Digital Archivist Job Vacancy in Lamu, Kenya – Digital Archiving and Cultural Preservation

Job Description

Position: Digital Archivist

Company: Digital Heritage Institute Kenya

Location: Lamu, Kenya

Experience: 3-5 years

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science, Information Technology, or Cultural Heritage Management

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Digital Archiving and Cultural Preservation

Department: Digital Archives and Cultural Documentation

Salary: 80,000 – 120,000 SSP

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Digital Heritage Institute Kenya is a pioneering organization dedicated to preserving Kenya’s cultural and historical legacy through innovative digital archiving solutions. Operating across East Africa, the institute partners with local communities, museums, and academic institutions to digitize artifacts, oral histories, and indigenous knowledge systems. With a focus on Lamu’s rich Swahili heritage, the institute bridges traditional practices with modern technology to ensure sustainable preservation for future generations.

Job Overview

The Digital Archivist will lead efforts to catalog, digitize, and manage historical records, photographs, and cultural artifacts unique to Lamu and coastal Kenya. This role combines technical expertise in digital tools with a passion for cultural preservation, ensuring accessible and secure archives for researchers, educators, and the public. Learn more about Kenya Jobs and Jobs in Kenya at our platform.

Key Responsibilities

• Digitize and organize historical documents, photographs, and audio-visual materials.
• Develop metadata standards and maintain digital asset management systems.
• Collaborate with local elders and cultural experts to document oral histories.
• Ensure compliance with international digital preservation best practices.
• Train community members in basic archiving techniques and software tools.

Required Skills

• Proficiency in digital archiving software (e.g., Archivists’ Toolkit, CONTENTdm).
• Strong understanding of cultural heritage preservation principles.
• Excellent project management and time management skills.
• Fluency in Swahili and English.
• Ability to work independently and in cross-disciplinary teams.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science, Information Technology, or Cultural Heritage Management. A Master’s Degree in a related field is an advantage.

Experience

3-5 years of experience in digital archiving, museum curation, or cultural documentation. Experience working in East African heritage projects is preferred.

Salary

80,000 – 120,000 SSP per month, depending on experience.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage for the candidate and immediate family.
• Annual professional development allowance (KES 50,000).
• Relocation assistance for candidates moving to Lamu.
• Flexible work hours and remote work options.

Training

• Onboarding training in the institute’s digital archiving systems.
• Workshops on Swahili cultural heritage and ethical documentation practices.
• Certification courses in digital preservation standards.

Working Environment

The role involves a mix of office work at the institute’s Lamu headquarters and fieldwork in coastal communities. Occasional travel to Nairobi for stakeholder meetings and training sessions may be required. The environment emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and respect for cultural diversity.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a CV, cover letter, and three professional references to the institute’s careers portal. Shortlisted applicants will undergo a skills assessment and interview with the Digital Preservation Committee.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Digital Heritage Institute Kenya is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.