TERMS OF REFERENCE

Background

The Humanitarian Development Program (HDP) is a nonprofit and independent NGO in Yemen. It focuses on improving the quality of Yemeni people’s life through well-planned and comprehensive projects in WASH, education, Food security & livelihood Shelter, CCCM, Protection, health and related activities that strengthen underserved communities in all parts of Yemen with the flexibility to respond rapidly to emergencies.

HDP uniquely believes in the power of community, and the strength of partners and donors to make a positive impact in the lives of Yemeni people HDP uniquely believes in the power of community, and the strength of partners and donors to make a positive impact in the lives of Yemeni people. Humanitarian Development Program (HDP) places human dignity at the center of its relief and development work. At the heart of the Program’s efforts to impact poverty and social justice. Vulnerable adults and children are particularly at risk of sexual exploitation and abuse. HDP defines the program’s commitment to the protection from sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA) of vulnerable adults, involving HDP Employees and Related Personnel. In recognition of the special vulnerability of children, also HDP affirms commitment to the welfare and protection from sexual exploitation and all forms of abuse of children, involving HDP employees and related personnel.

The YEHCY "Youth Employment through Heritage and Culture in Yemen" project primarily focuses on urban rehabilitation and cultural programming, addressing urgent humanitarian needs while restoring social cohesion and promoting local ownership of endangered cultural heritage.

The project combines available technical resources, trained youth workers, and modern heritage rehabilitation methodologies used by UNESCO "Cash for Work: Enhancing Livelihood Opportunities for Urban Youth in Yemen". Participatory cash-for-work programs in heritage restoration will provide sustainable income opportunities for young beneficiaries, while the cultural incubation program focuses on gender mainstreaming and capacity building.

By placing youth at the heart of all activities and supporting community-based initiatives, the Youth Employment through Heritage and Culture in Yemen project — implemented by the Humanitarian Development Program (HDP) in partnership with UNESCO — aims to harness the potential for positive change, foster peace, and raise awareness about the role of youth in protecting heritage and advancing creative industries for sustainable development.

Job Purpose:

The Conservation Expert is responsible for guiding the preservation, restoration, and adaptive reuse of heritage buildings and sites. The role ensures that all conservation work aligns with recognized international standards, respects historical authenticity, and integrates local materials and traditional techniques where appropriate. The Conservation Expert provides technical leadership in restoration design, implementation, and quality assurance. The Conservation Expert primary involvement will be during the inventory stage, contributing to the documentation, condition assessment, and categorization of heritage assets to inform future conservation planning.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Under the direct supervision of the Project Manager and in close collaboration with the Archaeologist, GIS Expert, and Consultant, the Conservation Expert will undertake the following tasks:

4. Core Competencies:  

• Demonstrates integrity by embodying HDP’s values and ethical standards.
• Actively promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of HDP.
• Shows sensitivity and adaptability across cultures, genders, religions, races, nationalities, and age groups.
• Treats all individuals fairly and equitably, without favoritism.

5. Functional Competencies:

• Technical Expertise in Heritage Conservation – Demonstrates deep understanding of conservation theory, traditional materials, and restoration methodologies.
• Quality Assurance and Attention to Detail – Maintains high technical standards and ensures the integrity and authenticity of heritage assets are preserved.
• Problem Solving and Adaptability – Identifies technical challenges and proposes practical, context-sensitive solutions, especially in fragile environments.
• Planning and Time Management – Prioritizes tasks, meets deadlines, and ensures smooth workflow in multi-site, multi-phase restoration projects.
• Collaboration and Communication – Works effectively with engineers, archaeologists, artisans, communities, and local authorities to deliver shared goals.
• Ethical and Cultural Sensitivity – Respects local knowledge, traditions, and cultural values during all conservation interventions.
• Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing – Supports training of local workers and youth in heritage conservation practices. Commitment to ethical and inclusive professional conduct.

6. Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture, Architectural Conservation, Civil Engineering, or a related field with specialization in heritage preservation.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in heritage conservation or restoration, including hands-on field experience in historical structures.
• Strong knowledge of traditional building materials, construction methods, and conservation techniques.
• Familiarity with international heritage preservation standards and charters (e.g., UNESCO, ICCROM, ICOMOS).
• Experience working with multidisciplinary teams including archaeologists, engineers, and community stakeholders.
• Proven ability to assess structural and material conditions and develop conservation strategies accordingly.
• Excellent documentation and reporting skills, including use of technical tools and photographic records.
• Previous experience in fragile or post-conflict environments is an asset.
• Fluency in Arabic; working knowledge of English is desirable.