Cultural Resource Manager in Kansas Career Overview
As a Cultural Resource Manager, you hold a significant role in preserving, protecting, and managing cultural heritage resources. Your work centers around understanding and maintaining historical sites, artifacts, and practices that contribute to a community's identity and history. This career plays a vital part in balancing development and cultural preservation, ensuring that important historical resources are not lost in the face of change.
Key responsibilities typically include:
- Conducting surveys and assessments of cultural resources to determine their significance and condition.
- Working with government agencies, tribal nations, and local communities to promote awareness of cultural heritage.
- Developing management plans that lay out preservation strategies while considering future development projects.
- Guiding compliance with federal, state, and local laws related to the preservation of cultural resources.
- Collaborating with a range of stakeholders, including archaeologists, historians, and public officials, to advocate for and facilitate resource preservation efforts.
Your role as a Cultural Resource Manager is essential, as you help ensure that future generations have access to the heritage and culture that define their communities. You contribute not only to academic and scientific discourse but also to the public’s understanding and appreciation of history and culture. Your work can also enhance tourism, education, and community pride, making a lasting impact beyond the immediate tasks at hand.
Required Education To Become a Cultural Resource Manager in Kansas
To pursue a career as a Cultural Resource Manager in Kansas, you will need specific educational qualifications that emphasize understanding cultural resources and managing their preservation. Consider the following degree programs:
Cultural Resource Management and Policy Analysis: This degree will provide you with foundational knowledge in managing cultural assets and understanding the policies and regulations affecting their preservation.
Anthropology: A degree in anthropology equips you with a broad understanding of human societies, cultures, and their development, which is essential for analyzing cultural resources.
Archeology: Pursuing an archeology degree will offer you specialized training in the study of past human behavior through material remains, critical for managing archaeological sites.
Historic Preservation and Conservation: This program focuses on the strategies and methods for preserving historic sites and artifacts, making it highly relevant to cultural resource management.
History: A degree in history will provide you with insights into past events, trends, and contexts that are vital for interpreting and managing cultural resources.
It's important to ensure that your education includes hands-on experiences or internships, as these can significantly enhance your understanding of cultural resource management practices.
Best Schools to become a Cultural Resource Manager in Kansas 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 Kansas
Research Skills: You need to conduct thorough investigations involving historical, archaeological, and cultural data. The ability to gather and analyze information from various sources is essential.
Analytical Thinking: Effective problem-solving and decision-making require strong analytical skills. You should be able to assess data critically to develop strategies for the conservation and management of cultural resources.
Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are necessary. You will communicate findings and recommendations clearly to stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, and the general public.
Project Management: You should be proficient in planning, executing, and overseeing projects related to cultural resource management. This includes budgeting, scheduling, and coordinating with team members and external partners.
Cultural Sensitivity: A deep understanding and respect for diverse cultures and histories is important. You must communicate effectively with local communities and stakeholders while considering their values and viewpoints.
Collaboration and Teamwork: Working well with others is key. You will often collaborate with a variety of professionals, including archaeologists, historians, environmental planners, and government officials.
Technical Skills: Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), data management software, and other technical tools is valuable for documenting and analyzing cultural resources.
Attention to Detail: You should possess a meticulous eye for detail, enabling you to accurately assess and document cultural resources, and ensure compliance with preservation standards.
Regulatory Knowledge: A strong understanding of federal, state, and local laws regarding cultural resource management will guide your work, including compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act and other relevant legislation.
Public Engagement: You should have the ability to engage with the public effectively, including conducting outreach, public education initiatives, and community involvement in preservation efforts.
Adaptability: The ability to adjust to changing environments, project scopes, and community needs is essential, as cultural resource management can often involve unexpected challenges.
Report Writing: Proficiency in creating detailed reports that clearly document research findings, methodologies, and recommendations is essential for informing stakeholders and supporting decision-making processes.
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 Kansas
In Kansas, the job market for Cultural Resource Managers is seeing positive trends, largely driven by an increased emphasis on preserving historical sites and cultural heritage. Here are key points relevant to the current landscape:
Demand for Cultural Resource Managers: There is a steadily growing demand for Cultural Resource Managers in both private and public sectors. Government agencies at the state and federal levels, as well as nonprofit organizations, actively seek professionals who can navigate compliance with regulations like the National Historic Preservation Act.
Growth Potential: The field is experiencing moderate growth as the importance of cultural heritage conservation gains recognition. Educational programs focused on heritage management and archeology have led to an influx of qualified candidates entering the job market, further fueling opportunities.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Urban Centers: Cities like Kansas City and Wichita are significant hubs for cultural resource management roles, primarily due to their larger populations and greater concentration of historical sites.
- Rural Areas: There is also an increasing need for Cultural Resource Managers in rural communities. Many projects aimed at restoring or preserving historical landmarks and landscapes require on-the-ground expertise.
- Specific Regions: Areas rich in Native American history and early settler sites, such as along the Flint Hills and in regions near Fort Riley, often provide unique opportunities for Cultural Resource Managers as conservation efforts ramp up.
Emerging Sectors: With the rise of heritage tourism, Cultural Resource Managers may find opportunities in collaboration with local governments and tourism agencies to promote history-related attractions. This can include grant-funded projects aimed at enhancing visitor experiences while preserving cultural integrity.
Networking and Professional Development: Engaging with local and national preservation organizations can expand your professional network and highlight emerging opportunities. Attending conferences and participating in workshops can enhance your visibility in the profession and potentially lead to job openings.
Overall, the job market for Cultural Resource Managers in Kansas appears promising, with growing recognition of the importance of heritage conservation and an increasing number of projects requiring skilled professionals in the field.
Top Related Careers to Cultural Resource Manager 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Cultural Resource Manager in Kansas
National Park Service (NPS)
Provides guidelines and standards for cultural resource management in the United States, along with educational resources and publications.
National Park Service - Cultural ResourcesSociety for American Archaeology (SAA)
Offers resources such as professional guidelines, publications, and networking opportunities for professionals in archaeology and cultural resource management.
Society for American ArchaeologyKansas Historical Society
A valuable resource for local history, archaeology, and heritage preservation. The society provides information on cultural resource grants, surveys, and preservation efforts in Kansas.
Kansas Historical SocietyAdvisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP)
Focuses on the preservation of significant cultural and historic properties, providing best practices and policy guidance for Cultural Resource Managers.
Advisory Council on Historic PreservationAmerican Cultural Resources Association (ACRA)
Represents cultural resource firms and provides information on best practices, guidelines, and educational resources pertaining to cultural resource management.
American Cultural Resources AssociationToyne, L. and Moore, J. (2006). "Cultural Resource Management in Kansas: A Practical Guide"
This guide provides insights into the unique aspects of managing cultural resources within the state, including relevant laws and practices. Available through local university libraries or interlibrary loan.Kansas State University - Department of History
Offers programs focused on public history, which includes elements of cultural resource management. The department's website provides access to publications and research papers.
Kansas State University - History DepartmentPreservation Kansas
A program dedicated to advocating for the preservation of Kansas’s historical and cultural resources. They offer workshops and resources designed for Cultural Resource Managers.
Preservation KansasNational Trust for Historic Preservation
Provides a wealth of resources on preservation best practices, grant opportunities, and advocacy for cultural resource management.
National Trust for Historic PreservationThe Archaeological Institute of America (AIA)
Promotes archaeological understanding and offers resources that can aid cultural resource managers in their work.
Archaeological Institute of America
These resources will support your advancement in the field of cultural resource management, providing essential tools and information to enhance your knowledge and skills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cultural Resource Manager in Kansas
What is the primary role of a Cultural Resource Manager?
A Cultural Resource Manager (CRM) is responsible for identifying, preserving, and managing cultural heritage resources. This includes archaeological sites, historic buildings, and cultural landscapes to ensure they are protected for future generations.What qualifications do I need to become a Cultural Resource Manager in Kansas?
Typically, a bachelor's degree in archaeology, anthropology, historic preservation, or a related field is required. Many positions also prefer or require a master’s degree along with relevant field experience, especially for roles in government or large organizations.What skills are important for a Cultural Resource Manager?
Key skills include strong analytical and research abilities, project management skills, proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), excellent writing and communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups.What types of employers hire Cultural Resource Managers in Kansas?
Common employers include government agencies, nonprofit organizations, cultural institutions, and private consulting firms. Essential work can also be found in academia and educational institutions that focus on heritage studies.What is the job outlook for Cultural Resource Managers in Kansas?
The job outlook for Cultural Resource Managers is generally positive, with an increasing recognition of the importance of preserving cultural heritage. Positions are particularly available in sectors related to urban development, federal and state compliance, and archaeological research.Do Cultural Resource Managers need to travel for their jobs?
Yes, travel is often required, especially for fieldwork or conducting assessments at remote sites. The amount of travel can vary significantly based on the specific job and project requirements.What professional certifications exist for Cultural Resource Managers?
While not mandatory, certifications such as those offered by the Register of Professional Archaeologists (RPA) can enhance your qualifications and credibility within the field.What is the average salary for a Cultural Resource Manager in Kansas?
Salaries can vary widely based on education, experience, and location within the state. As of the latest data, the average salary ranges from $50,000 to $85,000 annually, with more experienced managers earning higher salaries.What are the typical work environments for Cultural Resource Managers?
Work environments can include office settings for research and report writing, field sites for hands-on archaeological work, and meetings with stakeholders, government agencies, or the public.How can I gain experience in cultural resource management?
You can gain experience through internships, volunteer opportunities, part-time jobs in related fields, and participation in archaeological digs or preservation projects. Networking with professionals in the field can also lead to mentorship opportunities.What are the ethical considerations in cultural resource management?
Ethical considerations include respecting the rights and values of indigenous communities, ensuring transparency in managing cultural resources, and adhering to applicable laws and regulations in preservation efforts.