Documentalist

Job Posting Organization:
The UNESCO International Bureau of Education (IBE) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that focuses on education. Established in 1925, the IBE has a mission to contribute to the improvement of education worldwide through the development of educational policies and practices. The organization operates in multiple countries, working collaboratively with various stakeholders to enhance educational systems and promote access to quality education. The IBE is committed to preserving historical educational resources and making them accessible for future generations, which is evident in its ongoing digitization projects.

Job Overview:
The Documentalist position at the UNESCO International Bureau of Education (IBE) is a consultancy role focused on the cataloguing and digitization of archival collections. The primary objective of this position is to support the IBE in continuing its efforts to digitize historical archives from the period 1969-2000, ensuring that these materials are organized, accessible, and preserved according to international standards. The role involves working closely with the Head of the Knowledge Creation and Management Programme and requires a comprehensive understanding of archival management, cataloguing practices, and the ability to work with various stakeholders to facilitate the relocation of archival materials. The Documentalist will play a crucial role in enhancing the usability and accessibility of these collections, contributing to the overall mission of the IBE.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Documentalist will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Cataloguing and Classification: Supporting the organization, classification, and cataloguing of archival records in accordance with international standards such as ISAD(G), MARC 21, and Dublin Core. Updating inventory lists of uncatalogued materials, preparing, organizing, and labeling both physical and digital records for processing. Handling, sorting, and physically organizing archival materials, including retrieving, moving, and re-shelving boxes and files as required.
• Repository Management and Records Disposal: Assisting in identifying and processing records eligible for disposal in line with retention policies, coordinating with relevant stakeholders regarding records disposal, and overseeing the secure physical destruction of records where applicable.
• Research and Documentation Support: Providing support to researchers by facilitating access to archival materials and contributing to the usability and accessibility of catalogued and digitized collections.
• Prioritization for Digitization: Identifying high-priority materials for digitization based on historical value, demand, and preservation needs, and contributing to strategies that enhance access and discoverability of digitized content.
• Coordination and Reporting: Liaising with internal and external stakeholders, contributing to reporting, documentation, and knowledge-sharing activities, monitoring progress of assigned tasks, and ensuring timely delivery of outputs. The Documentalist will also perform other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Library and Information Science, Archival Studies, Documentation, or a related field. They should have a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant professional experience in archival management, cataloguing, or documentation. A demonstrated knowledge of international cataloguing and archival standards such as ISAD(G), MARC 21, and Dublin Core is essential. Experience with digital repositories and library management systems, such as TIND or Invenio, is considered an asset. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are crucial, along with the ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in Library and Information Science, Archival Studies, Documentation, or a closely related field. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the principles and practices of archival management and cataloguing, as well as the technical skills needed to work with digital repositories and archival standards.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant professional experience in the fields of archival management, cataloguing, or documentation. This experience should include a strong understanding of international cataloguing and archival standards, as well as practical experience in managing archival collections and working with digital systems.

Languages:
Candidates must have excellent written and spoken English. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication within the multilingual environment of UNESCO and enhance the ability to work with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy contract is set for a duration of 5 months, from May to September 202

• The position is open to external candidates, and the application process requires interested individuals to submit their applications through the UNESCO careers website by the deadline of 28 April 2026, midnight Geneva time. The selection process may include pre-recorded video interviews, written assessments, and reference checks. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence, and integrity in its hiring process, and encourages individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities, to apply. All applications will be treated with confidentiality, and UNESCO does not charge any fees during the hiring process.