Cultural Resource Management Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evolving landscape of cultural heritage, the spotlight on Cultural Resource Management Specialists has never been more pronounced.

As societal awareness and appreciation for cultural heritage advance, so does the demand for skilled individuals who can identify, evaluate, and protect our cultural resources.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly is expected from a Cultural Resource Management Specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to outline the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the complex world of cultural resource management,

You’ve found the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Cultural Resource Management Specialist job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Cultural Resource Management Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Cultural Resource Management Specialists are responsible for preserving and managing cultural resources, including historical sites, artifacts, and cultural landscapes.

They work closely with archaeological teams, heritage organizations, and government bodies to ensure the preservation and appropriate management of cultural heritage.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting research and surveys to identify cultural resources in need of preservation
• Assessing the condition of cultural resources and determining their historical significance
• Developing and implementing preservation strategies and management plans for cultural resources
• Ensuring compliance with laws and regulations related to cultural resource management
• Coordinating with archaeologists, historians, and other professionals to carry out preservation activities
• Working with community groups and indigenous people to understand and respect cultural significance
• Preparing reports and documentation detailing the condition and management of cultural resources
• Educating the public and raising awareness about the importance of preserving cultural heritage
• Securing funding and resources for preservation projects through grants and other sources
• Assisting in the curation and storage of artifacts and other cultural materials

 

Cultural Resource Management Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a diligent Cultural Resource Management Specialist to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for identifying, preserving, and documenting cultural resources such as historic structures, archaeological sites, and artifacts.

The Cultural Resource Management Specialist will conduct field surveys, undertake historical research, provide assessments for potential impacts on cultural resources, and prepare technical reports.

An understanding of federal, state, and local laws related to historic preservation and cultural resource management is crucial for this role.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct cultural resource surveys and assessments
• Prepare technical reports and documentation
• Advise on potential impacts to cultural resources
• Provide consultation services on preservation planning
• Participate in public outreach activities
• Assist in planning and implementing mitigation strategies
• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations and guidelines
• Liaise with relevant government agencies, stakeholders, and indigenous groups
• Provide training and guidance to team members
• Stay updated with current research and preservation techniques

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in Cultural Resource Management or a related field
• Degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, History, or a related field
• Familiarity with federal, state, and local laws pertaining to historic preservation and cultural resource management
• Experience in conducting field surveys, historical research, and impact assessments
• Excellent writing and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to travel and work outdoors in various weather conditions

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cultural Resource Management Specialist
• Work Environment: Combination of office setting, field work, and remote work. Travel may be required for site visits and meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Cultural Resource Management Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cultural Resource Management Specialist Do?

Cultural Resource Management Specialists, also known as cultural heritage managers, work in a field that involves the identification, preservation, and maintenance of cultural heritage sites and resources.

These might include archaeological sites, historical structures, monuments, artifacts, and even landscapes that hold cultural significance.

These specialists carry out archaeological surveys and research to find and identify sites that have historical or cultural value.

They evaluate these resources to determine their significance and recommend methods for their preservation.

They work closely with governments, indigenous tribes, communities, and organizations to protect and manage cultural resources.

They may also collaborate with architects and planners on construction projects to ensure that any potential impacts on cultural heritage sites are mitigated.

Their role may also involve public outreach and education.

They might develop programs, exhibitions, or presentations to share information about cultural resources and raise public awareness about the importance of their preservation.

Cultural Resource Management Specialists are often employed by museums, historical societies, government agencies, and consulting firms.

They can also work as independent consultants, advising on the management of cultural heritage in various contexts.

They ensure that cultural resources are not only preserved for future generations, but are also accessible and meaningful to the public in the present.

 

Cultural Resource Management Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A competent Cultural Resource Management Specialist should possess the skills and qualifications that match your job needs, including:

• Thorough understanding of federal, state, and local cultural resource management laws and regulations to ensure compliance in all tasks.
• Strong research skills to gather, analyze, and interpret data regarding cultural resources and historic properties.
• Proven experience in managing and conducting cultural resources surveys, assessments, and impact evaluations.
• Excellent communication skills to present findings, work with a variety of stakeholders, and contribute to public education about cultural resources.
• Detail-oriented and the ability to compile, write, and manage complex reports and documents.
• Interpersonal skills to work effectively in a team environment, and collaborate with archaeologists, historians, anthropologists, and other specialists.
• Problem-solving skills to address potential conflicts between development projects and cultural resource preservation.
• A bachelor’s or master’s degree in archaeology, anthropology, history, or a related field, often required for this position.
• Capability to work in various conditions, such as outdoor sites and locations with limited access, as well as office settings.

 

Cultural Resource Management Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Cultural Resource Management Specialists usually possess a Bachelor’s degree in anthropology, archaeology, history, or a related field.

They may have some practical experience through internships or temporary projects, often carried out as part of their studies.

This basic experience level will typically include tasks such as basic field surveys, site mapping, artifact processing, and report preparation.

Those with around 2 to 3 years of experience may have worked as assistants on archaeological digs or with heritage conservation projects.

They might have gained experience in more complex tasks such as planning and conducting field investigations, analyzing and interpreting cultural resources, and maintaining databases of cultural resource records.

Cultural Resource Management Specialists with over 5 years of experience often have a Master’s degree or higher in a related field and have developed a specialized understanding of cultural resource laws and regulations.

They are likely to have experience in managing and supervising cultural resource projects, including monitoring compliance with cultural resource laws and regulations, and developing and implementing cultural resource management plans.

Those with more than 10 years of experience may have leadership experience and might have held positions such as Project Manager or Senior Cultural Resource Specialist.

These professionals are often responsible for overseeing multiple projects, managing teams, and interfacing with local, state, and federal agencies regarding cultural resources matters.

 

Cultural Resource Management Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Cultural Resource Management Specialists typically hold a bachelor’s degree in archaeology, anthropology, history, or a closely related field.

Fieldwork experience, which could be obtained through internships, summer jobs, or volunteering, is highly valued in this profession.

Additionally, some positions may require a master’s degree or doctoral degree, particularly for those interested in leadership roles or academic research positions.

Knowledge of historic preservation laws and regulations, artifact conservation, and site assessment is crucial for this role.

Therefore, coursework or training in these areas is highly recommended.

Moreover, Cultural Resource Management Specialists should be proficient in technical writing and possess strong communication skills, as they are often required to prepare and present reports.

Some professionals in this field may opt to obtain certification from a recognized organization, such as the Register of Professional Archaeologists, to demonstrate their competency and commitment to ethical standards.

Continuing education, such as attending workshops and conferences, is essential to stay updated with the latest research and methodologies in cultural resource management.

 

Cultural Resource Management Specialist Salary Expectations

A Cultural Resource Management Specialist earns an average salary of $61,000 (USD) per year.

This salary can vary depending on factors such as the individual’s level of education, years of experience in the field, and the location of employment.

 

Cultural Resource Management Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Cultural Resource Management Specialist need?

A Cultural Resource Management Specialist should possess a deep knowledge of archaeology, history, and preservation law.

They also need excellent research, analytical, and communication skills.

Experience with database management and Geographic Information System (GIS) software is often required.

 

Do Cultural Resource Management Specialists need a degree?

Yes, a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in archaeology, anthropology, history, or a closely related field is often required.

Some positions may require a PhD.

Specialized training or certificates in cultural resource management can also be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Cultural Resource Management Specialist resume?

Look for a strong educational background in a relevant field, fieldwork experience, and familiarity with cultural resource management laws and regulations.

Expertise in using GIS software and conducting archaeological or historical research is a plus.

Certifications related to cultural resource management could also be a bonus.

 

What qualities make a good Cultural Resource Management Specialist?

A good Cultural Resource Management Specialist should have a passion for cultural preservation and an eye for detail.

Excellent research and analytical skills are critical, as well as strong communication skills, as they often work with diverse groups including government officials, archaeologists, and community members.

They must also be able to work in various environmental conditions and physically demanding situations, as fieldwork is often a significant part of their job.

 

What is the career path for a Cultural Resource Management Specialist?

Cultural Resource Management Specialists may start their careers as field technicians or research assistants and can move into specialist or project manager roles with experience.

Some may choose to specialize in a particular area such as archaeology, architectural history, or historic preservation.

With further experience and education, they can advance into roles such as Senior Specialist or Program Director.

Some may even transition into academia or consulting.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified what it means to be a Cultural Resource Management Specialist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about historic preservation.

It’s about safeguarding our cultural heritage, one artifact at a time.

With our comprehensive Cultural Resource Management Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-prepared to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your ideal tool for crafting precise job listings or perfecting your resume to stand out.

Remember:

Every artifact tells a story of our shared past.

Let’s preserve that story. Together.

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