UNESCO Associate Project Officer (Culture) Job 2026 in Paris: P-2 Position Paying Approximately US$87,095 Annually
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is inviting applications for an Associate Project Officer (Culture) to support African countries in protecting, conserving and managing cultural and natural heritage. Based in Paris, France, the position offers an opportunity to contribute to international heritage conservation initiatives and strengthen Africa’s representation on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The position is a one-year project appointment, with the possibility of extension subject to funding availability and satisfactory performance. The approximate annual starting salary is US$87,095, alongside applicable staff benefits.
Application deadline: 27 October 2026.
About the UNESCO Associate Project Officer Position
The successful candidate will work within the Africa Unit of UNESCO’s World Heritage Centre, which supports African States Parties in identifying, protecting and preserving heritage sites under the 1972 World Heritage Convention.
The role focuses on implementing projects that strengthen national capacities to prepare World Heritage nominations, improve conservation and management practices, and advance the recognition of modern heritage in Africa.
The officer will coordinate with national authorities, heritage professionals, donors, UNESCO partners, academic institutions and other stakeholders across the continent.
Key Responsibilities
The Associate Project Officer will support the planning, coordination and implementation of heritage conservation projects funded by Oman, Japan and India, alongside initiatives focused on modern heritage in Africa.
Responsibilities include:
- Coordinating project planning, implementation, monitoring, reporting and budget follow-up.
- Supporting workshops, training sessions, expert missions and knowledge-sharing activities.
- Assisting African countries with Tentative Lists, Preliminary Assessments, World Heritage nominations and heritage management frameworks.
- Strengthening the technical and institutional capacities of national heritage authorities and professionals.
- Supporting the development of conceptual frameworks and operational tools for modern heritage conservation.
- Preparing contracts, technical reports, financial reports, monitoring tools and communication materials.
- Liaising with national authorities, donors, experts and UNESCO partners.
- Supporting resource mobilisation and International Assistance requests related to heritage conservation.
The position also promotes the participation of women, young people and local communities in heritage identification, conservation and management.
Eligibility Requirements
Education
Applicants must hold an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent), preferably in culture, heritage conservation and management, humanities, international relations, political science or a related field.
Professional experience
A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in cultural or natural heritage conservation or a related field is required. At least one year of international-level experience is preferred.
Experience in project management and heritage conservation is also required.
Languages
Applicants must have excellent knowledge of either English or French, both written and spoken, and good knowledge of the other language.
Additional advantages
Experience within the United Nations system or another international development organisation is desirable. Knowledge of the World Heritage Convention and UNESCO’s culture-related conventions and programmes is also an advantage.
Candidates should demonstrate strong organisational, communication, planning and teamwork skills, as well as the ability to work effectively with people from different cultural and national backgrounds.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers an approximate annual starting salary of US$87,095.
Depending on eligibility and applicable conditions, UNESCO staff benefits may include:
- 30 days of annual leave.
- Family allowances.
- Medical insurance.
- Pension plan.
- Other applicable staff entitlements.
The appointment is subject to UNESCO’s employment rules, medical clearance and the relevant visa requirements for international professional positions.
Job Details
- Organisation: UNESCO
- Position: Associate Project Officer (Culture)
- Position number: CLT/PA 127
- Grade: P-2
- Sector: Culture
- Duty station: Paris, France
- Contract type: Project appointment
- Duration: One year, with possible extension
- Recruitment: Internal and external candidates
- Annual starting salary: Approximately US$87,095
- Application deadline: 27 October 2026, midnight Paris time
How to Apply
Interested candidates must complete the online application and provide accurate information before the deadline. The selection process may include written assessments, pre-recorded video interviews, panel interviews and reference checks.
Applicants should prepare their academic qualifications, employment history and supporting information before submitting their applications, as modifications cannot be made after submission.
Review the vacancy details and confirm the position number CLT/PA 127 before applying.
Deadline: 27 October 2026.
UNESCO does not charge application or recruitment fees. Candidates from underrepresented Member States, as well as qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds and persons with disabilities, are encouraged to apply.
Project Officer /Project Officer
