Cultural Heritage Documentation Specialist Job Vacancy in Bardera, Somalia – Cultural Preservation and Digital Archiving

Job Description

Position: Cultural Heritage Documentation Specialist

Company: ICOMOS Somalia Office

Location: Bardera, Somalia

Experience: 3-5 years

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

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Cultural Preservation and Digital Archiving

Department: Heritage Documentation

Salary: 300,000 – 450,000 SSP

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

ICOMOS Somalia Office is a global leader in cultural heritage preservation, dedicated to safeguarding Somalia’s historical and archaeological treasures through digital archiving, community engagement, and international collaboration. With operations spanning 30+ countries, ICOMOS prioritizes sustainable heritage management and capacity-building initiatives in conflict-affected regions.

Job Overview

This role focuses on documenting and digitally preserving Somalia’s intangible and tangible cultural heritage sites in Bardera. The specialist will work with local communities, historians, and archaeologists to create high-resolution 3D models, geospatial records, and metadata for Somalia’s UNESCO-listed and at-risk heritage locations. Explore Somalia’s cultural preservation initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct field surveys of historical sites, monuments, and oral traditions in Bardera region
• Utilize photogrammetry, GIS mapping, and 3D scanning technologies for digital documentation
• Collaborate with local elders and cultural custodians to record intangible heritage practices
• Develop metadata standards for digital archives compliant with ICOMOS international guidelines
• Prepare technical reports and conservation recommendations for heritage sites

Required Skills

• Proficiency in GIS software (QGIS, ArcGIS) and 3D modeling tools (Blender, SketchUp)
• Experience with photogrammetry equipment and data processing workflows
• Strong understanding of ICOMOS-ICCROM conservation principles
• Bilingual communication skills (Somali/English) for community engagement
• Ability to work in remote field conditions with limited infrastructure

Education

Master’s Degree in Archaeology, Cultural Heritage Management, Digital Humanities, or related field. Certifications in heritage documentation technologies (e.g., laser scanning, drone photogrammetry) are highly advantageous.

Experience

Minimum 3 years in cultural heritage documentation projects, preferably in conflict-affected regions. Experience with international heritage organizations like UNESCO or ICCROM is preferred.

Salary

300,000 – 450,000 SSP monthly, commensurate with experience and technical proficiency.

Benefits

• Field equipment allowance for photogrammetry gear and protective equipment
• Annual professional development budget for heritage technology training
• Health insurance covering fieldwork-related injuries
• Relocation assistance for candidates from outside southern Somalia
• Opportunities for international conferences and heritage technology workshops

Training

• Advanced photogrammetry and 3D modeling certification program
• Heritage risk assessment and conflict zone documentation protocols
• Community-based heritage management methodologies
• Digital archiving standards for cultural institutions

Working Environment

Fieldwork in remote heritage sites with occasional office work in Bardera. Must be prepared for variable weather conditions and limited access to electricity. Regular community meetings and stakeholder coordination required.

Application Process

Submit your CV, portfolio of heritage documentation projects, and three professional references to ICOMOS Somalia’s official portal. Applications accepted until 2026-08-15.

Equal Opportunity Statement

ICOMOS Somalia Office is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in cultural heritage preservation. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, ethnicity, or background.