Big Island Research – Western Australia
Full-time | Professional Development Pathway | Field & Office-based
About Us
Big Island Research (BIR) is a Western Australian–owned consultancy specialising in archaeology and cultural heritage management.
With more than 50 years of combined heritage experience across our Director team, we deliver exceptional expertise and high-quality services to a broad client base — including Aboriginal Representative Bodies, Prescribed Bodies Corporate (PBCs), private proponents, and local governments.
We are also active in the research and development space, with our team engaged in diverse projects generating high-impact presentations, posters, and publications in collaboration with Traditional Owner groups.
BIR integrates key research outcomes into consulting practice, creating meaningful opportunities for staff development in this space.
BIR is known for professionalism, diligence, and integrity, delivering practical and effective heritage management solutions while ensuring heritage is documented, recorded, and reported to the highest standard.
We place great importance on finding the right fit for our growing team and maintaining an inclusive, supportive workplace culture where staff can develop toward tailored goals while contributing to high-quality outcomes.
About the Role
We're looking for archaeologists to join our growing team at BIR.
Full-time and casual opportunities are available, depending on experience and project requirements.
We offer a competitive salary package, commensurate with skills and experience.
Full-time: $85,000 – $110,000 p.a. (including superannuation)
Casual: $60 – $75 per hour
Finding the right fit for our team is important to us, and we're open to discussing relocation support for the right candidate.
You'll work on diverse and meaningful projects across Western Australia, contributing to archaeological fieldwork, research, analysis, and reporting (including desktop assessments and GIS).
We also offer tailored career development through our structured Professional Development Plan, supporting research goals and progression into advanced positions.
Key Responsibilities
Undertake research and desktop assessments using heritage databases (e.g. ACHknowledge, InHerit) and other archival materials
Assist with archaeological field surveys, excavations, and other assessments
Record sites and cultural materials accurately
Demonstrate proficiency in GIS and GPS use
Work respectfully and collaboratively with Traditional Owners
Analyse artefacts and contribute to high-quality reporting and mapping outputs
Maintain strong safety awareness and uphold BIR's WHS and business procedures
About You
You're a motivated archaeologist who values professionalism, cultural respect, and teamwork.
You enjoy both fieldwork and detailed research, and you take pride in producing accurate, high-quality work.
You'll bring:
Honours or postgraduate qualification in Archaeology (or related field)
Eligibility for AACAI Associate Membership
Strong knowledge of Aboriginal archaeological site types and artefact analysis
Working understanding of heritage legislation and protocols in Western Australia
Proficiency with GPS and Microsoft Office, with developing skills in GIS and spatial software
Ability to work effectively in a team and contribute positively to the workplace environment
Excellent communication, organisation, and time-management skills
A proactive, reliable, and culturally aware approach to work
Why Join BIR?
Be part of a respected heritage team delivering meaningful projects across WA's diverse landscapes, in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Work alongside highly experienced and recognised archaeologists and heritage professionals in a well-respected consultancy.
Contribute to meaningful projects that make a genuine difference to Aboriginal heritage outcomes, including research outputs.
Genuine, tailored career development pathways.
Supportive, collaborative team culture built on integrity and respect.
Flexible workplace with work-from-home provisions.
Fieldwork across diverse and culturally rich landscapes of Western Australia.
How to Apply
If this sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you.
Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest and the role you wish to apply for to:
#J-*****-Ljbffr