Cultural Resource Management
Cultural Resource Management (CRM) is a field that focuses on protecting and managing historical and cultural sites, artifacts, and traditions. It's like being a guardian of history, where professionals ensure that important cultural and historical places are properly studied, protected, and preserved, especially when new construction or development projects are planned. This work is particularly important when companies or government agencies need to build new infrastructure while following laws that protect historical sites. Similar terms include heritage management or historic preservation.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted Cultural Resource Management surveys for major highway construction projects
Led CRM investigations and artifact preservation at Native American archaeological sites
Prepared Cultural Resource Management compliance reports for federal construction permits
Typical job title: "Cultural Resource Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Cultural Resource Managers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a complex project involving multiple stakeholders with competing interests?
Expected Answer: A senior manager should discuss experience balancing development needs with preservation requirements, mentioning stakeholder communication, negotiation skills, and knowledge of relevant regulations and compliance procedures.
Q: What strategies would you use to manage a large-scale cultural resource survey with budget constraints?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate project management expertise, resource allocation, priority setting, and ability to maintain quality while working within budget limitations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Explain your experience with Section 106 compliance procedures.
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic federal review process, consultation requirements, and experience preparing documentation for regulatory compliance.
Q: How do you determine if a site is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places?
Expected Answer: Should explain the evaluation criteria, documentation process, and understanding of historical significance assessment.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What experience do you have with cultural resource surveys?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe basic survey methods, documentation procedures, and understanding of field safety protocols.
Q: How do you document archaeological findings in the field?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic recording methods, photography, note-taking, and preliminary report writing.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic field survey techniques
- Documentation and record-keeping
- Understanding of preservation laws
- Report writing assistance
Mid (2-5 years)
- Project management
- Regulatory compliance
- Stakeholder communication
- Survey team leadership
Senior (5+ years)
- Program development and oversight
- Complex project management
- Agency consultation and negotiation
- Staff supervision and mentoring
Red Flags to Watch For
- No field experience or practical survey work
- Lack of knowledge about basic preservation laws and regulations
- Poor understanding of documentation requirements
- No experience with stakeholder communication
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Cracking the Code: How to Source Talent in APAC and EMEA with Cultural Sensitivity
Culture Add vs Culture Fit in Hiring: Why It May Be Time to Rethink Your Approach
Beyond the Resume: Cultivating a "Hire for Potential" Mindset in Management
