CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: PROJECT OFFICER - USAKOS RAILWAY WORKERS’ COLLECTION PROJECT

PROJECT OFFICER - USAKOS RAILWAY WORKERS’ COLLECTION PROJECT

The Museums Association of Namibia (MAN) is a non-governmental organisation mandated to support and encourage the development of museums throughout Namibia. In collaboration with the Bern History Museum (BHM) in Switzerland, MAN would like to invite qualified individuals to apply for the position of Project Officer, to be based in Usakos.

Position: Project Officer x1

Contract Duration: 12 months (01 September 2025 - 31 August 2026)

Project: Usakos Railway Workers’ Collection

Time Commitment: 10 months, 3 days per week (Monday to Wednesday)

Remuneration: N$10,000.00 per month, the total cost to the company

Location: Usakos

ABOUT THE POSITION

We are seeking a dedicated and culturally sensitive Project Officer to support the coordination of an international partnership between the BHM and MAN. A key component of this role is the planning and delivery of a workshop taking place in Namibia from 27 October to 7 November 2025, during which physical presence is essential. The Project Officer will also be responsible for conducting oral history interviews with members of the Usakos community. In particular, elders from diverse Namibian communities. These interviews will contribute directly to shaping the interpretive narrative of The Usakos Railway Workers’ Collection before its exhibition. Finally, the Project Officer will play a central role in organising and documenting regular meetings with Swiss partners, ensuring clear communication and effective collaboration throughout the project.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

• Workshop & Community Engagement: Coordinate the planning of a workshop in Usakos in collaboration with local stakeholders, while fostering inclusive community participation throughout the project.
• Oral Histories & Cultural Documentation: Conduct and organise translations for oral history interviews with elders, capturing community knowledge related to the Usakos railway workers’ collection.
• International Collaboration: Facilitate regular meetings with Swiss partners, including scheduling, conducting sessions, and documenting minutes.
• Exhibition & Research Support: Contribute to the development and implementation of the exhibition through research, narrative input, layout suggestions, and visitor engagement strategies.
• Project Administration & Representation: Maintain detailed records, prepare reports, participate in training activities, and represent the project at public and professional events.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Citizenship: Applicants must be Namibian citizens.
• Language Skills: Fluency in English and at least one Namibian language is essential
• Education: A Bachelor’s degree in History, Heritage Studies, Anthropology, Museum Studies, Sociology, or a related discipline.
• Experience:
  - Proven experience in oral history is essential.
  - Relevant experience in community-based heritage projects will be considered
• Core Competencies:
  - Strong organisational and administrative skills, including accurate record-keeping and report writing.
  - Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, particularly in engaging respectfully with elders and local communities.
  - Ability to conduct, transcribe, and document oral history interviews with precision and cultural sensitivity.
  - Demonstrated ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple responsibilities.
• Motivation: A genuine passion for heritage preservation, community engagement, and cultural documentation.
• Mobility: Willingness to travel as required for the project
• Preference: Priority will be given to current or former residents of Usakos who meet the above requirements.

HOW TO APPLY

Complete this application form by no later than Sunday, 24 August 2025, at midnight.

Click here to download the PDF version of the call.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not hear from us within two weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.