Job Description
Position: Cultural Heritage Preservation Specialist
Company: UNESCO Office for the Protection of Cultural Heritage
Location: Mbandjock, Cameroon
Experience: 3-5 years
Education: Master’s Degree in Cultural Heritage Management, Anthropology, or related field
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Cultural Heritage and Community Development
Department: Cultural Preservation
Salary: 3,500,000 – 4,500,000 XAF
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
The UNESCO Office for the Protection of Cultural Heritage is a global leader in safeguarding intangible and tangible cultural assets. In Cameroon, we collaborate with local communities to preserve ancestral traditions, historical sites, and indigenous knowledge systems. Our work in Mbandjock focuses on revitalizing endangered cultural practices while promoting sustainable tourism and education.
Job Overview
This role involves leading initiatives to document, protect, and promote Cameroon’s rich cultural heritage. The position is based in Mbandjock, a region known for its diverse ethnic groups and historical significance. Candidates will work directly with community leaders, NGOs, and government agencies to implement UNESCO’s cultural preservation frameworks.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct field research to identify and document intangible cultural heritage elements (e.g., oral traditions, rituals, crafts)
- Develop community-based preservation programs in collaboration with local stakeholders
- Coordinate heritage site assessments and risk mitigation strategies
- Design educational materials and workshops for cultural awareness campaigns
- Prepare reports for UNESCO and national authorities on project progress
- Secure funding through grant proposals for preservation initiatives
Required Skills
- Expertise in cultural mapping and ethnographic research methods
- Proficiency in heritage documentation software (e.g., GIS, 3D modeling tools)
- Bilingual fluency in English/French and a local Cameroonian language
- Strong project management and cross-cultural communication skills
- Experience with international heritage protection standards (UNESCO, ICOMOS)
- Ability to work in remote field conditions
Education
- Master’s Degree in Cultural Heritage Management, Anthropology, or related field
- Certification in Cultural Resource Management (CRM) preferred
Experience
- 3-5 years in cultural preservation projects
- Proven experience working with indigenous communities
- History of successful grant applications
Salary
3,500,000 – 4,500,000 XAF per month, commensurate with experience
Benefits
- Health insurance coverage
- Professional development stipend
- Relocation assistance
- Annual fieldwork equipment allowance
- Flexible work schedule
Training
- UNESCO’s Cultural Heritage Protection Protocols
- Advanced GIS mapping techniques
- Cross-cultural mediation workshops
- Emergency site preservation training
Working Environment
Hybrid role combining office work in Mbandjock with frequent field visits to remote cultural sites. Requires occasional international travel for UNESCO conferences and training programs.
Application Process
Submit your CV, cover letter, and three professional references to our official portal. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a cultural competency assessment and virtual interview with our Mbandjock team.
Equal Opportunity Statement
UNESCO is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, ethnicity, or background.