Heritage Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era where cultural preservation is of utmost importance, the focus on Heritage Managers has never been more significant.

As society progresses, the demand for skilled professionals who can protect, promote and manage our cultural and historical assets grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Heritage Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the crux of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of heritage management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Heritage Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Heritage Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Heritage Managers are responsible for the preservation, management, and improvement of historical and cultural heritage sites.

They work to ensure that such sites are available and accessible for public enjoyment and education.

Heritage Managers have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Develop and implement strategies for the conservation and preservation of heritage sites
• Work in collaboration with stakeholders such as local communities, government bodies, and heritage organizations to manage and promote heritage sites
• Oversee the daily operations of heritage sites, including site maintenance, staff management, and visitor services
• Prepare and manage budgets for heritage projects and site operations
• Apply for grants and funding for heritage conservation and development projects
• Organize and oversee educational programs and events that promote the cultural and historical significance of heritage sites
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations pertaining to heritage conservation
• Manage the marketing and promotion of heritage sites to increase visitor numbers and awareness
• Coordinate with archaeologists, historians, and other specialists for site conservation and research purposes
• Carry out risk assessments and implement measures to ensure the safety of visitors and staff

 

Heritage Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a dedicated Heritage Manager to manage and conserve our organization’s heritage assets.

The Heritage Manager will be responsible for creating, implementing and maintaining heritage management programs.

As a Heritage Manager, your duties will include the management and conservation of sites, artifacts, and collections, coordinating with local communities and stakeholders, and implementing educational programs and events to promote heritage awareness.

Your ultimate goal is to ensure the preservation and accessibility of our cultural heritage for future generations.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage the care and conservation of heritage sites, collections, and artifacts
• Develop, implement and review heritage management policies and plans
• Coordinate with local communities, stakeholders and governmental bodies
• Plan and execute educational programs and events to promote heritage awareness
• Manage budgets and resources for heritage management activities
• Conduct research and documentation of heritage assets
• Engage with the public and media to promote heritage conservation
• Train and manage heritage staff and volunteers

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a similar role or in heritage conservation
• Knowledge of heritage legislation and guidelines
• Strong project management and leadership skills
• Excellent research and documentation skills
• Strong communication and public speaking skills
• Ability to engage with diverse communities and stakeholders
• Relevant degree in Heritage Management, History, Archaeology, Museum Studies or a related field

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Heritage Manager
• Work Environment: This role is primarily office-based but may require travel to various heritage sites and events. Some outdoor work may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Cultural Resources or Director of Heritage.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 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 Heritage Manager Do?

Heritage Managers work primarily for heritage sites, museums, historical buildings, or conservation organizations.

Their roles may also extend to art galleries, archives, and cultural institutions.

They are responsible for the preservation, management, and enhancement of cultural heritage sites.

This involves overseeing the maintenance and restoration of historical buildings, monuments, and artifacts.

One of the primary responsibilities of a Heritage Manager is to ensure that the heritage site is accessible to the public, which might involve organizing exhibitions, tours, educational programs, and other public events.

They ensure that the site’s history is effectively communicated to the visitors.

They also manage the administrative and financial aspects of the site, including fundraising, budgeting, staff supervision, and public relations.

This often includes applying for grants and managing relationships with donors and sponsors.

Heritage Managers work closely with historians, conservators, archeologists, and other professionals to ensure the accurate preservation and interpretation of the site.

They also liaise with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders to promote the site’s cultural significance and value.

In addition, they may be involved in research activities to increase understanding of the site and its historical context.

This could involve collaborating with scholars, conducting archival research, or contributing to academic publications.

Ultimately, a Heritage Manager’s role is to safeguard and promote cultural heritage, ensuring that it can be appreciated by future generations.

 

Heritage Manager Qualifications and Skills

A successful Heritage Manager requires a unique blend of skills and qualifications to effectively manage and promote heritage sites and organizations, such as:

• Expertise in heritage management, including knowledge of the history and significance of the site or collection in their care.
• Superb organizational skills for planning and implementing programs and events, as well as maintaining detailed records and databases.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to interact with various stakeholders including staff, volunteers, visitors, and potential donors.
• Sound knowledge of heritage preservation and conservation techniques, as well as relevant laws and regulations.
• Proficiency in fundraising and budgeting, including the ability to secure and manage grants and other forms of financial support.
• Strong leadership skills to motivate and manage a diverse team, often including staff, contractors, and volunteers.
• Ability to work with a broad range of individuals and groups, such as local communities, schools, and other heritage organizations to promote awareness and engagement.
• Problem-solving skills to address challenges related to preservation, public engagement, and resource management.
• Skills in public relations and marketing, including the use of social media and other digital platforms, to raise the profile of the site or organization and increase visitor numbers.

 

Heritage Manager Experience Requirements

Heritage Managers often possess a bachelor’s or master’s degree in history, archaeology, museum studies, or a related field.

This provides foundational knowledge and experience in areas like museum operations, collections management, and conservation.

Practical experience often begins with internships, volunteering, or part-time roles at museums, heritage sites, or cultural institutions.

This hands-on experience, typically 1 to 2 years, is crucial for understanding the intricacies of managing a heritage site and interacting with the public.

After the initial years, those with 3 to 5 years of experience in the field usually have had roles such as Museum Curator, Conservation Officer, or Heritage Officer.

They often possess a deeper understanding of heritage management, including running educational programs, conservation efforts, and fundraising.

Heritage Managers with more than 5 years of experience are often considered senior and may have leadership or managerial experience.

They may have overseen large projects, managed teams, or led strategic planning for the heritage institution.

Such individuals are well-equipped to manage the multifaceted tasks that come with managing a heritage site or museum.

 

Heritage Manager Education and Training Requirements

Heritage Managers usually have a bachelor’s degree in heritage management, history, archaeology, or a related field.

They need to have a strong understanding of history and cultural resource management as well as regulatory guidelines related to heritage preservation.

Some positions may require a master’s degree in heritage or museum studies, archaeology or a similar discipline.

This is especially true for roles that involve managing large or highly significant heritage sites.

Heritage Managers should ideally have a professional qualification from a recognized body such as the Institute of Heritage Professionals.

Some roles might also require a certification in project management or public relations.

Experience in the heritage or museum sector, including volunteer work, can be highly beneficial.

Additionally, many Heritage Managers will have undergone specific training in areas like artifact preservation, cataloguing and display techniques, and public engagement.

Continuing education is important in this role due to the evolving nature of heritage preservation regulations and techniques.

Hence, ongoing professional development through workshops, conferences, and courses can be advantageous.

 

Heritage Manager Salary Expectations

A Heritage Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $65,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary based on factors such as industry experience, educational background, the size and type of the managed heritage site, and the geographical location of the site.

 

Heritage Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Heritage Manager need?

Heritage Managers should have strong knowledge of history, heritage conservation, and cultural practices.

They need excellent organizational and project management skills to oversee various conservation and maintenance projects.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills are also important for interacting with staff, volunteers, and the public.

Understanding of relevant laws, regulations, and ethical guidelines is also crucial.

 

Do Heritage Managers need a degree?

Most Heritage Managers have at least a bachelor’s degree in history, anthropology, museum studies, or a related field.

Many also have a master’s degree or further professional qualification in heritage or museum management.

Some roles may require specific knowledge or skills, such as experience with architectural conservation or digital heritage technologies.

 

What should you look for in a Heritage Manager resume?

In a Heritage Manager’s resume, look for a degree in a relevant field and experience in managing heritage sites or projects.

They should have demonstrated abilities in project management, team leadership, and working with various stakeholders.

Experience in fundraising, grant writing, or other financial management tasks is a plus.

Proficiency in relevant software or technologies, such as GIS or database management systems, is also beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Heritage Manager?

A good Heritage Manager is passionate about conserving and promoting cultural heritage.

They should be proactive, organized, and able to manage multiple tasks or projects at once.

They need to be good at building relationships with a variety of stakeholders, from staff and volunteers to government agencies and the local community.

A good Heritage Manager should also be able to adapt to changes and stay updated with the latest trends and developments in the heritage sector.

 

What are the daily duties of a Heritage Manager?

A Heritage Manager’s daily duties can vary depending on the site or organization they work for, but they typically include overseeing conservation and maintenance work, managing staff and volunteers, planning and implementing educational programs or events, liaising with stakeholders, and managing budgets or grants.

They may also spend time researching the history of the site or objects in their care and working on strategies to attract visitors or promote the heritage site.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the heart of what it means to be a Heritage Manager.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about preserving the past.

It’s about curating our shared cultural history, one artifact at a time.

Armed with our go-to Heritage Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the plunge.

But why stop at the surface?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your surefire route to precision-crafted listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every artifact tells a story that’s part of a larger narrative.

Let’s preserve that past. Together.

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