Archaeological Geomatics Lead at Museum of West African Art

Job Overview:

The Edo Museum of West African Art (EMOWAA) is an independent non-profit organisation in Nigeria set up to drive research and execute high-value cultural, arts and heritage initiatives in West Africa. Our evolving research partners include major institutions such as the National Commission of Museums and Monuments (NCMM), the British Museum (BM), and the Deutsche Archaeological Institute (DAI).

EMOWAA’s dynamic research programme will initially focus on the historic core of pre-colonial Benin City, the capital of the Benin Empire and one of the most important archaeological sites in West Africa. Fieldwork began early 2022 with a series of targeted excavations and geospatial mapping of ancient earthwork structures. The next phase of work with the British Museum will begin in October 2022 ahead of the construction of its new heritage research and archive centre – the Pavilion.

EMOWAA is looking for a geomatics lead who will be responsible for the collection and management of digital geospatial data during these excavations and its fieldwork and research within Benin City in the longer term. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in the use of digital geospatial recording techniques during archaeological fieldwork in West Africa, Nigeria and preferably Benin (see details below). (S)he will require a high degree of technical knowledge about relevant hardware and software, flexibility, initiative and be an excellent team worker. This role will involve working closely with international archaeologists and, where relevant, acquiring additional skills and experience of different and new technologies and approaches.

Key Responsibilities:

Data Collection

• Working closely with the EMOWAA archaeology lead and BM colleagues, develop a structured approach to the collection, processing and use of geospatial data during the forthcoming archaeological investigations at the EMOWAA Pavilion;
• Gain an understanding of the available equipment and softwares and assess whether different/additional approaches are required;
• Develop a structured data workflow for site data;
• Develop a clear plan with regards to the medium and long-term management of site geospatial data;
• Agree appropriate deliverables with the EMOWAA/BM archaeological leads;
• Management and development of geospatial databases
• Responsible for on-site geomatics (DGPS/total station, drone, photogrammetry, Lidar)
• Management, maintenance and upkeep of geomatics equipment

Analysis

• Undertake any necessary processing of the data in order to make it usable by the archaeological team when undertaking interpretation and preparing site reports;
• Provide site drawings/plans/sections as required by the archaeological team based on data collected on site;
• Undertake relevant analysis of digital data (eg the creation of 3D photogrammetric models);
• Support the development of reporting of the excavations by the development of digital illustrations.

Management and Storage

• Working with EMOWAA’s digital team, agree formats and locations for the short and long-term storage of geospatial data

Experience & Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in archaeology or related field, preferably combined with a degree, experience or training in the use of geospatial technology
• At least 3 years’ relevant experience in archaeological fieldwork, preferably including aspects of geospatial data management
• Ability to collaborate, learn quickly and work independently
• Proficiency in relevant surveying, 3D and GIS softwares
• English fluency (required)

Career Growth & Development:

EMOWAA has a strong culture of constant learning and invests in developing people. This post will be supported by global experts and institutions across EMOWAA’s wide network of partners and affiliates.

By joining EMOWAA team, you’ll have an opportunity to shape a growing organization, work on groundbreaking initiatives and build a rewarding long-term career. It is anticipated that the Geomatics Lead Specialist will build on their experience on the 2022 excavations to contribute to the longer term growth and development of the archaeological team at the EMOWAA Pavilion. A successful specialist will be able to represent EMOWAA at conferences and will take place in international training/exchange programmes.

Terms and Conditions:

• Reporting Line: Head of Archaeology & Heritage Management
• Duty Station: Benin, Ibadan or Lagos
• Compensation & Benefits: Competitive, subject to credentials
• Start Date: September 2022, multi-year contract subject to 6-month probation period