National Project Officer

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to promote peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. With a presence in over 190 countries, UNESCO works to foster cultural diversity, protect cultural heritage, and promote sustainable development through education and cultural initiatives. The organization is committed to the principles of integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism, and aims to empower communities through cultural heritage conservation and management.

Job Overview:
The National Project Officer will play a crucial role in managing, coordinating, and implementing all aspects of the documentation, rehabilitation, and reconstruction of the Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This position is integral to UNESCO's efforts in Iraq to protect and promote cultural heritage as a means of fostering social cohesion and economic development. The officer will work closely with the UNESCO Culture team in Iraq and liaise with various stakeholders, including local authorities, NGOs, and community members, to ensure the successful execution of the project. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying challenges and facilitating communication among stakeholders to enhance project visibility and community engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will manage all project activities, including the recruitment of technical team members, supervision of project staff, and formulation of work plans. Responsibilities include preparing standardized documentation, developing an information management system, and producing detailed designs and construction drawings. The officer will also prepare bills of quantities, specifications, cost estimates, and tender documents for conservation components. Comprehensive construction management services will be provided, including supervision of contracts with contractors and consultants. The officer will anticipate and address challenges in the construction process, liaise with local authorities, organize stakeholder meetings, and facilitate information sharing among stakeholders. Additionally, the officer will undertake missions as necessary for project implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in architecture, architectural conservation, engineering, or a related field. A minimum of four years of progressively responsible work experience in architectural conservation, cultural heritage, or related fields is required. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to read and interpret construction drawings, possess broad knowledge of historical building materials and construction methods, and have excellent coordination and organizational skills. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, as well as the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and manage heavy workloads while paying attention to detail.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in architecture, architectural conservation, engineering, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to manage and oversee the conservation and rehabilitation of cultural heritage sites effectively.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of four years of progressively responsible relevant work experience in architectural conservation, cultural heritage, or related fields. This experience should include managing projects related to the conservation and rehabilitation of historic structures, as well as working with diverse stakeholders in a multicultural environment. The ability to demonstrate a track record of successful project management and coordination is crucial for this role.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English and Arabic languages (both written and spoken) is mandatory for this position. A working knowledge of the Kurdish language is considered desirable, as it would facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of project implementation.

Additional Notes:
This position is a project appointment with a duration of one year, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of funds and satisfactory performance. The role is open to both internal and external candidates, but only nationals of Iraq may apply. The approximate annual starting salary for this position is 58,413 USD, and benefits may include 30 days of annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages candidates from under-represented groups to apply.