National Officer (Architect Restorer)

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. UNESCO operates in over 190 countries and has a workforce of more than 2,000 employees. The organization is dedicated to fostering cultural heritage preservation, education, and scientific advancement, with a strong emphasis on promoting cultural diversity and sustainable development. In Syria, UNESCO is particularly focused on the recovery and safeguarding of cultural heritage that has been severely impacted by conflict and natural disasters, such as the recent earthquake in February 2023.

Job Overview:
The National Officer (Architect Restorer) position at UNESCO is crucial for the preservation and restoration of Syria's cultural heritage, particularly in Aleppo, which has faced significant damage due to years of conflict and the recent earthquake. The role involves providing technical support for UNESCO's cultural heritage program, ensuring effective coordination and quality control of restoration activities. The incumbent will work closely with national and local authorities, museums, and other stakeholders to implement conservation strategies that align with UNESCO's standards and the World Heritage Convention. The position requires a proactive approach to translating project objectives into actionable field activities, ensuring that all interventions respect the cultural significance and integrity of heritage sites. The role also involves monitoring and documenting restoration efforts, preparing technical reports, and contributing to the development of a National Strategy for the Recovery and Development of the Culture Sector in Syria.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Serve as the national technical focal point for architectural conservation and restoration activities in Syria, primarily focusing on Aleppo while also supporting other priority locations.
• Translate UNESCO project objectives and conservation principles into practical field actions, ensuring alignment with national heritage regulations and UNESCO standards.
• Review and update documentation and damage assessments for priority cultural properties, focusing on the Ancient City of Aleppo and other UNESCO-supported sites.
• Prepare and technically coordinate conservation and restoration documentation, including architectural drawings, specifications, and cost estimates.
• Provide technical supervision and quality assurance for emergency stabilization and restoration works, conducting regular site inspections and maintaining site records.
• Ensure all interventions adhere to sound conservation principles, safeguarding Outstanding Universal Value for World Heritage properties.
• Support assessments of museums and cultural institutions, focusing on preventive conservation and safe storage.
• Contribute to UNESCO procurement processes for heritage activities, preparing technical documentation and evaluating contractors.
• Monitor technical progress against workplans and maintain systematic records of activities. 1
• Prepare high-quality technical notes and reports for activities in Aleppo and other regions. 1
• Carry out additional duties as required to ensure effective implementation and sustainability of UNESCO's cultural heritage program.

Required Qualifications:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Architectural Conservation, Architectural Restoration, Built Heritage Conservation, Cultural Heritage Conservation, or a closely related field is required. A professional degree in Architecture combined with a recognized postgraduate specialization in conservation/restoration may also be accepted as equivalent. Candidates must demonstrate sound knowledge of architectural conservation theory and practice, with the ability to apply conservation principles effectively. Strong organizational, planning, and reporting skills are essential, along with the ability to manage multiple technical activities under tight timelines. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are necessary for effective collaboration with various stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as Architectural Conservation, Architectural Restoration, or Cultural Heritage Conservation. A professional degree in Architecture with a recognized postgraduate specialization in conservation/restoration may also be considered equivalent. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of architectural conservation and the technical requirements of the role.

Experience:
At least two years of relevant professional experience in architectural conservation and restoration is required. This includes field-based assessments, preparation of technical documentation, and supervision of works on historic buildings or sites. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in the conservation, stabilization, rehabilitation, or restoration of traditional masonry and historic structures, including the diagnosis of building pathology and coordination with structural engineers and other specialists.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge (spoken and written) of English and Arabic is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of French would be considered an asset, enhancing communication capabilities within the international context of UNESCO's work.

Additional Notes:
The position is a Service Contract at the SB4 level, with a duration of 12 months. It is open to external candidates, specifically nationals of the Syrian Arab Republic. The application deadline is set for midnight UTC+2 on 15/11/202

• The recruitment 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, applying a zero-tolerance policy against harassment. The organization encourages applications from individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities.