Heritage/Conservation Architect

Job Posting Organization:
The Technical Services Unit (TSU) is a specialized unit within UNOPS that focuses on multidisciplinary design and advisory work for infrastructure projects. Established to enhance the quality and sustainability of infrastructure, the TSU comprises around 20 permanent staff and over 60 consultants, including various engineering and architectural professionals. The unit operates across multiple countries in Africa, including Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Sierra Leone, Morocco, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Zambia, Mozambique, and Madagascar, and is based in Nairobi. The TSU is tasked with advising on broader issues within the built environment, including design peer reviews and infrastructure carbon assessments, thereby contributing to the sustainable development goals of the UN.

Job Overview:
The Heritage/Conservation Architect position within the TSU involves a range of responsibilities focused on the conservation and restoration of heritage sites and buildings. The role requires the architect to engage in the review of documents and policies related to conservation, liaise with heritage bodies, and prepare design proposals for conservation projects. The architect will be responsible for developing design documentation that adheres to applicable codes and standards, conducting site assessments, and collaborating with other disciplines to ensure the delivery of coherent technical packages. The position demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to maintaining high standards of quality in all aspects of work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Heritage/Conservation Architect include: reviewing documents and policies from conservation and heritage centers, advising design and project management teams, leading liaison efforts with heritage bodies, preparing concept design proposals for conservation projects, developing design documentation in compliance with codes and standards, revising documentation as necessary, conducting site assessments and preparing reports, attending coordination meetings, and collaborating with other disciplines to produce coherent technical packages of information. The architect must ensure that all work aligns with the organization's goals and contributes positively to the built environment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Heritage/Conservation Architecture or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. Professional registration with a recognized institution is also required. The position demands a minimum of 7 years of experience in conservation architectural design, with a distinct advantage for those knowledgeable in vernacular architecture approaches, particularly in Africa. Experience in the restoration of heritage buildings and proficiency in software such as AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, or REVIT is desired, along with familiarity with Google Suite applications.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's) in Heritage/Conservation Architecture or a related subject. A first-level university degree (Bachelor's) may be accepted if accompanied by two additional years of relevant experience. Professional registration with a recognized institution is mandatory, ensuring that candidates have the necessary qualifications to undertake the responsibilities associated with heritage conservation.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of experience in conservation architectural design. Candidates with experience in the restoration of heritage buildings and knowledge of various vernacular architecture approaches, particularly in the African context, will be at an advantage. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, or REVIT is also preferred, as well as experience with Google Suite applications, which will aid in the execution of the role's responsibilities.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. Candidates who possess additional language skills may have an advantage, particularly if those languages are relevant to the regions in which the TSU operates. However, English remains the primary language of communication within the organization and is essential for effective collaboration and documentation.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is a Local Individual Contractor Agreement (LICA) Retainer Contract, specifically at the LICA 10/ICS 10 level. The initial contract duration is one year, with the possibility of renewal based on satisfactory performance and funding availability. This retainer contract is structured to provide services intermittently, with payment based on a specified unit price per day worked. It is important to note that there is no minimum payment guarantee, and compensation is only provided upon completion of work. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. Additionally, candidates must complete mandatory courses before commencing work, which are not compensated. UNOPS also conducts background checks on all potential personnel, and recruitment is contingent upon the results of these checks.