Heritage Information Manager in New York Career Overview
As a Heritage Information Manager, your role involves overseeing the management and preservation of historical and cultural information within heritage institutions such as museums, archives, and cultural organizations. Your responsibilities encompass a range of activities centered on ensuring access to heritage resources, reflecting a commitment to maintaining the integrity and relevance of cultural narratives.
Key aspects of your career include:
Information Management: You play a vital role in organizing, cataloging, and maintaining collections of historical artifacts, documents, and digital resources. This organization is essential for accessibility and preservation.
Curation and Interpretation: Collaborating with historians, curators, and educators, you assist in developing exhibits and educational programs that engage the public and promote historical understanding.
Research and Documentation: You engage in extensive research to enrich the knowledge base of heritage collections, ensuring that detailed contextual information is available for both academic and public use.
Conservation Planning: Your expertise contributes to the development of conservation strategies that protect and maintain artifacts and documents for future generations.
Community Engagement: Establishing connections with local communities and stakeholders is integral to your role. This engagement helps to foster appreciation for cultural heritage and encourages collaborative projects.
Policy Development: You may participate in creating policies that guide the ethical management, preservation, and access to heritage materials, reflecting contemporary societal values and legal considerations.
Your work as a Heritage Information Manager not only informs and educates the public but also safeguards cultural identity and heritage, making it an essential part of preserving society’s shared history.
Heritage Information Manager Salary in New York
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Heritage Information Manager in New York
To become a Heritage Information Manager, you will typically need a combination of educational qualifications and specialized training. The following degree programs are most relevant for this career path:
Archives and Archival Administration: A graduate degree in this field will provide you with the theoretical foundations and practical skills necessary for the management and preservation of archival materials. Coursework often includes topics such as recordkeeping, archival theory, and digital preservation.
Historic Preservation and Conservation: Pursuing a degree in historic preservation teaches you how to protect and conserve historic sites and structures. This program generally covers elements of architectural history, restoration techniques, and sustainability in preservation efforts.
Library and Information Science: A Master’s degree in Library and Information Science equips you with knowledge about information management, organization, and access. In this program, you will learn about cataloging, metadata, and the use of technology in information retrieval, all of which are valuable skills in heritage management.
Museum Studies: A degree in Museum Studies focuses on the management of museums and cultural institutions. This program includes coursework on curation, exhibition design, museum education, and the legal aspects of collections management.
History: A Bachelor's or Master's degree in History provides a solid grounding in historical research, analysis, and writing. This background is essential for understanding the historical context and significance of heritage materials and resources.
In addition to formal degree programs, gaining practical experience through internships or volunteer work in relevant organizations such as museums, archives, or historic sites is highly beneficial for your development as a Heritage Information Manager.
Best Schools to become a Heritage Information Manager in New York 2024
San Jose State University
University of North Texas
Texas Woman's University
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Emporia State University
Simmons University
- Appraise, edit, and direct safekeeping of permanent records and historically valuable documents.
- Participate in research activities based on archival materials.
Heritage Information Manager Required Skills and Competencies in New York
Research Skills: You must possess a strong ability to conduct thorough research, utilizing various sources to gather information on heritage sites, cultural artifacts, and historical data.
Analytical Skills: The ability to analyze information critically is essential. You should be able to interpret data, assess the significance of heritage resources, and suggest viable management strategies.
Communication Skills: You need to communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally. This includes conveying information to stakeholders, preparing reports, and delivering presentations to diverse audiences.
Project Management: Managing multiple projects simultaneously is key. You should be skilled in planning, executing, and monitoring projects related to heritage preservation and information dissemination.
Digital Literacy: Familiarity with digital tools and technologies is important. Proficiency in databases, content management systems, and digital archiving methods will aid in managing heritage information effectively.
Attention to Detail: A meticulous eye for detail helps in maintaining accurate records, ensuring that heritage information is captured correctly and presented without errors.
Cultural Awareness: You need to have a strong understanding of various cultures and their historical contexts. This knowledge is vital for respectful and effective management of heritage properties and information.
Collaboration Skills: You should be able to work well with a variety of stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, historians, and conservationists, fostering partnerships for effective heritage management.
Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to identify challenges and develop practical solutions is essential in managing heritage information and addressing issues related to preservation and access.
Organizational Skills: Strong organizational abilities are necessary to maintain records, manage databases, and keep track of project timelines and deliverables.
Technical Skills: Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and archival software can be beneficial for mapping, analyzing, and preserving heritage information.
Advocacy Skills: You need to be comfortable advocating for heritage preservation and communicating its importance to the public, stakeholders, and decision-makers.
Ethical Understanding: Awareness of ethical considerations in heritage management, including issues related to ownership, cultural sensitivity, and representation, is vital for responsible practice in the field.
Job Duties for Heritage Information Managers
Organize archival records and develop classification systems to facilitate access to archival materials.
Prepare archival records, such as document descriptions, to allow easy access to information.
Provide reference services and assistance for users needing archival materials.
Data base user interface and query software
- FileMaker Pro
- Microsoft Access
Graphics or photo imaging software
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Photoshop
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Reading work related information
- Writing things for co-workers or customers
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Heritage Information Manager in New York
The job market for Heritage Information Managers in New York is dynamic, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of cultural heritage and the role of information management in preserving it. Key aspects of the market include:
Demand: As organizations increasingly prioritize the digitization and preservation of cultural heritage materials, the demand for Heritage Information Managers is on the rise. Institutions such as museums, historical societies, and libraries are seeking professionals who can effectively manage historical collections and digital archives.
Growth Potential: The role of Heritage Information Manager is evolving, with many organizations expanding their services to include online access to collections and interactive exhibits. This growth in digital engagement opportunities presents a promising trajectory for career development, with positions expected to increase as more institutions invest in heritage conservation and information management technologies.
Geographical Hotspots:
- New York City: As a cultural hub, New York City is home to numerous museums, archives, and cultural institutions. Notable organizations such as the Museum of Modern Art, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and various historical societies constantly seek skilled professionals.
- Albany: The state capital is home to many governmental and non-profit organizations focused on historical preservation, providing additional job opportunities for professionals in the field.
- Buffalo and Rochester: These cities have a rich historical context and are increasingly recognizing the value of cultural heritage, leading to growth in local museums and archives.
Sector Diversity: Opportunities are available across various sectors, including public institutions, non-profit organizations, and private companies specializing in heritage and archival services. This sector diversity allows for varied career paths within the discipline, catering to different interests and specialties.
By staying informed about emerging trends in heritage management and networking within cultural institutions, you can position yourself effectively to take advantage of the opportunities present in New York's vibrant job market.
Top Related Careers to Heritage Information Manager 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Heritage Information Manager in New York
American Alliance of Museums (AAM)
- Provides resources for museum professionals, including best practices for heritage management and information professionals.
- Website: www.aam-us.org
Society for American Archaeology (SAA)
- Offers resources related to archaeological heritage management and preservation strategies.
- Website: www.saa.org
National Park Service (NPS)
- Features guidelines, standards, and resources for managing cultural heritage and historic preservation.
- Website: www.nps.gov
International Council on Archives (ICA)
- Focuses on the management of archives and provides resources for enhancing information management practices.
- Website: www.ica.org
Heritage Preservation
- An organization dedicated to preserving the heritage of the United States, offering resources and advocacy tools for heritage managers.
- Website: www.heritagepreservation.org
American Cultural Resources Association (ACRA)
- A professional organization that provides information related to cultural resource management, including legal and legislative developments.
- Website: www.acra-crm.org
Museum Association of New York (MANY)
- Offers professional development resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy for heritage professionals in New York.
- Website: www.manyonline.org
Digital Public Library of America (DPLA)
- A platform that aggregates information from libraries, archives, and museums, useful for heritage information management and public accessibility.
- Website: www.dp.la
National Trust for Historic Preservation
- Provides guidance on historic preservation practices and policies, with various publications available for further reading.
- Website: www.savingplaces.org
The American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (AIC)
- Offers resources on conservation ethics and best practices essential for heritage information managers.
- Website: www.conservation-us.org
Library of Congress
- A vast repository of digital collections and resources relevant to heritage management and information science.
- Website: www.loc.gov
Utilizing these resources can enhance your knowledge and skills as a Heritage Information Manager, providing access to industry standards, networking opportunities, and cutting-edge practices in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Heritage Information Manager in New York
What is a Heritage Information Manager?
A Heritage Information Manager is responsible for the organization, preservation, and dissemination of information related to cultural heritage. They manage databases, archival materials, and other resources that pertain to historical sites, artifacts, and traditions.What qualifications do I need to become a Heritage Information Manager?
Typically, you will need a bachelor’s degree in fields such as history, archaeology, museum studies, information science, or a related discipline. Many positions may also require a master’s degree or specialized training in heritage management or digital preservation.What skills are essential for a Heritage Information Manager?
Key skills include strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, project management, communication, and familiarity with database management systems. Knowledge of digital archiving techniques and heritage conservation practices is also important.What are the typical job responsibilities of a Heritage Information Manager?
Responsibilities include overseeing the documentation and cataloging of heritage resources, managing digital and physical archives, developing preservation strategies, and facilitating access to information for researchers and the public.In which types of organizations can I work as a Heritage Information Manager?
You can find job opportunities in museums, cultural institutions, historical societies, governmental agencies, non-profits focused on heritage preservation, and academic institutions.What is the job outlook for Heritage Information Managers?
The job outlook is generally positive, as there is a growing emphasis on the preservation of cultural heritage. However, job availability can vary depending on funding, geographic location, and specific sectors.Is experience required for entry-level positions?
While some entry-level positions may require minimal experience, internships or volunteer work in related fields can be advantageous. Gaining practical experience while studying can enhance your employability.What is the typical salary range for a Heritage Information Manager in New York?
Salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, education, and the specific organization. On average, you might expect a salary range starting from $50,000 to $85,000 annually.Are there opportunities for professional development in this field?
Yes, various organizations offer workshops, conferences, and continuing education programs. Engaging in professional organizations can also provide networking opportunities and resources for career advancement.What role does technology play in heritage information management?
Technology plays a significant role in digitizing archives, managing databases, and creating online platforms for public access to information. Familiarity with software tools for data management and digital archiving is increasingly important.