Consultant for Cultural Heritage Preservation

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Mission in Kosovo is dedicated to promoting peace, stability, and democracy in the region. Established in 1999, the mission operates with a focus on human rights, rule of law, and the protection of cultural heritage. The organization employs a diverse workforce and engages in various projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life for all communities in Kosovo. The mission collaborates with local institutions and international partners to ensure the effective implementation of its initiatives, particularly in areas that require urgent attention, such as the preservation of cultural heritage sites.

Job Overview:
The Consultant for Cultural Heritage Preservation will play a pivotal role in the ExB project funded by Norway, which aims to preserve the cultural heritage of non-majority communities in Kosovo through digital documentation and restoration of cultural heritage sites. The consultant will be responsible for providing technical and substantive inputs to ensure quality control and the effective implementation of the project. This includes overseeing the digital documentation of the villages of Velika Hoča/Hoçë e Madhe and Letnicë/Letnica, drafting technical specifications for bidding documents, and providing guidance to local architects on restoration projects. The consultant will also be involved in field trips to supervise the work of digital documentation companies and ensure that all deliverables meet international conservation standards and best practices. The position requires a strong background in cultural heritage conservation, digital documentation techniques, and project management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be tasked with drafting technical specifications and evaluation criteria for the bidding documents necessary to hire a company for the digital documentation of the villages. They will review proposals submitted by digital documentation companies and provide detailed feedback to the OSCE Project Manager. The consultant will also offer technical advice and guidance to the selected company throughout the documentation process. Additionally, the consultant will undertake a three-day trip to Kosovo to supervise the 3D laser scanning works, review submitted files and documents, and provide feedback for adjustments. They will guide local architects on their draft restoration projects and participate in technical meetings to ensure alignment with project goals. The consultant's deliverables will include timely submissions of technical specifications, feedback on proposals, and participation in field trips and meetings, all aimed at achieving the project's objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in architecture, engineering, cultural heritage conservation, or a related field. A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in cultural heritage restoration and preservation is required, with a proven track record in digital documentation and conservation of cultural heritage sites. Experience in designing, planning, and implementing 3D digital documentation techniques, including laser scanning and photogrammetry, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate their expertise through the submission of at least five samples of previous work, ideally including the drafting of bidding documents. A deep knowledge of relevant computer software (such as MetaShape and AutoCAD) and equipment (including cameras and laser scanners) is necessary, along with excellent written and spoken English skills. Attention to detail and a commitment to quality control are also critical for this role.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master’s degree, which is defined as a second-level university degree or equivalent, in a relevant field such as architecture, engineering, or cultural heritage conservation. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage sites.

Experience:
The consultant must have a minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience in the field of cultural heritage restoration and preservation. This experience should include a strong focus on digital documentation techniques, with a history of working on projects that involve the conservation and restoration of cultural heritage sites. The consultant should have a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and best practices in the field, enabling them to provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the project.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. This proficiency is essential for effective communication with project stakeholders, including the OSCE Project Manager and local architects. While not mandatory, knowledge of additional languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset, enhancing the consultant's ability to engage with diverse communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy contract is expected to last for 12 working days, with the possibility of extension depending on the availability of funding for the next phase of the project. The position is classified under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) and is categorized as a consultant role. The OSCE Mission in Kosovo is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Remuneration will be based on the consultant's qualifications and experience, in accordance with established OSCE rates. Applicants must complete the OSCE's online application form, and only fully completed applications will be accepted. The deadline for applications is March 22, 2026.