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Service Contract National Officer (Architect Restorer) at UNESCO

UNESCO

Published on October 20, 2026

LocationSyria DeadlineNovember 15, 2026 · OPEN Job typeTemporary International applicantsNo

About the opportunity

The UNESCO Culture Sector is seeking a qualified Architect Restorer to support its cultural heritage programme in Syria, with a primary focus on the Ancient City of Aleppo. The incumbent will act as a technical focal point, translating project objectives into field actions, conducting damage assessments, and supervising conservation works. This role involves close coordination with national authorities, including the Ministry of Culture and the Directorate-General of Antiquities and Museums (DGAM), to ensure interventions align with international standards and heritage regulations. The position requires technical expertise in architectural conservation, the ability to manage complex field operations in post-conflict and post-disaster contexts, and a commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage.

Salary and benefits

  • 12-month service contract
  • Professional engagement with international heritage standards and UNESCO cultural programmes
  • Opportunity to contribute to the recovery of World Heritage sites and cultural institutions in Syria

Who can apply?

  • Nationals of the Syrian Arab Republic
  • Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Architectural Conservation, Architectural Restoration, Built Heritage Conservation, Cultural Heritage Conservation, or a closely related field
  • Professional degree in Architecture combined with a recognized postgraduate specialization in conservation/restoration may be accepted as equivalent
  • At least two years of relevant professional experience in architectural conservation and restoration, including field-based assessment and supervision of works on historic buildings
  • Demonstrated experience in stabilization, rehabilitation, or restoration of traditional masonry and historic structures
  • Excellent knowledge (spoken and written) of English and Arabic

Required documents

  • Completed online application via the UNESCO Careers website

When to apply

  • Application deadline: 2026-11-15 (Midnight UTC+2)

How to apply

  • Visit the UNESCO Careers website
  • Complete the online application form
  • Submit the application before the deadline

Additional information

  • The recruitment process may include pre-recorded video interviews, written assessments, panel interviews, and reference checks.
  • Candidates may be added to Talent Pools subject to consent.
  • UNESCO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
  • The statutory retirement age at UNESCO is 65 years.

Our Take on This Opportunity

This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.

You may be a strong fit if…

  • Professionals with a background in architectural conservation who have direct experience working on historic sites in Syria.
  • Candidates who possess both technical architectural skills and the ability to navigate complex institutional and governmental frameworks.
  • Individuals with experience in post-conflict or post-disaster heritage recovery, particularly those familiar with the specific challenges of the Aleppo region.

What should you think carefully about?

  • This is a fixed-term service contract for 12 months, which may not offer long-term job security beyond the project duration.
  • The role involves working in a complex and evolving operational environment, requiring high levels of professional discretion and resilience.
  • Applicants must be prepared for regular field missions within Syria, which may involve challenging working conditions.

How could this fit your current goals and plans?

This position is an excellent opportunity for a Syrian heritage professional to apply their technical expertise to high-impact, internationally recognized conservation projects. It provides a platform to work directly with UNESCO on the recovery of World Heritage sites, offering significant professional development in international heritage management, project coordination, and technical supervision within a humanitarian and cultural recovery context.

Our take

This role is highly suitable for experienced architects or conservation specialists who are Syrian nationals and are passionate about the preservation of Syria's cultural heritage. It is less suitable for those seeking permanent, non-field-based roles or those without specific experience in architectural conservation and restoration.

Ready to apply?

Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.

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