Lead Geophysicist (Ireland)

Lead Geophysicist (Ireland)

Application Deadline: 30 November 2026

Department: Geophysics

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Republic of Ireland

Compensation: €41,763 - €43,613 / year

Description

Locations: Tallaght, Dublin (preferred), Other RSK Ireland locations considered. Hybrid working available

Contract Type: Permanent (with 6 month probationary period)

Closing Date: November 30th 2026

Following the creation of a new Geophysics and Exploration section, Headland is expanding its geophysical survey team and recruiting experienced staff in Ireland to meet its increasing project portfolio.

Do you want to be at the forefront of the development of geophysical survey techniques in the commercial field? Do you want to join a large team with a range of experience working on nationally important and interesting projects throughout Ireland, the EU and the United Kingdom?

Why Should You Apply?

• Unique knowledge and expertise. For the past 30 years, Headland has provided not only business-focused archaeology but also people-focused business. We are highly respected within our industry for our achievements in innovation, tailor made development coaching and training, and our expertise in commercial archaeology.
• Strong pioneering spirit. Our corporate culture is characterised by a healthy appetite for originality and development.
• Stable company with excellent growth. Over the years, we have demonstrated steady, positive economic development and formed successful partnerships.
• Good work environment. You will be surrounded by colleagues who are pleasant, professional, and enthusiastic about their work.
• Opportunity to influence. You get to work in an open climate, close to decision makers and with the possibility of making a difference.
• Part of RSK group. You will have further opportunities to become involved in nationally and internationally prominent projects with exciting prospects for career development. The group has c.17000 employees and c.230 environmentally lead companies.

The Role

We are looking for candidates who are self-driven with a positive outlook and excellent understanding of archaeological geophysics and Irish archaeology. The Lead Geophysicist role involves being in sole charge of small to medium sized projects covering a range of survey techniques including magnetometer, electromagnetic, earth resistance, GPR. The role also involves working within a wider team structure on larger and more complex projects. You will provide supervision, technical support and mentorship to teams of geophysicists involved with surveying. In addition, the role includes regular rotation on to office based tasks associated with reporting, processing or other activities relating to your own projects and those of the wider team.

As part of the geophysical survey team you will get involved in several large and exciting projects across Ireland, the EU and the UK. We have many large-scale infrastructure projects throughout 2026, which include landscape wide 1000+ha sites and linear schemes. Working away and travelling in new places is a normal part of this role.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise Essential Key Skills

• At least 6-12 months experience in commercial archaeological geophysics,
• Exhibit an aptitude for geophysical survey and willingness to learn and lead others
• Understand the principles of archaeological geophysics, surveying and leading small teams
• Understand key policies and laws applicable to role
• Proficient in use and understanding of MS Office suite,
• A relevant degree, or proven experience,
• Full, valid driving licence and willingness to travel,
• Sound knowledge of safe working practices for typical geophysical survey projects, competent at assessing and managing risk,
• A willingness to travel, work on projects across Ireland, the EU and the UK and when required stay on site and/or occasionally work weekends on geographically distant projects,
• Experience in the use of commercially available survey processing and graphics packages such as QGIS.
• Good time and pressure management skills, ability to use your own initiative within the company structure
• Good written and oral communication skills

Desirable Skills

• Membership of the CIfA or IAI
• Ability to motivate and help coordinate teams
• An ability to carry out prolonged manual work in an outdoor environment
• Ability to work under pressure and use your own initiative
• SHEQ Accreditations (Safe Pass, First aid, Asbestos Awareness, Lantra Sit Astride)

Benefits

• Competitive paid subsistence when applicable
• Paid accommodation when working away
• Use of cutting edge technology on site, e.g. paperless systems, iPads etc.
• Ongoing regular training in various areas e.g. Health & Safety, Technical areas and transferable skills
• Time off in lieu of time worked above standard hours or overtime paid
• Relocation package if eligible
• Annual profit discretionary bonus & performance-related bonus schemes, T&C apply
• Annual pay review
• Monthly clothing allowance
• 30 days annual leave, rising based on service length
• 5%-6% employer contribution to pension scheme
• Income Protection Policy, after a year with Headland
• Life Assurance Policy, insuring you 4 times your annual salary, after a year with Headland
• Regular performance, wellbeing & professional development check ins
• Referral scheme with generous fee
• A support group of 30+ Mental Health First Aiders
• Paid professional membership

Headland is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

If you have a disability or need any adjustments to enable you to take part in the interview, please contact us at .