Excavation technician

At the University of Vienna, almost 11,000 individuals explore the mysteries that shape our future. Among them, approximately 3,000 dedicated employees provide administrative and technical support for cutting-edge international research and teaching. We are currently seeking an Excavation technician.

40 Faculty of Historical and Cultural Studies

Job vacancy starting: 01.01.2027 | Working hours: 40.00 | Classification CBA: §54 VwGr. IIIb

Job ID: 6139

If you love to conduct archaeological excavations, then welcome to the team. The Department of Prehistory and Historical Archaeology is advertising a post in excavation techniques and archaeological building research at the Chair of Historical Archaeology. The post is closely linked to the ongoing research programmes Dynamics in Rural Areas and Identities and Material Cultures at the Chair of Historical Archaeology.

Your future tasks:

The excavation technician is expected to assist the Chair of Historical Archaeology with the administration and execution of archaeological fieldwork. This involves the organisation, conduct, documentation and reporting of teaching and research excavations, as well as practical sessions and work placements in archaeological building research and comparable activities.

• Technical supervision of the excavation, independent documentation including using a total station and image-based modelling, for example with drones, management of artefact records, creation of Harris matrices, and contribution to Parts A and B of the excavation report in accordance with BDA guidelines
• Independently producing plans, including photographic plans, for archaeological building documentation
• Participation in teaching excavations and building research courses

This is part of your personality:

• Successful candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Prehistory and Historical Archaeology or a related archaeological discipline before taking up the position.
• Knowledge of medieval and modern archaeology, demonstrated through relevant training or practical experience.
• Practical experience in conducting stratigraphic excavations, including the creation of Harris matrices.
• In-depth knowledge of surveying techniques, digital documentation and analysis in excavations and/or building research projects.
• Knowledge of administration and reporting in archaeological excavations and/or building research.
• Demonstrable knowledge of image-based modelling, CAD systems and geographic information systems, preferably QGIS.
• Experience of working in a team and on interdisciplinary research projects.
• Proficiency in German, minimum C1, and written and spoken English, minimum B2.
• A Category B driving licence is essential.

What we offer:

• Contract duration: The job vacancy starts with January 1st, 2027. The contract is limited until 31.12.2027 with option to convert to a permanent contract.
• Fair salary: The monthly gross salary is 3.131,30 EUR, 14 times per year, Allg. Personal IIIb, Grundstufe. Prior experience can be taken into account.
• Work-life balance: The position is full-time, with a standard working week of 40 hours. Flexible working hours are offered.
• Inspiring working atmosphere: You are part of a committed team with diverse university backgrounds in a relaxed work environment.
• Good public transport connections: Your workplace in the center of Vienna is easily accessible by public transport. The place of work is Vienna, unless you are traveling for research purposes. A workspace in a shared office will be provided.
• Internal further training: Opportunity to deepen your skills on an ongoing basis, with over 600 courses to choose from free of charge.
• Equal opportunities for all: Every additional personality is welcome to the team.

It’s that easy to apply:

Applications can be submitted in German and must include:

• Letter of motivation, maximum 2 pages
• CV
• A list of previous excavation and building research activities, with a particular focus on administrative tasks and digital documentation work
• Evidence of training in digital documentation techniques such as CAD, GIS and Image Based Modelling
• Leaving certificates
• Further documents, if necessary

If you have any content questions, please contact:

Thomas Kühtreiber

thomas.kuehtreiber@univie.ac.at

Application deadline: 31.10.2026