Cultural Resource Manager in Maryland Career Overview
In the role of a Cultural Resource Manager, your primary responsibility is to protect and manage cultural resources, which include historical sites, artifacts, and landscapes. You play a vital role in ensuring that these resources are preserved for future generations while enabling responsible development and land use. Your work often involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies, developers, and historians.
Key responsibilities typically include:
- Conducting field surveys and assessments to identify cultural resources within a designated area.
- Evaluating the significance of these resources based on established criteria and guidelines.
- Ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations concerning preservation efforts.
- Facilitating educational programs and outreach to promote awareness of cultural heritage.
- Preparing reports and documentation that support preservation efforts and policy adherence.
- Engaging in public consultation processes to address community concerns regarding development projects.
The importance of your role in cultural resource management lies in balancing development needs with the preservation of heritage. You help maintain the integrity of the cultural landscape, contributing to community identity and historical continuity. Your efforts not only protect significant sites but also support local tourism and education, thereby enriching the cultural fabric of Maryland and beyond.
Cultural Resource Manager Salary in Maryland
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 Maryland
To become a Cultural Resource Manager in Maryland, you will typically need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. The following degree programs are particularly beneficial:
Cultural Resource Management and Policy Analysis: This program focuses on understanding the regulatory framework and policies that govern the management of cultural resources. It equips you with skills to address cultural heritage issues while balancing development needs.
Anthropology: A degree in anthropology provides a broad understanding of human societies, cultures, and their developments. This background is essential for understanding cultural contexts, heritage, and historic significance.
Archeology: Pursuing this degree will involve studying ancient and historical human activity through excavation and analysis of artifacts. It prepares you to conduct fieldwork and apply methodological approaches to cultural resource management.
Historic Preservation and Conservation: This program focuses on the theories and practices involved in preserving historical sites and artifacts. It provides both theoretical knowledge and practical experience related to conserving cultural heritage.
History: A degree in history gives you in-depth knowledge of past events and contexts that shape contemporary culture. This foundation is valuable for identifying and interpreting cultural resources properly.
In addition to a bachelor's degree, many positions may require a master's degree in one of these fields or in a closely related area, particularly for advanced roles in cultural resource management. Moreover, field experience through internships or volunteer opportunities can enhance your practical understanding and networking potential within the field.
Best Schools to become a Cultural Resource Manager in Maryland 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 Maryland
Research Skills: You must be able to conduct thorough research to identify and document cultural resources, which may involve reviewing historical records, conducting field surveys, and engaging in primary source research.
Analytical Skills: The ability to analyze various types of data and information is essential. You should evaluate the significance of cultural resources and their relevance to local, state, and national narratives.
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary for effectively conveying findings, writing reports, and presenting to diverse audiences, including stakeholders, government officials, and community members.
Project Management: You’ll need to excel at managing multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring that they are completed on time and within budget while collaborating with team members and stakeholders.
Interpersonal Skills: Building relationships with a variety of people is key. You will need to work with tribal leaders, historians, architects, archaeologists, and the public, requiring diplomacy and strong negotiation skills.
Problem-Solving Abilities: You should be proficient in identifying potential issues related to cultural resource management and developing effective, practical solutions to these challenges.
Attention to Detail: Precision is critical in documenting and preserving cultural resources. A keen eye for detail will help you ensure that all findings and projects meet regulatory and ethical standards.
Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and respecting the cultural backgrounds of the communities and resources you work with will aid in promoting inclusivity and fostering cooperation.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with various technology tools is important, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for mapping, database management software for documentation, and digital photography for recording findings.
Regulatory Knowledge: You should have a thorough understanding of federal, state, and local regulations concerning cultural resource management, including compliance standards and the National Historic Preservation Act.
Fieldwork Skills: Comfort and capability in conducting fieldwork, which may involve archaeological digging, surface surveys, and site assessments, is essential for practical engagement with cultural resources.
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 Maryland
The job market for Cultural Resource Managers in Maryland is evolving, driven by the state's rich historical and cultural assets. As a Cultural Resource Manager, you can expect a range of career opportunities fueled by various forces:
Demand for Preservation: There is a strong focus on historical preservation due to the increasing awareness of cultural heritage. Government agencies, non-profits, and private firms are all investing resources into maintaining and interpreting cultural resources. This creates steady demand for professionals in this field.
Growth Potential: The growth potential for Cultural Resource Managers is promising. As development continues to encroach on historical sites, there is a continuous need for compliance with federal, state, and local preservation laws. Opportunities are likely to increase as projects requiring cultural assessments grow larger and more complex.
Geographical Hotspots: Certain areas in Maryland are particularly conducive to careers in cultural resource management:
- Annapolis: With its historical significance as the state capital, the demand for cultural resource professionals is strong, particularly in government and consultancy roles.
- Baltimore: As Maryland's largest city, Baltimore has various cultural institutions and projects requiring cultural resource management, including museums, historical societies, and urban redevelopment initiatives.
- Montgomery County: This area is experiencing notable growth in population and development, leading to a corresponding need for cultural resource management to address preservation concerns amid urban expansion.
- Prince George's County: With its rich Native American history and numerous historical sites, there is a requirement for professionals who can navigate cultural preservation alongside development.
Sector Opportunities: You can find job opportunities in various sectors, including:
- Government agencies that are mandated to protect and manage historical sites.
- Non-profit organizations focusing on cultural preservation and education.
- Consulting firms specializing in historic preservation and resource management.
- Educational institutions offering research and outreach related to cultural resources.
The evolving landscape of historical preservation and cultural resource management in Maryland presents a wealth of opportunities for growth and engagement with the community.
Top Related Careers to Cultural Resource Manager 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Cultural Resource Manager in Maryland
National Park Service (NPS) - Cultural Resources
The NPS provides various resources on cultural resource management, including guidelines, publications, and training opportunities.
National Park Service - Cultural ResourcesAdvisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP)
This independent agency promotes the preservation of historical sites and acts as a resource for both professionals and the public.
Advisory Council on Historic PreservationSociety for American Archaeology (SAA)
SAA focuses on archaeology and offers publications, resources, and networking opportunities for cultural resource managers.
Society for American ArchaeologyAmerican Cultural Resources Association (ACRA)
A nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of cultural resource management professionals. They provide workshops, guidelines, and advocacy.
American Cultural Resources AssociationMaryland Historical Trust
This state agency provides resources for historic preservation, including grant opportunities and information on state regulations related to cultural resources.
Maryland Historical TrustNational Trust for Historic Preservation
This private nonprofit organization provides resources for historic preservation, including funding opportunities and educational materials.
National Trust for Historic PreservationPublic Archaeology Program at Maryland’s Archaeological Conservation Laboratory
This program focuses on public engagement and education related to archaeology in Maryland.
Public Archaeology ProgramCultural Resource Management: A Handbook for Historic Preservation
This book covers the fundamentals of cultural resource management, practical strategies, and case studies.
ISBN: 978-1138557222Historic Preservation Planning
This journal publishes research and case studies related to historic preservation policy and practice.
Historic Preservation Planning JournalAmerican Alliance of Museums
A network that supports museums and cultural organizations, offering resources on management practices and preservation strategies.
American Alliance of Museums
These resources can enhance your knowledge and provide support as you pursue a career in cultural resource management in Maryland.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cultural Resource Manager in Maryland
What is the role of a Cultural Resource Manager?
A Cultural Resource Manager (CRM) is responsible for identifying, preserving, and managing cultural heritage resources, including archaeological sites, historic buildings, and artifacts. This role often involves assessing the impact of development projects on these resources and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations.What qualifications are needed to become a Cultural Resource Manager?
Generally, a bachelor's degree in archaeology, anthropology, history, or a related field is required. Many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree. Additionally, having fieldwork experience, proficiency in research methods, and knowledge of historic preservation laws are advantageous.What skills are essential for a Cultural Resource Manager?
Key skills include strong analytical and research abilities, written and verbal communication skills, project management experience, and proficiency in survey methodologies. Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and cultural heritage legislation is also beneficial.Is certification necessary for Cultural Resource Managers?
Certification is not universally required but can enhance your qualifications. The Register of Professional Archaeologists (RPA) offers credentials that are recognized in the field, indicating a commitment to professional standards.What are the job prospects for Cultural Resource Managers in Maryland?
Job prospects can be favorable in Maryland, given the state's rich history and numerous cultural heritage sites. Opportunities may exist in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, consulting firms, and educational institutions.What types of projects might a Cultural Resource Manager work on?
You may work on a variety of projects, including environmental impact assessments, preservation planning for historical sites, archaeological surveys for construction developments, and public education initiatives about cultural heritage.How does one gain experience in Cultural Resource Management?
Gaining experience can involve internships, volunteering on archaeological digs, or working with local historic preservation organizations. Networking with professionals in the field and participating in workshops can also be beneficial.What is the average salary for a Cultural Resource Manager in Maryland?
Salaries can vary widely based on experience, education, and specific job responsibilities. As of the latest data, the average salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, with more experienced managers earning higher salaries.Are there specific regulations governing Cultural Resource Management in Maryland?
Yes, in Maryland, cultural resource management is governed by state and federal laws, including the National Historic Preservation Act and the Maryland Historical Trust's guidelines. Understanding these regulations is crucial for compliance and effective project management.How can I keep up with developments in Cultural Resource Management?
Staying informed can involve joining professional organizations, subscribing to industry publications, attending conferences, and participating in ongoing education opportunities. Networking with other professionals can also be a valuable resource for current trends and best practices.