Documentalist Job at UNESCO (Geneva)

Job Description

Since 2016, the UNESCO International Bureau of Education (IBE) has been engaged in the digitization of its historical collections. Phase 1 of this initiative successfully digitized the IBE Historical Archives covering the period 1925–1969. These materials are now accessible through the IBE Digital Library, Historical Collections of the IBE, developed in collaboration with TIND, a spin-off of CERN’s Invenio Library Management Software. Building on this achievement, the IBE Documentation Center aims to continue the cataloguing and digitization of its Historical Archives for the period 1969–2000. This initiative seeks to ensure the proper organization, accessibility, and long-term preservation of these resources in line with international archival and documentation standards. In parallel, the IBE is in the process of relocating to new premises. This transition requires the systematic preparation, reorganization, and secure transfer of archival materials, closely linked to the cataloguing and digitization activities.

Job Responsibility

Support the organization, classification, and cataloguing of archival records in accordance with international standards (e.g., ISAD(G), MARC 21, Dublin Core)
Update inventory lists of uncatalogued materials
Prepare, organize, and label physical and digital records for processing
Handle, sort, and physically organize archival materials, including retrieving, moving, and re-shelving boxes and files as required
Support the preparation and organization of archival materials in view of their relocation, ensuring proper tracking and documentation
Assist in identifying and processing records eligible for disposal in line with retention policies
Support coordination with relevant stakeholders regarding records disposal
Participate in the physical handling, relocation, and preparation of records for storage, transfer, or destruction
Assist in overseeing the secure physical destruction of records where applicable
Provide support to researchers (on-site and online) by facilitating access to archival materials
Contribute to improving the usability and accessibility of catalogued and digitized collections
Support the identification of high-priority materials for digitization based on historical value, demand, and preservation needs
Contribute to strategies that enhance access and discoverability of digitized content
Liaise with internal and external stakeholders as required
Contribute to reporting, documentation, and knowledge-sharing activities
Monitor progress of assigned tasks and ensure timely delivery of outputs
Perform other related duties as required

Requirements

Advanced university degree in Library and Information Science, Archival Studies, Documentation, or a related field
Minimum of 3–5 years of relevant professional experience in archival management, cataloguing, or documentation
Demonstrated knowledge of international cataloguing and archival standards (e.g., ISAD(G), MARC 21, Dublin Core)
Experience with digital repositories and library management systems is an asset (e.g., TIND, Invenio, or similar)
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Excellent written and spoken English
knowledge of French is an asset.

Nice to have

Experience with digital repositories and library management systems (e.g., TIND, Invenio, or similar)
Knowledge of French

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