Heritage Researcher - Newtownabbey

Posted 03 March 2026
Salary £18.80 - £18.85 per hour + Additional Benefits
LocationNewtownabbey
Job type Temporary
Discipline Business Support
ReferenceCB222333_1772531660

Job description

VANRATH are delighted to be assisting our major Public Sector client, a large organisation with the recruitment of a Heritage Researcher to join their team based in Newtownabbey.

What's in it for you?

  • £18.85 per hour
  • Fixed term contract (up to 12 months, with funding secured until March 2027)
  • Opportunity to work on a major externally funded heritage programme
  • Involvement in trail development, archival research and community engagement

About your next employer

You'll be joining a progressive local authority within its Community Development function, supporting the Arts, Culture, Tourism and Events team. The organisation delivers a wide range of cultural and regeneration initiatives designed to strengthen communities, celebrate heritage and promote regional growth.

About you

  • Postgraduate degree in History, Heritage, Culture, Archaeology or a related discipline
  • Minimum of 2 years' recent experience conducting historical or heritage research
  • Experience within the heritage, cultural or community sector (desirable)
  • Strong research, analytical and organisational skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • High attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Full driving licence (or access to suitable transport)
  • Flexibility to work outside normal hours when required

What you'll do

  • Undertake original historical research to inform heritage trail development
  • Analyse maps, archives, photographs, census data and other primary sources
  • Develop high-quality written and visual content for print, digital and narrated formats
  • Engage with community groups and stakeholders to uncover local stories
  • Create and maintain a verified database of historical research
  • Support funding compliance, documentation and programme reporting
  • Contribute to the delivery of themed driving and walking trails across the borough

For further information on this opportunity, or any other position in Belfast or wider Northern Ireland, please apply via the link or contact Conor Birch in the strictest confidence.

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