support the creation of sustainable, healthy and prosperous communities.
Our teams provide effective and relevant solutions, translating our clients’ vision into valued consents, deliverable plans for projects and programmes, and efficient designs for delivery, based on technical excellence and deep market insights. We deal with today’s challenges, but also keep a fairer, better tomorrow in sight, looking at how we deliver clean growth, support radical changes in our economy and meet the needs of future communities.
Stantec provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for future and current employment and prohibit discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. We prohibit discrimination in decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, referral, promotion, compensation, fringe benefits, job training, terminations or any other condition of employment. Stantec is in compliance with laws and regulations and ensures equitable opportunities in all aspects of employment.
Building an inspired, inclusive work environment that attracts, supports, and develops world-class talent is a crucial key to our success. If you are excited by this role but worry that your experience doesn’t exactly align, we encourage you to apply.
At Stantec we want you to perform your best at every stage of the recruitment process and are committed to ensuring it is accessible to all. If you need any support or require adjustments to be made then please contact careers.UK@stantec.com and we will talk to you about how we can support you.