About the Role
The Department of Basic Education is seeking a dedicated Deputy Director: Preservation Management Service in Pretoria. This role is pivotal in ensuring that South Africa’s rich heritage and historical records are preserved for future generations. By developing and implementing effective preservation operational plans and digitisation strategies, you will play a critical role in safeguarding our national heritage, making it accessible and engaging for all South Africans.
In this dynamic position, you will coordinate various conservation and restoration activities for heritage assets, heraldic artwork, records, and collections. Your work will not only uphold the standards of preservation and conservation but also actively contribute to the community’s cultural identity. With Pretoria as your base, you will collaborate with other professionals in the field, enhancing the public service sector’s mission to protect and promote our nation’s history.
About the Department
The Department of Basic Education serves as the backbone of South Africa’s educational framework, focusing on providing quality education and preserving our cultural heritage. This department is committed to fostering an environment where historical records and artifacts are managed with care and respect, ensuring that they remain a vital part of our society. Working here means being part of a team that values education, heritage, and the principles of public service.
What You’ll Do
- Develop and implement preservation operational, conservation, and restoration plans.
- Coordinate conservation and restoration activities for heritage assets and records.
- Establish preservation and conservation priorities in line with legislative standards.
- Ensure compliance with preservation and conservation policies and international best practices.
- Manage digitisation projects to enhance access to historical records.
- Maintain preservation databases and information management systems.
- Assess the condition of materials and recommend appropriate conservation interventions.
- Monitor environmental conditions affecting preservation, including temperature and humidity.
- Conduct research on emerging preservation technologies and methodologies.
- Facilitate awareness and training initiatives on preservation standards and practices.
What You’ll Need
- Senior Certificate/Matric Certificate/Grade 12 or equivalent qualification.
- Minimum three-year National Diploma (NQF level 6) or Degree (NQF level 7) in Archival Studies, Conservation Studies, or a related field.
- 3-5 years of relevant experience, with at least 3 years at an Assistant Director level in a preservation or archival environment.
- Strong understanding of public service regulations and heritage preservation frameworks.
- Knowledge of collection management, storage, and environmental control standards.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a strong client orientation.
- Proficiency in project management and computer literacy.
How to Apply
Submit your application via post to the address provided below.
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Requirements
Senior Certificate/Matric Certificate /Grade 12 Certificate or equivalent qualification; Minimum three-year National Diploma (NQF level 6) / Degree NQF level 7) as recognised by SAQA in Archival Studies/ Library and Information Science/ Conservation Studies/ Archives and Records Management/ Heritage and Cultural Sciences/ Museum Studies/ History or any relevant qualification; 3-5 years relevant experience, at least 3 years at an Assistant Director level in preservation of records, conservation, or any archival environment; Knowledge of Public Service Regulations; Knowledge and understanding of preservation and conservation principles and practices; Knowledge and understanding of heritage preservation frameworks; Knowledge and understanding of collection management, storage, and environmental control standards; Knowledge records and archives management principles; Knowledgeable in the Public Finance Management Act with an understanding of relevant policies, prescripts, and legislation; Knowledge of policy development and analysis processes; Client Orientation and Customer Focus; Presentation skills; Good communication and 98 Interpersonal relations; Computer Literacy; Project Management Skills; Ability to work under pressureJob Duties
Develop and Implement preservation operational plans, conservation and restoration plans and digitisation strategies.; Coordinate conservation and restoration activities for heritage assets, heraldic artwork, records, and collections; Establish preservation and conservation priorities;; Ensure compliance with preservation and conservation legislation, standards, policies and international best practices; Coordinate digitisation projects to improve access, and safeguard historical records; Maintain preservation databases and information management systems; Assess the condition of materials and determine appropriate conservation interventions; Ensure preventative conservation measures are in place to minimise deterioration; Monitor conservation projects and ensure quality standards are maintained; Manage and Implement care for collections and security measures of strongrooms- Maintain storage and handling procedures for preserved materials; Monitor environmental conditions affecting preservation, including temperature, humidity, light, and pests; Ensure appropriate storage facilities and preservation equipment are maintained; Coordinate disaster preparedness and recovery plans for heritage assets and collections; Conduct regular risk assessments to identify threats to preserved materials; Implement measures to protect assets from physical, environmental, and operational risks; Conduct research on emerging preservation technologies, methodologies preservation policies, standards and guidelines-Develop, review and implement preservation, conservation and digitisation policies, standards, procedures and guidelines; Develop standard and best practices to enhance service delivery; Provide advice and guidance on preservation, conservation and digitisation matters; Facilitate awareness and training initiatives on preservation standards and practices; Manage the sub directorate and its performance
