Artifacts Manager in Oregon Career Overview

As an Artifacts Manager, you play a vital role in the preservation and curation of items that hold historical, cultural, or scientific value. Your responsibilities encompass a range of activities aimed at ensuring these artifacts are maintained, cataloged, and displayed in a manner that reflects their significance.

  • You oversee the collection management processes, ensuring that items are properly documented and cared for.
  • You work in various settings, such as museums, cultural institutions, and historical societies, contributing to public education and engagement through exhibits and programs.
  • Collaboration with historians, conservators, and other professionals is essential to foster a comprehensive understanding of the artifacts' context and significance.
  • You are responsible for maintaining optimal environmental conditions for artifact preservation, including temperature, humidity, and light exposure, mitigating risks of deterioration.
  • You may also engage in community outreach to promote awareness and appreciation of the collections under your stewardship.
  • Your insight assists in the development of policies related to collection acquisition, deaccessioning, and ethical stewardship, ensuring that artifacts are handled responsibly.
  • Participation in the digital transformation of collections, including cataloging items for online access, is increasingly important, enabling broader public engagement.

Through these duties, you contribute to fostering a deeper understanding of history and culture, making it accessible and relevant to current and future generations.

Artifacts Manager Salary in Oregon

Annual Median: $52,330
Hourly Median: $25.16

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become an Artifacts Manager in Oregon

To become an Artifacts Manager, you are typically required to have a strong educational background related to the management and preservation of historical items. Below are the relevant degree programs that can prepare you for this career:

  • Archaeology: This degree involves the study of past human behavior through material remains. Coursework often includes excavation techniques, cultural resource management, and data analysis, providing a foundational understanding that is essential for managing artifacts.

  • Archives and Archival Administration: This program focuses on the management of records and historical documents. You will learn about archival theory, the organization of collections, and preservation methods necessary for maintaining valuable historical materials.

  • Historic Preservation and Conservation: A degree in this field emphasizes the protection and conservation of historical structures and artifacts. You will gain knowledge in restoration techniques, materials conservation, and legal frameworks governing the preservation of cultural heritage.

  • Museum Studies: This interdisciplinary degree covers various aspects of museum operation and management, including curation, exhibit design, and education. Courses will provide insight into artifact handling, preservation practices, and the ethical responsibilities of managing collections.

In addition to obtaining a relevant degree, gaining practical experience through internships or volunteer work in museums, archives, or similar institutions is highly beneficial for your career development as an Artifacts Manager.

Best Schools to become a Artifacts Manager in Oregon 2024

#1Baltimore City

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD

In-State Tuition:$60,480
Out-of-State Tuition:$60,480
Admission Rate:7%
Graduation Rate:94%
Total Enrollment:31,275
#2Suffolk County

Simmons University

Boston, MA

In-State Tuition:$43,060
Out-of-State Tuition:$43,060
Admission Rate:76%
Graduation Rate:74%
Total Enrollment:5,710
#3Middlesex County

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA

In-State Tuition:$52,659
Out-of-State Tuition:$52,659
Admission Rate:3%
Graduation Rate:98%
Total Enrollment:30,631
#4East Baton Rouge Parish

Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College

Baton Rouge, LA

In-State Tuition:$8,038
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,038
Admission Rate:76%
Graduation Rate:70%
Total Enrollment:37,348
#5District of Columbia

George Washington University

Washington, DC

In-State Tuition:$60,856
Out-of-State Tuition:$60,856
Admission Rate:49%
Graduation Rate:85%
Total Enrollment:25,939
#6New York County

CUNY Graduate School and University Center

New York, NY

In-State Tuition:$6,930
Out-of-State Tuition:$14,880
Admission Rate:24%
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:8,733
Artifacts Manager Job Description:
  • Administer collections, such as artwork, collectibles, historic items, or scientific specimens of museums or other institutions.
  • May conduct instructional, research, or public service activities of institution.

Artifacts Manager Required Skills and Competencies in Oregon

  • Attention to Detail: You must possess a keen eye for detail to accurately assess and catalog artifacts, ensuring that all information is recorded correctly.

  • Analytical Skills: Strong analytical abilities help you evaluate the significance of artifacts, interpret historical data, and make informed decisions regarding their preservation and display.

  • Organizational Skills: Effective organizational skills are essential for managing collections. You should be able to maintain accurate records, categorize items, and keep track of their locations and conditions.

  • Communication Skills: Both verbal and written communication skills are vital. You'll need to articulate your findings clearly, engage with stakeholders, and prepare reports or documentation about the artifacts.

  • Research Skills: Proficiency in research methodologies enables you to investigate the provenance of artifacts, understand their historical context, and gather relevant information for educational purposes.

  • Project Management: You should have the ability to manage projects efficiently, overseeing the conservation, exhibition, or curation of artifacts from beginning to end, ensuring timelines and budgets are met.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Strong interpersonal skills allow you to collaborate effectively with colleagues, stakeholders, and other professionals in the field, facilitating teamwork in preservation and exhibitions.

  • Technical Skills: Familiarity with museum management software, cataloging systems, and digital documentation tools is increasingly important for maintaining comprehensive records and managing collections.

  • Knowledge of Preservation Techniques: A solid understanding of the best practices in conservation and preservation of artifacts ensures that you can implement appropriate methods to protect and maintain the integrity of the collection.

  • Cultural Sensitivity: You should approach artifacts from diverse cultures with respect and awareness, recognizing their significance and the importance of accurate representation.

  • Creativity: As an artifacts manager, creative thinking is needed for curating exhibits that effectively convey the story and context of the artifacts to the public.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You will frequently encounter challenges that require innovative solutions, whether related to preservation, display logistics, or resource allocation.

Job Duties for Artifacts Managers

  • Develop and maintain an institution's registration, cataloging, and basic record-keeping systems, using computer databases.

  • Plan and conduct special research projects in area of interest or expertise.

  • Plan and organize the acquisition, storage, and exhibition of collections and related materials, including the selection of exhibition themes and designs, and develop or install exhibit materials.

Technologies and Skills Used by Artifacts Managers

Data base user interface and query software

  • Database software
  • Microsoft Access

Graphics or photo imaging software

  • Adobe Illustrator
  • Adobe Photoshop

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

  • Reading work related information
  • Talking to others

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Artifacts Manager in Oregon

  • The demand for Artifacts Managers is stable, primarily due to the growing interest in cultural heritage preservation and increased public engagement with history and archaeology. Many institutions are recognizing the importance of properly managing and curating their collections.

  • Growth potential in this field is promising. An increasing number of museums, galleries, cultural institutions, and historical societies are establishing or expanding their collections, which necessitates skilled professionals to manage and preserve these artifacts.

  • Geographical hotspots in Oregon for Artifacts Managers include:

    • Portland: As Oregon's largest city, Portland is home to several major museums and cultural institutions, including the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) and the Portland Art Museum, creating numerous opportunities in artifact management.
    • Eugene: With its vibrant arts scene and institutions like the University of Oregon’s Museum of Natural and Cultural History, Eugene offers various roles for professionals focused on the management of historical and natural artifacts.
    • Corvallis: The presence of Oregon State University provides opportunities for Artifacts Managers in academic settings, particularly in managing research collections and university museums.
    • Salem: The state capital is home to the Oregon State Museum of Science and Industry and other historical sites, creating a local need for artifacts specialists to manage state collections and artifacts.

  • Many organizations in Oregon are increasingly collaborating with local communities to preserve indigenous artifacts and history, further expanding the job market for Artifacts Managers who can navigate the complexities of cultural sensitivity and collaboration.

  • The rise of digital media and technology in the curation and management of artifacts presents new roles and opportunities for Artifacts Managers. Institutions are seeking innovative ways to digitize collections, engage the public, and streamline inventory processes.

By understanding these dynamics within Oregon's job market, you can better position yourself for opportunities as an Artifacts Manager in the state.

Top Related Careers to Artifacts Manager 2024

Exhibition Coordinator
Museum Education Specialist
Heritage Curator
Cultural Resources Director

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Artifacts Manager in Oregon

  • American Alliance of Museums (AAM)
    AAM provides resources on museum practices, accreditation, and professional development for museum and artifact management.
    Website: www.aam-us.org

  • National Park Service (NPS) Museum Management Program
    Offers guidance and training on managing museum collections, including artifacts, best practices, and policies.
    Website: www.nps.gov/museum

  • Society for American Archeology (SAA)
    A professional organization dedicated to archaeology, providing resources on artifact management and curation.
    Website: www.saa.org

  • Council of American Maritime Museums (CAMM)
    Focuses on maritime museum practices, including the management of maritime artifacts.
    Website: www.camm.org

  • The International Council of Museums (ICOM)
    An international organization promoting the management of museums and heritage, has publications and resources on artifact management practices.
    Website: www.icom.museum

  • Museum Financial Information (MFI)
    A database that provides financial information and resources specifically for museums and non-profit organizations, which is valuable for managing an artifacts collection.
    Website: www.museumfinance.org

  • American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (AIC)
    Offers guidelines and resources for the conservation and preservation of artifacts.
    Website: www.conservation-us.org

  • Oregon Museums Association (OMA)
    A local organization offering support, resources, and networking opportunities for museum professionals in Oregon.
    Website: www.oregonmuseums.org

  • Association of Registrars and Collections Specialists (ARCS)
    Provides resources and professional development opportunities for registrars and collections specialists involved in artifact management.
    Website: www.arcsinfo.org

  • Artifact Assessment Guide by the National Park Service
    A practical guide to assessing and managing artifacts within collections.
    PDF Link: Artifact Assessment Guide

These resources can help you stay informed about current practices, continuing education opportunities, and networking in the field of artifacts management.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Artifacts Manager in Oregon

  • What are the primary responsibilities of an Artifacts Manager?
    As an Artifacts Manager, your main duties include overseeing the collection, preservation, and exhibition of artifacts in museums, galleries, and other institutions. You will also manage cataloging, conservation efforts, and public education initiatives related to the artifacts.

  • What education is required to become an Artifacts Manager?
    Typically, a bachelor’s degree in museum studies, archaeology, anthropology, history, or a related field is required. Many positions also prefer or require a master’s degree, especially for higher-level roles.

  • What skills are essential for an Artifacts Manager?
    Key skills include strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and a thorough understanding of conservation techniques and museum practices. Technical skills in database management and familiarity with artifact categorization are also important.

  • Do I need to have experience in a museum to become an Artifacts Manager?
    Yes, most employers seek candidates with relevant experience in museum settings, such as internships or entry-level positions. Gaining hands-on experience in artifact handling, conservation, and public engagement is beneficial.

  • Is certification necessary for this career?
    While certification is not always required, it can enhance your qualifications. Organizations like the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) and the Society of American Archivists (SAA) offer credentials that can be advantageous in the job market.

  • What is the job outlook for Artifacts Managers in Oregon?
    The job outlook for Artifacts Managers can vary, but overall employment for museum professionals is projected to grow at a steady pace. Factors such as funding for cultural institutions and public interest in history can influence opportunities in Oregon.

  • How much can I expect to earn as an Artifacts Manager?
    Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the institution's size. In Oregon, the average salary for an Artifacts Manager typically ranges from $45,000 to $75,000 per year.

  • What types of institutions hire Artifacts Managers?
    Artifacts Managers can find employment in museums, historical societies, cultural heritage organizations, galleries, universities, and governmental agencies that manage archaeological sites.

  • What are some career advancement opportunities for Artifacts Managers?
    With experience, you can advance to senior management positions, such as Curator or Director of Collections. Continuing education and networking within the field can also open doors to more specialized roles in preservation or conservation.

  • How can I keep up with trends and developments in the field of artifacts management?
    You can stay informed by participating in professional organizations, attending conferences, enrolling in relevant courses, and subscribing to industry publications focused on museum studies and artifact preservation.