Cultural Resource Manager in Illinois Career Overview
As a Cultural Resource Manager, you play a vital role in preserving and protecting historical and cultural assets. Your work involves a blend of research, advocacy, and regulatory compliance, ensuring that valuable heritage is maintained for future generations. Here’s a closer look at the responsibilities and significance of your position:
Identification and Preservation: You are responsible for identifying cultural resources, such as archaeological sites, historic buildings, and ethnographic sites, and implementing strategies to preserve them.
Regulatory Compliance: Your role often requires you to navigate federal, state, and local laws regarding cultural resources. You ensure that projects comply with regulations, such as the National Historic Preservation Act and the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency guidelines.
Collaboration: You work in tandem with various stakeholders, including government agencies, community groups, and private developers. Your collaboration is essential for fostering community engagement and promoting awareness of cultural heritage.
Research and Documentation: Conducting research and maintaining accurate records is a core part of your job. You gather data on historical and cultural assets and contribute to documentation efforts to inform preservation strategies.
Public Education: You often engage in outreach activities to educate the public about the importance of cultural resources. Your efforts help foster a sense of community pride and understanding.
Project Management: Managing projects related to cultural resource assessments and preservation initiatives is a significant part of your role. You oversee timelines, budgets, and coordination of team members and resources.
In performing these responsibilities, you contribute significantly to the preservation of cultural identity and heritage in Illinois, ensuring that both contemporary and historical perspectives are honored.
Cultural Resource Manager Salary in Illinois
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Cultural Resource Manager in Illinois
To become a Cultural Resource Manager, you typically need a relevant degree and specialized training. The following college degree programs are particularly applicable:
Cultural Resource Management and Policy Analysis: This program provides an understanding of the management and preservation of cultural resources, focusing on policy development and analysis in relation to cultural heritage.
Anthropology: A degree in anthropology offers insights into human cultures, behaviors, and societies, which is essential for understanding cultural resources from various perspectives.
Archeology: Pursuing a degree in archeology equips you with skills in site excavation, artifact analysis, and cultural history, preparing you for the practical aspects of managing archeological sites.
Historic Preservation and Conservation: This program focuses on the techniques and principles required to preserve historical structures and artifacts, emphasizing conservation methods and policies.
History: A history degree provides a broad understanding of historical events, contexts, and narratives, which is vital in recognizing and protecting significant cultural resources.
In addition to your degree, internships or fieldwork experiences related to cultural resource management can be beneficial for your professional development.
Best Schools to become a Cultural Resource Manager in Illinois 2024
Southern New Hampshire University
Liberty University
University of California-Los Angeles
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
American Public University System
Pace University
- Study the origin, development, and behavior of human beings.
- May study the way of life, language, or physical characteristics of people in various parts of the world.
- May engage in systematic recovery and examination of material evidence, such as tools or pottery remaining from past human cultures, in order to determine the history, customs, and living habits of earlier civilizations.
Cultural Resource Manager Required Skills and Competencies in Illinois
Cultural Awareness: You should possess a deep understanding of the local culture, history, and traditions of the communities you serve. This awareness enables you to effectively advocate for and protect cultural resources.
Research Skills: Strong research abilities are essential for analyzing historical documents, artifacts, and other resources. You must efficiently gather and synthesize information from a variety of sources.
Communication Skills: You need excellent verbal and written communication skills to clearly present findings, write reports, and engage with stakeholders, including government officials, community members, and other professionals.
Project Management: Effective project management skills are important for planning, organizing, and executing cultural resource management projects. You should be adept at managing timelines, budgets, and team dynamics.
Analytical and Critical Thinking: You will often analyze complex data and assess the significance of various cultural resources. Strong analytical skills allow you to evaluate situations from multiple perspectives and make informed decisions.
Interpersonal Skills: As a Cultural Resource Manager, you will work with diverse groups, including indigenous communities, local governments, and non-profits. Building and maintaining relationships is key to successful collaboration.
Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with relevant laws and regulations, such as the National Historic Preservation Act and state legislation, is necessary for guiding compliance processes and advocating for cultural resources.
Grant Writing and Fundraising: Competence in grant writing and securing funding is often necessary to support cultural initiatives. You should be able to create compelling proposals that communicate the value of cultural resource projects.
Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in various software tools, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS), project management applications, and research databases, supports data analysis and presentation.
Strategic Planning: You must demonstrate the ability to develop long-term plans that align with community needs and priorities, while also addressing funding and resource constraints.
Problem-Solving Skills: You are likely to encounter challenges that require innovative solutions. Strong problem-solving skills will help you navigate obstacles and find effective strategies for protecting cultural resources.
Fieldwork Skills: Physical capability and comfort in conducting fieldwork, including site evaluations and artifact assessments, are often necessary for hands-on management of cultural resources.
Public Engagement: Skills in outreach and education are valuable for fostering public interest and involvement in cultural resource management initiatives. Engaging the community helps in creating advocates and preserving local heritage.
Job Duties for Cultural Resource Managers
Collect information and make judgments through observation, interviews, and review of documents.
Research, survey, or assess sites of past societies and cultures in search of answers to specific research questions.
Write about and present research findings for a variety of specialized and general audiences.
Analytical or scientific software
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- The MathWorks MATLAB
Geographic information system
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- Geographic information system GIS software
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Reading work related information
- Writing things for co-workers or customers
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 Cultural Resource Manager in Illinois
The job market for Cultural Resource Managers in Illinois is characterized by a steady demand, reflecting an increasing emphasis on preserving cultural heritage and managing historical sites. Here are key aspects of the current job market you should consider:
Demand: As communities in Illinois continue to grow and develop, the need for Cultural Resource Managers has risen to ensure that cultural assets are preserved amidst urban expansion. This demand is driven by various sectors, including federal, state, and local government agencies, as well as private organizations involved in construction, environmental management, and cultural tourism.
Growth Potential: The profession is experiencing growth because of the heightened awareness of cultural preservation issues. Regulatory requirements related to historical preservation and environmental assessments have created a need for professionals who can manage and oversee compliance. Additionally, as public interest in heritage tourism continues to expand, positions related to cultural resource management are expected to increase further.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Chicago Metro Area: As the largest urban center in Illinois, Chicago presents numerous opportunities in historic preservation initiatives, cultural resource surveys, and museum sector roles. The city’s diverse architectural landscape and rich history draw attention to preservation efforts.
- Springfield: The state capital is home to several historic sites and state-managed cultural institutions, resulting in job opportunities in public history, management of historical parks, and local tourism initiatives.
- Southern Illinois: This region, with its rich Native American heritage and various historical landmarks, has emergent opportunities in cultural resource surveys and collaboration with local tribes and heritage organizations.
- Northwest Illinois: Areas around Galena and nearby heritage sites have seen a surge in interest in local history, leading to job openings in heritage conservation and tourism development.
Sector Opportunities: Cultural Resource Managers can find opportunities across a variety of sectors, including:
- Government Agencies: Engage in policy development and compliance monitoring regarding historical sites.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Work with museums, historical societies, and other nonprofits focused on cultural preservation.
- Consulting Firms: Provide expertise in archaeological assessments and cultural studies for compliance and planning.
- Academic Institutions: Participate in research and education, contributing to cultural resource management curricula.
Overall, the market for Cultural Resource Managers in Illinois is vibrant, with various pathways available due to the state's rich history and commitment to preserving its cultural resources.
Top Related Careers to Cultural Resource Manager 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Cultural Resource Manager in Illinois
National Park Service (NPS)
- The NPS provides resources on cultural resource management, including guidelines, policies, and best practices for managing historical properties and cultural landscapes.
- Website: nps.gov
Society for American Archaeology (SAA)
- The SAA offers research, publications, and advocacy information related to archaeological practices, including the management of cultural resources.
- Website: saa.org
**State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) - Illinois
- The SHPO in Illinois assists with the preservation of the state's cultural heritage. This office provides guidance, grants, and resources for cultural resource management.
- Website: illinois.gov/dnr/historic
Cultural Resources Management (CRM)
- CRM is a peer-reviewed journal focusing on cultural resource management practices, policies, and research findings.
- Website: crmjournal.com
American Cultural Resources Association (ACRA)
- ACRA provides advocacy, training, and resources dedicated to professionals involved in cultural resource management.
- Website: acra-crm.org
Archaeological Institute of America (AIA)
- AIA offers resources related to archaeology and cultural heritage preservation, including reports, guidelines, and educational materials for cultural resource managers.
- Website: archaeological.org
National Trust for Historic Preservation
- This organization focuses on saving places, offering tools and resources for cultural resource managers interested in preservation efforts.
- Website: savingplaces.org
Illinois Association of Historic Preservation Commissions (IAHPC)
- The IAHPC provides training, networking opportunities, and resources for local commissions involved in historic preservation and cultural resource management in Illinois.
- Website: iahpc.org
Publications and Reports
- Many relevant publications and reports can be found in academic databases such as JSTOR, Google Scholar, and the Digital Public Library of America. These resources can provide valuable research and case studies in cultural resource management.
- Websites:
Utilizing these resources will enhance your understanding and competency as a Cultural Resource Manager in Illinois.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cultural Resource Manager in Illinois
What is a Cultural Resource Manager?
A Cultural Resource Manager (CRM) is a professional responsible for identifying, evaluating, and preserving cultural resources, such as archaeological sites, historic buildings, and heritage landscapes. This role often involves compliance with federal and state laws, public outreach, and research.What are the educational requirements to become a Cultural Resource Manager in Illinois?
Typically, a bachelor's degree in archaeology, anthropology, history, or a related field is the minimum requirement. Many positions prefer candidates with a master's degree, particularly for roles in research, project management, or consulting.Is certification important for Cultural Resource Managers?
While certification is not strictly required, obtaining credentials such as those from the Register of Professional Archaeologists (RPA) or other relevant certifications can enhance your credibility and job prospects.What skills are essential for a Cultural Resource Manager?
Key skills include:- Strong written and verbal communication
- Analytical and critical thinking
- Project management
- Knowledge of applicable laws and regulations
- Basic fieldwork techniques and methodologies
What types of employers hire Cultural Resource Managers?
You can find opportunities in various settings, including:- Government agencies (federal, state, local)
- Non-profit organizations
- Consulting firms
- Educational institutions
- Museums and cultural heritage organizations
What is the typical salary range for Cultural Resource Managers in Illinois?
Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the specific employer. Generally, you can expect a range from $50,000 to over $90,000 annually, with higher salaries for managers and those in senior positions.What does a typical day look like for a Cultural Resource Manager?
Your day may involve conducting field surveys, reviewing project proposals, preparing reports, consulting with teams, and engaging with the public or stakeholders regarding cultural resource issues.Are there job opportunities specific to certain regions in Illinois?
Yes, opportunities may be more abundant in urban areas like Chicago, where major development projects can require cultural assessments, as well as along significant historical routes and near archaeological sites.What is the job outlook for Cultural Resource Managers?
The job outlook is generally positive, driven by increased awareness of cultural heritage and the need for compliance with preservation laws. However, competition may be strong, particularly for roles in desirable locations.How can I gain experience in this field?
Consider internships, volunteer opportunities, or entry-level positions in archaeology or historical preservation. Networking with professionals through conferences and professional organizations can also be beneficial for gaining insights and opportunities.