Chief Archivist Job Vacancy in Outjo, Namibia – Education & Culture

Job Description

Position: Chief Archivist

Company: UNESCO

Location: Outjo, Namibia

Experience: 8-10 years

Education: Master’s Degree in Archival Science or Library Science

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Education & Culture

Department: Cultural Heritage Preservation

Vacancies: 1

Company Overview

UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is a specialized agency aimed at promoting global peace and security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. With a storied history of protecting world heritage sites and intangible cultural assets, UNESCO operates on a global scale to ensure that the collective memory of humanity is preserved for future generations. In Namibia, UNESCO focuses on the intersection of indigenous knowledge, historical documentation, and the digitalization of ancient records to foster national identity and educational growth. By partnering with local governments and academic institutions, the organization works to bridge the gap between traditional oral histories and modern archival standards. This commitment to cultural diplomacy makes UNESCO a premier destination for those seeking meaningful employment in Namibia, offering a platform where academic rigor meets humanitarian purpose. The organization is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, ensuring that the preservation of history is a collaborative effort involving all sectors of society.

Job Overview

The Chief Archivist role is a senior leadership position designed to oversee the systematic collection, preservation, and accessibility of critical cultural and historical records in the Outjo region. This role is pivotal for anyone seeking high-level career opportunities in Namibia, as it requires a blend of technical expertise in archival science and strategic management skills. The successful candidate will lead the transition from physical to digital repositories, ensuring that fragile documents are conserved using international standards while remaining accessible to researchers and the public. This position is not merely about storage; it is about curation and the storytelling of a nation’s journey. By implementing advanced metadata schemas and climate-control protocols, the Chief Archivist will safeguard the intellectual heritage of the region. For those exploring various jobs in Namibia, this role offers a unique chance to influence how history is recorded and taught. You will be responsible for coordinating with international experts and local community leaders to identify undocumented heritage sites and records that require urgent intervention.

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Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan for the acquisition and preservation of historical records.
• Lead the digitalization project to convert physical archives into searchable, high-resolution digital formats.
• Establish strict environmental controls and security protocols to prevent the degradation of rare manuscripts.
• Collaborate with educational institutions to integrate archival materials into national curricula.
• Manage a team of junior archivists and technicians, providing mentorship and professional development.
• Conduct detailed appraisals of incoming collections to determine their historical value and retention priority.
• Organize public exhibitions and seminars to promote the importance of cultural heritage preservation.

Required Skills

• Expertise in archival software and Digital Asset Management (DAM) systems.
• Deep knowledge of international standards such as ISAD(G) and Dublin Core.
• Strong leadership and project management capabilities.
• Fluency in English and proficiency in local Namibian languages is highly preferred.
• Advanced skills in document conservation and chemical stabilization techniques.
• Excellent analytical and research skills for historical verification.

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Education

Candidates must possess a Master’s Degree in Archival Science, Library and Information Science, or a closely related field from an accredited university. Specialized certifications in Digital Preservation or Museum Studies are considered a significant advantage.

Experience

A minimum of 8 to 10 years of professional experience in archival management is required. This must include at least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial capacity, preferably within a governmental, academic, or international NGO setting. Proven experience in leading large-scale digitalization projects is essential for this job vacancy in Namibia.

Benefits

• Competitive international salary scale with comprehensive health insurance.
• Generous annual leave and paid sabbatical opportunities for research.
• Relocation assistance and housing allowance for candidates moving to Outjo.
• Participation in the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund.
• Access to global networking events and professional conferences.

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Training

• Advanced training in the latest archival conservation technologies.
• Leadership and management workshops provided by UNESCO HQ.
• Certification courses in International Heritage Law.
• Cross-cultural communication and sensitivity training.

Working Environment

The working environment is a mix of a climate-controlled archival facility and field visits to remote historical sites. The role requires a high degree of precision and patience, often working in quiet, focused settings, while also requiring the social energy to lead meetings and public events. As part of a global organization, the Chief Archivist will interact with colleagues across different time zones, necessitating a flexible approach to communication and collaboration. This position is ideal for a dedicated professional who values the intersection of science, history, and education.

Application Process

Interested applicants should submit a comprehensive CV and a cover letter detailing their experience with digital transformation in archives. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a technical assessment followed by a panel interview. We encourage all qualified professionals seeking hiring in Namibia to apply through the official UNESCO careers portal. Please ensure all academic credentials are verified and attached to the application.

Equal Opportunity Statement

UNESCO is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees regardless of race, religion, gender, or nationality. We strongly encourage women and underrepresented groups to apply for this position to ensure a diverse representation of perspectives in the preservation of our global history.