Cultural Resource Manager in Utah Career Overview
As a Cultural Resource Manager, your role centers on the preservation and management of cultural resources, including archaeological sites, historical landmarks, and ethnographic artifacts. You will engage with a variety of stakeholders, such as government agencies, private developers, and local communities, to ensure that cultural heritage is documented and protected.
- You will conduct site assessments and surveys to identify significant cultural resources, employing both fieldwork and research methodologies.
- Your work often involves compliance with federal, state, and local regulations regarding historic preservation, necessitating a thorough understanding of laws such as the National Historic Preservation Act.
- Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, including archaeologists, historians, and architects, will be key in evaluating the potential impacts of proposed projects on cultural resources.
- You will develop management plans aimed at preserving cultural sites, recommending conservation methods, and facilitating public education initiatives about local heritage.
- Advocacy plays a significant role in your work, as you may also engage with community groups and individuals to raise awareness of the importance of cultural preservation and its relevance to local identity.
- Environmental impact assessments may fall under your purview, where you will analyze how upcoming developments may affect cultural resources and propose mitigation strategies accordingly.
Through your efforts, you contribute to the broader goal of safeguarding cultural heritage for future generations while balancing the needs of development and community interests.
Cultural Resource Manager Salary in Utah
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 Utah
To pursue a career as a Cultural Resource Manager, you will need to obtain a relevant educational background. Here are the specific college degree programs that are typically required:
Cultural Resource Management and Policy Analysis
- This program equips you with knowledge about the management and preservation of cultural resources, including understanding policies that govern these practices.
Anthropology
- A degree in anthropology provides a broad understanding of human societies, cultures, and their development, which is essential for assessing cultural resources.
Archaeology
- An archaeology degree focuses on the study of past human activity through material remains, offering you vital skills for managing archaeological sites and resources.
Historic Preservation and Conservation
- This program emphasizes the principles and practices of safeguarding historic structures and landscapes, which is directly applicable to cultural resource management.
History
- A degree in history offers insight into past events, contexts, and significance that can inform your approach to managing cultural resources.
In addition to your degree, gaining practical experience through internships or volunteer opportunities in related fields can enhance your qualifications and understanding of cultural resource management.
Best Schools to become a Cultural Resource Manager in Utah 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 Utah
Cultural Awareness: You need a deep understanding of different cultures, histories, and social dynamics, particularly those relevant to the communities in Utah. Your ability to respect and appreciate diverse cultural perspectives is essential.
Research Proficiency: Strong skills in conducting thorough research are vital. You should be adept at utilizing various tools and methodologies to gather, analyze, and interpret data related to cultural resources.
Project Management: You must effectively manage multiple projects, balancing competing deadlines and resources. This includes planning, executing, monitoring, and closing projects while ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
Communication Skills: You must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills to clearly convey findings, proposals, and recommendations to stakeholders, including community members, government officials, and fellow researchers.
Fieldwork Capability: Your role may require physical stamina and the ability to work in diverse environments, including remote locations and sometimes challenging weather conditions. Fieldwork experience is essential for conducting surveys and assessments.
Analytical Thinking: You should have strong analytical skills to assess data and identify patterns, implications, and potential issues related to cultural resources.
Negotiation Skills: You often need to negotiate with different parties, such as government agencies and stakeholders. Your ability to facilitate discussions and reach mutually acceptable agreements is key.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), databases, and other software used for mapping and analyzing cultural resources is important. You should also be comfortable using technologies pertinent to documentation and reporting.
Attention to Detail: You need to have a keen eye for detail to ensure accuracy in documentation, data entry, and compliance with preservation laws and standards.
Teamwork and Collaboration: You must be able to work effectively as part of a team, engaging with colleagues and stakeholders, fostering a collaborative environment to achieve common goals.
Problem-Solving Ability: Your capacity to identify challenges and propose viable solutions is essential, particularly when dealing with unexpected issues in the field or during project execution.
Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with local, state, and federal regulations concerning cultural resource management will enhance your effectiveness in ensuring that projects comply with all legal requirements.
Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing circumstances, feedback, and new information is crucial in a field that can be affected by various social, environmental, and political factors.
Public Engagement: You should possess skills in public engagement and outreach, facilitating informed discussions about cultural resources with community members and the broader public.
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 Utah
The job market for Cultural Resource Managers in Utah remains dynamic, with several factors influencing demand and growth potential. As you explore this field, consider the following insights:
Increasing Demand: There is a strong demand for Cultural Resource Managers due to the state's rich cultural heritage and ongoing development projects. Utah's archaeological sites, historic buildings, and Native American cultural assets require protection and management, driving the need for professionals skilled in cultural resource management.
Growth Potential: The growth potential in this field is promising, particularly as local and federal regulations require compliance with cultural preservation laws. The expansion of infrastructure projects, such as roads, housing developments, and energy projects, necessitates assessments and mitigation efforts that engage Cultural Resource Managers.
Geographical Hotspots: Some areas in Utah are particularly active in cultural resource management:
- Salt Lake City: As the state's capital, Salt Lake City is a hub for governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, and private firms focused on cultural resources.
- Provo and Utah County: The growth in population and development in Utah County creates a need for professionals who can manage and protect cultural resources amidst rapid urbanization.
- St. George and Washington County: The booming tourist industry draws attention to the preservation of historical and archeological sites in Southern Utah, which offers job opportunities in cultural resource management.
- Moab: Known for its outdoor recreation and proximity to numerous archaeological sites, Moab has growing opportunities related to cultural resource assessments, particularly in relation to tourism and conservation efforts.
Interagency Collaboration: Many Cultural Resource Managers find opportunities within collaborative frameworks with various agencies, including state and federal organizations. This collaboration often allows for diverse projects, further enhancing job stability and opportunities within this field.
In summary, the job market for Cultural Resource Managers in Utah presents various avenues for growth and employment. By staying informed about the demands and opportunities in specific regions, you can strategically position yourself for success in this rewarding career path.
Top Related Careers to Cultural Resource Manager 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Cultural Resource Manager in Utah
National Park Service (NPS) Cultural Resources
Explore a wide array of resources on cultural resource management, including guidelines, best practices, and project examples.
National Park Service Cultural ResourcesUtah Division of State History
Gain insights into state-specific guidelines and regulations for managing cultural resources in Utah. Access publications, current projects, and historical data.
Utah Division of State HistorySociety for American Archaeology (SAA)
This organization provides resources, professional development opportunities, and a platform for networking among cultural resource professionals.
Society for American ArchaeologyAmerican Cultural Resources Association (ACRA)
ACRE offers resources tailored to professionals involved in cultural resource management, including ethical guidelines, events, and a job board.
American Cultural Resources AssociationUtah State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)
This office manages the National Historic Preservation Program in Utah. It provides tools for preservation planning, funding programs, and a statewide database of historic properties.
Utah SHPOArchaeological Institute of America (AIA)
AIA promotes the appreciation of archaeology and provides resources for archaeological research, including publications and educational outreach materials.
Archaeological Institute of AmericaNational Trust for Historic Preservation
This organization advocates for historic preservation and offers resources ranging from legal assistance to funding opportunities for preservation projects.
National Trust for Historic PreservationCultural Resources Management Journal
This journal publishes research and articles focused on current trends and practices in cultural resource management. It is an authoritative source for staying updated on scholarly activities.
Cultural Resources Management JournalUtah State University - Department of Sociology, Social Work, and Anthropology
This academic department provides educational resources, programs, and research opportunities related to cultural resource management.
Utah State University
By utilizing these resources, you will gain valuable information and tools that can support your career development in cultural resource management within Utah.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cultural Resource Manager in Utah
What is a Cultural Resource Manager?
A Cultural Resource Manager (CRM) is a professional responsible for managing and protecting cultural resources, such as historical sites, artifacts, and archaeological locations. They ensure that these resources are preserved in accordance with state and federal laws.What qualifications do I need to become a Cultural Resource Manager?
Typically, you need a master’s degree in archaeology, history, anthropology, or a related field. Relevant experience in fieldwork, research, and cultural resource management is also highly valued.What types of organizations hire Cultural Resource Managers in Utah?
Cultural Resource Managers can work for a variety of organizations, including government agencies (such as state and federal land management agencies), private consulting firms, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions.What are the main responsibilities of a Cultural Resource Manager?
Your primary responsibilities will include conducting surveys and excavations, managing compliance with cultural resource laws, preparing reports, and collaborating with various stakeholders, including tribal groups, government officials, and the public.Is fieldwork a significant part of the job?
Yes, fieldwork is a vital aspect of the role. You will frequently conduct site assessments, monitor excavation processes, and participate in archaeological digs, which require physical presence in the field.What skills are essential for a Cultural Resource Manager?
Key skills include analytical thinking, project management, strong communication abilities, teamwork, and a solid understanding of historical preservation laws and cultural resource policies.What is the job outlook for Cultural Resource Managers in Utah?
The job outlook is generally positive, especially with the increasing emphasis on heritage preservation and cultural resource management in compliance with state and federal guidelines.What are some potential career advancement opportunities?
As you gain experience, you might progress to senior management positions, such as Director of Cultural Resources or specialized roles in heritage policy, or even academia as a professor or researcher.Are there specific licensing or certification requirements in Utah?
While there are no specific licenses required to work as a Cultural Resource Manager, certifications from organizations like the Register of Professional Archaeologists (RPA) can enhance your credentials and job prospects.How does one stay updated with changes in cultural resource management regulations?
You can stay informed by subscribing to professional organizations, attending workshops and conferences, participating in continuing education courses, and following relevant government agencies and publications.