Assistant Manager/ Manager (Heritage Policy and Research)

[What the role is]

The Heritage Policy and Research (HPR) Division of NHB conducts research and documentation on archaeology, built heritage and intangible cultural heritage, as well as assessment of heritage buildings, sites and structures. The division works closely with government planning agencies to factor in heritage considerations into the planning processes as well as facilitate consultations and engagement with non-government organisations and heritage interest groups. In addition, the division develops policies and initiatives to safeguard Singapore’s archaeological heritage and foster greater interest in our nation’s history.

[What you will be working on]

We are looking for an officer to oversee research, planning and promotion of archaeology and built heritage of Singapore. The officer will get to:

• Coordinate and manage research projects relating to archaeology and built heritage in Singapore, including conduct of in-house research and managing of outsourced research studies;

• Review and formulate policies, legislations and guidelines relating to the conduct of archaeology in Singapore;

• Work with government agencies on development planning related to sites of archaeological interest;

• Develop initiatives and programmes to promote greater appreciation and awareness of Singapore’s archaeology and pre-colonial history;

• Work with partners, government agencies, research institutions and/or tertiary institutions to plan and implement archaeology initiatives;

• Engage industry practitioners and stakeholders on heritage-related issues.

[What we are looking for]

• Background in archaeology, history, anthropology, geography, or related discipline;

• Preferably at least 3 years of relevant working experience, in the culture and heritage sector or related sectors such as policy and planning;

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills;

• Efficient, organised and highly motivated with the ability to multi-task and work well in a team;

• Excellent interpersonal skills, able to interact with and manage diverse stakeholders and partners; and,

• Possess strong organisation and time management skills and be versatile at adapting to varying needs of the projects.

• Knowledge in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications will be advantageous  

Key Functional Competencies

i. Policy and Planning: Ability to understand and balance sector priorities, stakeholder interests, trends and trade-offs, and apply archaeology-specific knowledge and insights to inform policy development

ii. Management and Implementation: Ability to implement and operationalise workstreams in collaboration with government agencies and partners, to advance initiatives to safeguard archaeological heritage.  

Successful candidates will be offered a 2-year contract in the first instance.