Cultural Impact Assessment Specialist Job Vacancy in Rundu, Namibia – Cultural Preservation & Heritage Management

Agricultural Laborer
Rundu
July 17, 2026
Full Time
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Job Description

Position: Cultural Impact Assessment Specialist

Company: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Namibia Office

Location: Rundu, Namibia

Experience: 3-5 years

Education: Master’s degree in Cultural Heritage Management, Archaeology, or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Cultural Preservation & Heritage Management

Department: Cultural Heritage

Salary: 120,000 – 150,000 SSP

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Namibia Office is a global leader in promoting cultural preservation, education, and scientific collaboration. With a mission to safeguard intangible cultural heritage and foster sustainable development, UNESCO operates in over 190 countries, including Namibia, where it partners with local communities to protect historical sites, traditions, and indigenous knowledge systems. In Rundu, UNESCO focuses on bridging modern development with cultural preservation, ensuring that infrastructure projects and urban expansion do not erode Namibia’s rich heritage. The office collaborates with national institutions, NGOs, and international stakeholders to create frameworks for heritage impact assessments, training programs, and policy development.

Job Overview

This role is critical to UNESCO’s initiative to integrate cultural impact assessments into national development planning. The Cultural Impact Assessment Specialist will lead evaluations of proposed projects—such as infrastructure, tourism, and mining—to identify potential risks to cultural heritage. The position requires a deep understanding of Namibia’s cultural landscape, including Khoisan traditions, colonial-era sites, and contemporary heritage practices. Candidates will work closely with local communities, government agencies, and international experts to ensure development aligns with UNESCO’s global standards for heritage protection.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct comprehensive cultural impact assessments for proposed development projects in Rundu and surrounding regions.
  • Collaborate with local communities to document oral histories, traditional practices, and cultural landmarks.
  • Develop mitigation strategies to preserve heritage sites affected by urbanization or industrial projects.
  • Prepare detailed reports for UNESCO, government bodies, and stakeholders, including risk assessments and recommendations.
  • Design and deliver training programs for local professionals on heritage impact assessment methodologies.
  • Participate in cross-sectoral working groups to align cultural preservation with economic development goals.

Required Skills

  • Expertise in cultural heritage impact assessment frameworks (e.g., ICOMOS, UNESCO guidelines).
  • Proficiency in GIS mapping and heritage site documentation tools.
  • Strong analytical skills for evaluating socio-cultural risks and benefits of development projects.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities, including working with indigenous communities.
  • Fluency in English and Afrikaans; knowledge of local Namibian languages is an asset.
  • Experience in preparing technical reports and presenting findings to diverse audiences.

Education

Candidates must hold a Master’s degree in Cultural Heritage Management, Archaeology, Anthropology, or a related discipline. A PhD is preferred but not mandatory. Professional certifications in heritage impact assessment or cultural resource management are highly advantageous.

Experience

Applicants should have 3–5 years of experience in cultural heritage assessment, preferably in sub-Saharan Africa. Prior work on UNESCO or World Heritage Site projects is a significant advantage. Experience in community-based heritage management and interdisciplinary collaboration is essential.

Salary

The position offers a competitive salary of 120,000–150,000 Namibian Dollars (SSP) per annum, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits

  • Health and dental insurance coverage for the candidate and immediate family.
  • Annual professional development allowance (up to 10,000 SSP) for conferences, training, or certifications.
  • Relocation assistance for candidates relocating to Rundu.
  • Flexible work arrangements, including remote work for specific project phases.
  • Access to UNESCO’s global network of cultural heritage experts and resources.

Training

  • Onboarding program to familiarize with UNESCO’s cultural heritage protocols and Namibia’s legal framework.
  • Workshops on advanced GIS mapping for heritage sites and community engagement techniques.
  • Leadership development modules for managing cross-cultural teams.

Working Environment

The role involves a mix of office-based work in Rundu and fieldwork across Namibia. Travel to remote heritage sites, community consultations, and stakeholder meetings is required. The office environment is collaborative, with access to cutting-edge heritage management software and a team of multidisciplinary experts.

Application Process

To apply, visit https://namibiajobsearch.com and submit a CV, cover letter, and three professional references. Applications must include a 500-word statement outlining your approach to balancing development and cultural preservation in Namibia. The deadline is 14 days from the posting date.

Equal Opportunity Statement

UNESCO Namibia Office is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Qualified candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

For more career opportunities in Namibia, explore https://www.angolajobsearch.com.

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