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Fill out the survey by clicking on THIS link! Survey Closes: 01/01/27 <3<3<3$$$$$Survey created by/ data managed by Sarah Marsom aka Dismantle Preservation. THANK YOU for helping cultivate a transparent historic preservation/ public history field. Please reach out to me@sarahmarsom.com if you have any questions This is a living/breathing document.View the 2023-2024 survey results via this link. Q: Want to use this data in your work? A: Amazing, please credit accordingly Q: Wrote a paper that used this data? A: Great, email Sarah a copy of itSurvey created by/ data managed by Sarah Marsom aka Dismantle Preservation. THANK YOU for helping cultivate a transparent historic preservation/ public history field. Please reach out to me@sarahmarsom.com if you have any questions This is a living/breathing document.View the 2023-2024 survey results via this link. Q: Want to use this data in your work? A: Amazing, please credit accordingly Q: Wrote a paper that used this data? A: Great, email Sarah a copy of it
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TimestampJob Title - feel free to fudge if needed for anonymityWhat sector does the majority of your income come from? How would you describe your workload? Current Salary and/or Hourly Rate w/ projected annual income for 2026. Please convert your wage to USD, if you are not based in the United States. How many years have you worked in cultural resources? Please self define how many years you have worked in preservation, I personally begin with my first internship. How frequently are you compensated for your work? Where are you based? Please select the region* if you are in the United States. If you are not based in the United States, please mark other and enter the name of your country and province or state if applicable

* I recognize regions are a great debate/exploration of cultural geography, geology, and more. These options listed are an over simplified version of how I would define the country's regions. These regions were selected in an effort to keep things simple and the data easy to search. 		Do you work a secondary (or third) job within the cultural heritage field to assist with your expenses? Do you work a secondary (or third) job outside the cultural heritage field to assist with your expenses? Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Does your role offer benefits?
Are you happy with your current position?
Are you looking for a new job?
Would you consider yourself satisfied with your professional pathway or frustrated?
Do you think you are fairly paid compared to your peers at your institution or the larger field?
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2/19/2026 12:01:52Assistant Professor and Librarian GovernmentFull Time85,00011-15 yearsMonthlyGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)Not at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsYes, I currently doState funded university makes for stressful day to day as funding cuts and government overreach are making DEI librarianship feel threatening
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2/19/2026 12:30:03Executive DirectorNonprofitFull Time$110,0006-10 yearsBiweeklyFar West (CA, NV, OR, WA, AK, HI)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsHealth benefits covered up to $600/$1200; 4% 401k match, 12 days PTO + 12 paid holidays
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2/19/2026 12:52:43Program Manager NonprofitFull Time52,00011-15 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI get medical benefits and dental envision will be included beginning March 2026, it is a small organization so I think most of us are underpaid ED included which mostly makes me think we need to do a better job of fundraising for operations
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2/19/2026 13:30:38Assistant ProfessorAcademiaFull Time84,00016-20 yearsBiweeklySouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)Yes, I currently doNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsSubstantial concerns with working for state government given the current regime
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2/19/2026 13:42:53Preservation OfficerNonprofitFull Time65,0006-10 yearsBiweeklyGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)Not at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsLove my job! I have benefits including health/dental insurance, 401k, PTO, etc.
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2/19/2026 13:45:17Director of Operations NonprofitFull Time$77,0006-10 yearsBiweeklyGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)Not at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsBenefits include: health, vision, dental, and life insurance; good pto; travel reimbursement; can work from home if needed, retirement plan, annual bonus. I am happy with my current position, but so still feel slightly undercompensated. I am always passively looking for better opportunities. I am satisfied with my professional pathway
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2/19/2026 13:57:52Senior architectural historianConsultingInconsistent work due to structure of position73,000/ $35 hr6-10 yearsBiweeklySouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)Yes, I currently doYes, I currently doCRM is the most toxic job I’ve ever had
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2/19/2026 19:19:07Architectural HistorianConsultingFull Time$83,00016-20 yearsMonthlyFar West (CA, NV, OR, WA, AK, HI)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsWFH, small retirement matching, 4 weeks paid vacation
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2/19/2026 19:54:26Director of Programs NonprofitFull Time$98,0006-10 yearsBiweeklySouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsI just started this job 3 weeks ago :) this job was a $24k increase from my previous job (also nonprofit, but national and way bigger) and the new employer intentionally prioritizes salaries for staff because we are in an expensive city. I also get health benefits (90% paid by employer) and 401k match. I feel valued here already, based on salary and the interview/offer process.
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2/20/2026 8:06:27EducatorNonprofitFull Time$92,320 (annually)11-15 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)Not at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI have a full benefit package (medical, dental, vision), retirement plan with 11% match, and reciprocal staff access to museums across North America.

I love my current role but am uncertain on what’s next for me. I am paid better than most in my field and similar level.
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2/23/2026 8:47:19Outreach coordinator GovernmentPart Time36.00/hr11-15 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsOur company offers generous benefits which I cannot partake in as a part timer but I am happy with the flexibility offered. I am supported by my company in volunteer efforts as well as professional societies and conferences despite being a very low hour/week employee. My professional pathway has allowed me to greater participate in my community and balance parenthood as a stay at home mom with incredible flexibility.
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2/23/2026 8:50:19Architectural Historian GovernmentFull Time13000026-30 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsFairly compensated
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2/23/2026 8:53:55Program Director GovernmentFull Time75,70811-15 yearsBiweeklySouth Central (AR, LA, MO, MS, TN, KY, AL)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsBenefits, not currently happy due to extensive workload without proper support or compensation. I’d say frustrated! Not nearly adequately compensated for the job title, associated responsibilities or workload.
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2/23/2026 8:56:15Preservation PlannerConsultingFull Time$81,00011-15 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsBenefits: Healthcare, PTO, and 401K
Happy with position: Overall, yes.
Looking for new job: Not in this environment.
Satisfied or frustrated with professional path: Mix of both.
Do I think fairly paid in comparison: Yes.
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2/23/2026 8:59:29Architectural Historian ConsultingFull Time63,0005 years or lessBiweeklySouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsBasic benefits.
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2/23/2026 9:00:40Group ManagerConsultingFull Time147,00016-20 yearsBiweeklySouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsVery satisfied with my job currently
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2/23/2026 9:03:15Historic Preservation OfficerGovernmentFull Time$39.9621-25 yearsBiweeklySouth Central (AR, LA, MO, MS, TN, KY, AL)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsMy role does include benefits/pension. I believe I am fairly paid in my location currently, but I was underpaid for the majority of my career.
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2/23/2026 9:04:34Project ManagerNonprofitFull Time$34,000 ($18 p/hour)5 years or lessMonthlyUnited States Territory (Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands)Yes, I currently doYes, I currently do-
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2/23/2026 9:05:37Architectural Historian ConsultingFull Time$32/hr 5 years or lessBiweeklyFar West (CA, NV, OR, WA, AK, HI)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsCompany offers no salaried positions, no healthcare, and no overtime. Company instead offers a generous PTO policy and possible use of company vehicles. Company culture is excellent. Although I wish for a salaried position that provides healthcare, this is the best and most well paying job I ever had. In this economy and with this administration, it feels impossible that I’d find another job in cultural resources. My husband and I have agreed I should stay at this job until it’s time to start our family. After which time, I’ll most likely transition to a stay at home mom role due to how expensive childcare is.
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2/23/2026 9:05:55Historical Resources ManagerGovernmentFull Time$110,00011-15 yearsBiweeklySouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI feel I am fairly compensated but am not happy with the culture so am looking.
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2/23/2026 9:09:51Architectural Historian ConsultingFull Time$80,0006-10 yearsBiweeklyFar West (CA, NV, OR, WA, AK, HI)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsMy company has not given any cost of living raises the past three years. So my salary has stayed the same for 3 years.
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2/23/2026 9:09:57National Register of Historic Places Program ManagerGovernmentFull Time52,000 per year6-10 yearsBiweeklySouth Central (AR, LA, MO, MS, TN, KY, AL)Not at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsAs a state position, we get healthcare and dental subsidized by the state. We do not receive overtime pay, just leave hours. I am satisfied with the work, but the position is hard to move up in due to limited positions and nobody retiring. I know our compensation is less than a contractor doing the same work which is annoying.
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2/23/2026 9:10:28Architectural HistorianConsultingFull Time31.04 per hour 64,0005 years or lessBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsI do get benefits, I am unhappy and looking for a new job. I am frustrated with my professional pathway and am probably compensated at around market rate
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2/23/2026 9:12:41Public Outreach ManagerNonprofitFull Time560006-10 yearsBiweeklyNew England (ME, NH, VT, MA, CT, RI)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsYes, I currently doN/A
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2/23/2026 9:13:02Architectural HistorianConsultingFull Time89,4006-10 yearsBiweeklySouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsN/A
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2/23/2026 9:13:34Director of Cultural ResourcesGovernmentFull Time13000026-30 yearsMonthlyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI love my job. I’m also a 1% owner of my small environmental consulting firm. The first 15 years were very difficult. I started out with 30k in CRM. I lucked out in joining the firm I did. Big firms were not a good place for me to grow.
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2/23/2026 9:16:03Architectural Historian GovernmentFull Time850005 years or lessBiweeklyGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI get full benefits. My job is sort of a black hole, I'm left by myself and get no feedback or any sort of real timeline. It's difficult to stay motivated
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2/23/2026 9:17:32Section 106 Compliance LiaisonNonprofitFull Time95,9036-10 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)Yes, I currently doNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI am employed (multi-year contract) by a nonprofit but embedded in a position at a federal agency. I get a fair salary equal to a federal GS-12 employee, and I can work remotely which is a huge perk. However, I do not get any federal benefits like paid maternity leave, I do not accrue paid time off at the same rate as I did in federal service, and I do not get annual cost of living pay increases. Most significantly, I do not get back pay after furlough (like federal workers do), so last year I only made about 60% of my salary. If things were different (different administration with hybrid/remote possibilities) I would return to federal service in a heartbeat.
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2/23/2026 9:18:34Architectural HistorianConsultingFull Time625006-10 yearsBiweeklyNew England (ME, NH, VT, MA, CT, RI)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI believe I am under compensated and believe my company's benefits are subpar, particularly PTO. I enjoy my coworkers and the flexibility of my position and am not currently looking for other work
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2/23/2026 9:19:35Architectural historianConsultingFull TimeCurrent salary: 60k year 6-10 yearsMonthlyGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo benefits. I am happy with my role and there is great room for salary improvement.
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2/23/2026 9:20:33Senior Planner/ Historic Preservation Officer GovernmentFull Time$101,00011-15 yearsBiweeklySouth West (AZ, NM, TX, OK)Not at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsHappy about the salary and the work, but the organization is terrible. If I could find a position with the same salary range I would change. The title of senior planner should also be upgraded for this position.
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2/23/2026 9:21:27Preservation PlannerConsultingFull Time$94,00011-15 yearsBiweeklyNew England (ME, NH, VT, MA, CT, RI)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsBenefits, happy with the position and professional pathway, consider myself fairly compensated
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2/23/2026 9:25:05Historic Preservation SpecialistGovernmentFull Time25/hr5 years or lessBiweeklyPlains (ND, SD, NE, KS, MN, IA)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsYes, I currently doNA
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2/23/2026 9:30:24Preservation Planner GovernmentFull Time52.8221/hour with 7.75 work day=$106436.5321-25 yearsBiweeklyGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsThank you for doing this. The difference it has made is profound
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2/23/2026 9:32:57Architectural HistorianGovernmentFull Time$130,00021-25 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsWithin the cultural resources field, I feel my compensation is reasonable. Compared to other fields with similar responsibilities and professional requirements, our field is grossly underpaid. Working for the government has its pros and cons, like any other sector. One downside is that annual pay increases very rarely keep up with cost of living increases and are usually much much less, so seeking promotions or job hopping can be the only way to offset this. Benefits can be very good, but this varies by location. I've had terrible benefits at the local level but known colleagues with the opposite experience, and my best benefits have been at one state agency while some of the worst were in a different state.
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2/23/2026 9:39:01Senior Planner, Historic PreservationGovernmentFull Time$85,446 annual salary21-25 yearsBiweeklySouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsFull health benefits, pension, retirement account matching. Recovering from burnout. Not looking for a new job. Frustrated with the lack of opportunity within my department for promotion.
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2/23/2026 9:39:40Project Manager ConsultingFull Time13000016-20 yearsWeeklyRocky Mountain (ID, MT, WY, UT, CO)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsMedium size environmental consulting firm, managing archaeology and architectural history projects for private business clients that require 106 compliance
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2/23/2026 9:40:00Director of ExhibitionsNonprofitFull Time70,0006-10 yearsBiweeklySouth Central (AR, LA, MO, MS, TN, KY, AL)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-years4 holidays, 17 PTO days, and 5 sick days; 2% match on retirement after 2 years; free health insurance; employee-paid vision and dental; one volunteer day off

I like my job but turnover is high in some departments

I am not necessarily happy with my pathway but it’s where I got a job and it’s sort of the lane I’m in now (contemporary art whereas I’d rather be in a museum with more historical works).

Also sad that because I’m in a director role, there isn’t much more growth for me or any sort of mentorship. I can learn from how others do their similar jobs, but I can’t get paid more or move up unless I want to be an ED and I hate fundraising.

Paid more than some of my peers at my institution because I negotiated in my job offer. Poorly paid across the industry.
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2/23/2026 9:40:01ArchaeologistGovernmentFull Time140,00026-30 yearsBiweeklySouth West (AZ, NM, TX, OK)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsYes happy full benefits and pension had to work really hard for low pay for many years to get here
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2/23/2026 9:40:04Chief of Historic Preservation/ County Historian (Planner III)GovernmentFull Time$95,000 (annual pre-tax)11-15 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)Not at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsFull time government position with typical benefits package
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2/23/2026 9:50:56History and Preservation Coordinator NonprofitFull Time20.945 years or lessBiweeklyGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsYes, I currently do401k and a cellphone stipend - no healthcare or other benefits. Unhappy with total compensation and job duties.
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2/23/2026 9:53:12Executive DirectorNonprofitFull Time$95,00026-30 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)Yes, I currently doNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsBenefits include health care, 403b match, good vacation/sick time. One raise in 5 years due to focus on increasing staff salaries.
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2/23/2026 9:53:47non-profit FundraiserNonprofitFull Time601806-10 yearsBiweeklyGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsno comment
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2/23/2026 9:54:26Historic Preservation Planner IGovernmentFull Time$64, 62126-30 yearsBiweeklySouth Central (AR, LA, MO, MS, TN, KY, AL)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsYes, I currently doJob has benefits. Not much chance for advancement.
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2/23/2026 10:04:39HistorianGovernmentFull Time72,00011-15 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsYes, offers good benefits. Underpaid for the workload/expertise required; although paid better compared to govt workers in other regions
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2/23/2026 10:11:43Historic Preservation Specialist GovernmentFull Time7800011-15 yearsBiweeklyPlains (ND, SD, NE, KS, MN, IA)Yes, I currently doYes, I currently doFederal employee and finally feel like I'm being compensated what I'm worth.
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2/23/2026 10:15:53Supervisor GovernmentFull Time141,60016-20 yearsMonthlyFar West (CA, NV, OR, WA, AK, HI)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsYes, yes, no, yes, yes
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2/23/2026 10:22:03Asst Lab ManagerGovernmentFull Time29.25 per hour6-10 yearsBiweeklySouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsYes, I currently doI love my current position, offers employer paid health, short and long term disability. I think I am fairly paid.
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2/23/2026 10:31:52Historic Preservation AdministratorGovernmentFull Time$64,446.006-10 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)Not at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsPosition comes with public sector benefits (health, pension, 457 plan, union protection); Yes - I am overall very pleased with the position; Overall, I am please with my pathway.
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2/23/2026 10:36:41Senior Historian/Project Manager ConsultingFull Time76,6006-10 yearsBiweeklySouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI work remotely and have for the last 5 years, I feel that in my current role at my current company I am compensated for the amount of work required of me - in the last year I left my previous role/company which paid me less, but I also was running an entire department and completing anywhere from 100-200 projects a year (aka I was working more like 60-80 hours a week probably about 80% of the time). The company I'm currently working for offers the typical compensation package items of PTO, sick time, and holidays, 401k, health, dental, and vision, plus other things like life insurance. When I interviewed with the company, they knew I would need to travel and offered (and followed through) to reimburse me for my travel expenses for an in-person interview. I feel like in my years of experience, I've now seen the toxic side of CRM as well as what it should be like through the various companies I've worked for - if you're feeling like your company is toxic, try to get out as soon as you can rather than hoping it will get better!
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2/23/2026 10:37:53Technical Preservation ReviewerGovernmentFull Time$70,0006-10 yearsBiweeklyPlains (ND, SD, NE, KS, MN, IA)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI have benefits, and recently switched jobs to my current position in search of a healthier work/life balance. I make somewhat less than I was hoping to in this new position, and certainly less than many peers in related fields (urban planning, etc.). Overall I am satisfied with my professional pathway, frustrations typically come from our current overall governmental situation (state/federal).
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2/23/2026 10:45:26Archivist and public historianGovernmentFull Time22.25 hr/ $46,280 annnual11-15 yearsBiweeklySouth West (AZ, NM, TX, OK)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsYes, I currently doI’m basically working for the insurance benefits. I would like to find another job that pays better but job searching is so draining and discouraging. If my workplace wasn’t so toxic, I would love my job. We are the most underpaid archivists in the state, and I’ve been there 7 years and the newbies are paid the same as me. Doesn’t make me feel great.
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2/23/2026 10:50:26Cultural Resources SpecialistGovernmentFull Time$81,120/year6-10 yearsBiweeklyFar West (CA, NV, OR, WA, AK, HI)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsSalary includes benefits.
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2/23/2026 10:57:33Principal Historic Preservation SpecialistGovernmentFull Time81,00011-15 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsMy role is OT eligible - salary listed is before OT.
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2/23/2026 11:01:20Historic Preservation GovernmentSeasonal Labor$90,000/year5 years or lessVaries, based on individual contractsGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)Yes, I currently doNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsCurrently no benefits
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2/23/2026 11:27:24HistorianGovernmentFull Time87,5005 years or lessBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI'm happy with my current position but as a federal employee it's been hard to keep up with all of the changes and deal with the upheaval.
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2/23/2026 11:34:17Visiting Assistant Professor of HistoryAcademiaPart Time$70,000.0016-20 yearsBiweeklySouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)Yes, I currently doNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsPay is lower than some peers at institution and in field. I am looking for a new position as this post has not become permanent.
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2/23/2026 11:39:25Architectural historian NonprofitFull Time$60,0006-10 yearsBiweeklyPlains (ND, SD, NE, KS, MN, IA)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsI’m extremely unhappy and do not feel appreciated or well compensated.
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2/23/2026 11:45:00Senior PlannerGovernmentFull Time95K annual salary11-15 yearsBiweeklySouth West (AZ, NM, TX, OK)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI struggled and left the position one year after the department promoted someone who has no preservation related training to be the preservation & urban design team leader.
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2/23/2026 11:45:00Architectural Historian GovernmentFull Time7500011-15 yearsBiweeklySouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNone
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2/23/2026 11:45:54Facade consultantConsultingFull Time127,0006-10 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsOffers good benefits
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2/23/2026 11:49:57Director of National NetworkNonprofitFull Time$129k6-10 yearsBiweeklyGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsBenefits package provided
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2/23/2026 11:53:51Senior AssociateConsultingFull Time$41/hour; ~$75,000/year11-15 yearsBiweeklySouth Central (AR, LA, MO, MS, TN, KY, AL)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsgood PTO, not many other benefits besides basic insurance that is not very good, no retirement contributions
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2/23/2026 11:55:06Principal investigator/Architectural HistorianConsultingFull Time$78,00026-30 yearsBiweeklyGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsYes, have benefits; satisfied with pathway although SHPO years were a struggle financially but the people were amazing
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2/23/2026 12:10:47Historic House CuratorGovernmentFull Time47,5006-10 yearsMonthlySouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)Yes, I currently doNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsConstantly looking for full-time jobs in the field that pay more
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2/23/2026 12:14:14History Learning Specialist NonprofitFull Time50,0006-10 yearsBiweeklyGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsWould not be able to work my job without my spouse’s income
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2/23/2026 12:23:50Executive DirectorNonprofitFull Time$115,000/yr6-10 yearsBiweeklySouth West (AZ, NM, TX, OK)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsI have fully paid medical, dental and vision as well as a SIMPLE IRA
70
2/23/2026 12:24:45Associate Environmental Planner- Archaeology GovernmentFull TimeCurrent: 91k/ projected 2026: 98k6-10 yearsMonthlyFar West (CA, NV, OR, WA, AK, HI)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsGreat benefits: PTO and sick time are very generous, pension, health insurance, part of a union, raises/ I am happy with my current role and I am not looking for a new job/ I would say I’m satisfied with my position/ I would say we get paid a bit less than the private sector, but make a comfortable wage.
71
2/23/2026 12:25:54Field Technician ConsultingFull Time20/hr5 years or lessWeeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsNo benefits, difficult to be hired with large companies. They seem to collect resumes and never respond, then make it impossible to follow up
72
2/23/2026 12:27:00Historic Preservation PlannerGovernmentFull Time$82,00011-15 yearsBiweeklySouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNa
73
2/23/2026 12:33:59Historic costumes assistantNonprofitFull Time14.57/h approx $30,000/y before taxes11-15 yearsBiweeklyGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)Not at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI’d like to be paid more, but I love what I do and I’m full time with benefits after years of advocating for it so I’m currently content
74
2/23/2026 12:38:26HistorianGovernmentFull Time$80,00016-20 yearsBiweeklyGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsFull time, union, state benefits. There is no upward mobility in my position but I like my job and my coworkers
75
2/23/2026 12:39:58Executive DirectorNonprofitFull Time120,00016-20 yearsMonthlySouth West (AZ, NM, TX, OK)Yes, I currently doNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo benefits.
Very happy.
76
2/23/2026 12:46:03Program DirectorGovernmentFull Time$60,0005 years or lessBiweeklyRocky Mountain (ID, MT, WY, UT, CO)Yes, I currently doNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsThe benefits at my organization are subpar. I have a master's degree but I'm making almost the same amount of money I was making straight out of college with a bachelor's. I am overworked and can feel myself becoming burned out. Others in my organization have expressed similar feelings.
77
2/23/2026 12:54:56ArchivistGovernmentPart Time$16/hr, part-time; $20,000 a year 5 years or lessBiweeklyGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)Yes, I currently doNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNone
78
2/23/2026 13:21:35Compliance/Tax Credit ReviewerGovernmentFull Time85,0006-10 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsMy role does offer many benefits and they are the only reason I am still in this position.
79
2/23/2026 13:22:13Historic Preservation Planner GovernmentFull Time65,73311-15 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)Not at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsYes, I have benefits, but no maternity leave or matching contributions to my 401k. Yes, I regularly look for a new position. My position is significantly underpaid compared to identical positions in neighboring counties.
80
2/23/2026 13:22:30Planner IGovernmentFull Time$57k/year5 years or lessBiweeklySouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsLocal govt. benefits such as health insurance
81
2/23/2026 13:24:22Development Manager & Grantwriter NonprofitFull Time50,00011-15 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsYes, I currently doBenefits are offered. Compensation is not keeping abreast with the industry nor the region in which the job is located.
82
2/23/2026 13:36:45Collections ManagerNonprofitFull Time55,0005 years or lessBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)Not at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsLiving in DC making this little is not sustainable, and there is very little room for upward mobility.
83
2/23/2026 13:38:13Historic Preservation OfficerGovernmentFull Time$132,609 $63.51/hour26-30 yearsBiweeklyFar West (CA, NV, OR, WA, AK, HI)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsHealthcare benefits, pension, lots of time off. I think that I could be paid more to bring me in line with other department heads at the City.
84
2/23/2026 13:40:36ArchivistGovernmentFull Time$120,0006-10 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsOne of the benefits of working for the federal government used to be the security, but it seems that's being chipped away. However, I love the work and my colleagues and I believe deeply in the mission of being a public servant. I lucked out with this position and barring something major, I'll probably be here until I retire.
85
2/23/2026 13:45:26Communications SpecialistNonprofitFull Time$36/hr5 years or lessBiweeklyFar West (CA, NV, OR, WA, AK, HI)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI love my colleagues and the work we do, but I can't say I'm happy with my current position. I do have benefits, and one of the reasons I haven't left my job is how much I rely on having health insurance. However, I feel burnt out every week from my workload - and feel the cumulative exhaustion of that too. I'm frustrated at being considered admin/support to programs when communications is crucial to the work our programs do and that the organization as a whole does. I'm not sure how my compensation compares to others in the larger field - I don't really know a lot of other cultural resources communications professionals. I've gotten salary raises, but when departmental capacity doesn't get built out, it doesn't feel like it's fair pay for my labor. There's a lot of talk about "efficiency" across the org, which sometimes feels like a euphemism for getting staff to feel better about having to do more work in the same amount of time and is one example of how nonprofits often mirror the labor exploitation of the commercial sector.
86
2/23/2026 13:47:25Archaeology Lab ManagerConsultingFull Time$32/hour6-10 yearsOn the 16th and the last day of each monthSouth East (GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsBenefits (including 10% 401k match after 1 year, employer paid health insurance)
87
2/23/2026 13:48:15communications directorNonprofitFull Time82,0006-10 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsbenefits include PTO + holidays, health and dental insurance. frustrated by a lack of room to grow. always keeping on eye out on job listings, but not actively looking
88
2/23/2026 13:49:00Historic Preservation Specialist - Above Ground Environmental Review SpecialistGovernmentFull Time58,00011-15 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI work in my state's historic preservation office as a Section 106 reviewer and I would say I have good benefits and also am in a union. I am very happy with my current position having spent a decade as a cultural resources consultant for two engineering firms and an environmental firm. I took a significant pay cut to take this position; however, I was completely burned out by consulting and needed a change for my mental health.
89
2/23/2026 13:49:50Museum Specialist (Registrar) GovernmentFull Time$88,281/ 42.3011-15 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)Not at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsMy role offers full benefits (health/dental/retirement). We used to have telework, but that was taken away. We do however can have very flexible schedules (maxiflex, 4/10s, 5-4-9s, etc). Overall, I am satisfied, however at my current organization it is frustrating to see museum staff capped in terms of growth, while archivists have much more potential for growth, when we do very similar work.
90
2/23/2026 14:12:58EHP Specialist GovernmentFull Time131,80026-30 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)Yes, I currently doNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsBenefits, but currently angst ridden due to the state of the FED government
91
2/23/2026 14:20:20Preservation technician and Research analystAcademiaFull Time$52,00011-15 yearsBiweeklyRocky Mountain (ID, MT, WY, UT, CO)Not at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsBenefits are amazing and my job and boss a great but I’m frustrated that it seems like I am unable to get a position elsewhere due to the current job climate in this field.
92
2/23/2026 14:21:45Crew chief in a college arch services department GovernmentInconsistent work due to structure of position$20/hr6-10 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI’m a full time grad student who works my position part time school year/full time summers, so ignore if I don’t fit the kind of data you need
93
2/23/2026 14:27:47Historian GovernmentFull Time9846011-15 yearsBiweeklySouth Central (AR, LA, MO, MS, TN, KY, AL)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo
94
2/23/2026 14:42:05Education coordinator NonprofitFull Time$25.72/hour ($46,810/year before taxes)6-10 yearsBiweeklyPlains (ND, SD, NE, KS, MN, IA)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI have decent benefits, vacation, and sick time. I credit some of that to my union. I had to move across the country so I’m happy to have a job (took me 9 months to get a stable full time position), but I’m hoping to move up and re- myself at the managerial level. I think I’m underpaid for what I do and given the cost of living in my city.
95
2/23/2026 14:45:08Executive Director of a Main Street Program NonprofitFull Time$61,2006-10 yearsBiweeklySouth Central (AR, LA, MO, MS, TN, KY, AL)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNonprofit. No benefits except for PTO.
96
2/23/2026 15:07:06collge professorAcademiaFull Time$71,00026-30 yearsMonthlySouth Central (AR, LA, MO, MS, TN, KY, AL)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsyes/it's acceptable/no/frustrated/acceptably, but not fairly paid
97
2/23/2026 15:24:59Collections and Archives ManagerNonprofitFull Time57,000 salary per year11-15 yearsBiweeklyGreat Lakes (WI, IL, IN, MI, OH)Yes, I currently doNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsBenefits and work life balance is better than most. Salary is still below the national average. Health insurance premiums are covered for the employee by the employer, and 30% of children’s health insurance premiums. Although it is a high deductible plan, which limits how we can afford healthcare and prescriptions outside of covered prevent preventative care. I genuinely enjoy and feel fulfilled in my career. I am always open-minded about new opportunities though. Side hustle work is still needed to cover basic living expenses as I am a single parent with only this one income.
98
2/23/2026 15:27:08Objects Conservator GovernmentFull Time51,4186-10 yearsBiweeklyCanadaNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsNot at this time, but I have within the past 5-yearsI love my job; we have great insurance here; I am not looking elsewhere for a job; I’m satisfied professionally here.

In general the field is incredibly under paid. The amount of responsibility we, conservators, take on by conserving and looking after priceless national significant artifacts and literal treasures of huge cultural importance, does not align with the amount of pay we compensated with at all. The salary most conservators get in Canada would barely allow them to rent let alone buy a house, raise a family, have a car.
99
2/23/2026 15:38:44Program OfficerGovernmentFull Time99,30016-20 yearsBiweeklyMideast (DC, MD, DE, NJ, PA, NY)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsI have very good public sector benefits and enjoy my job. There is limited opportunity for advancement though.
100
2/23/2026 15:50:01Architectural HistorianConsultingFull Time76000 salary, 36.44/hr5 years or lessBiweeklyPlains (ND, SD, NE, KS, MN, IA)No, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsNo, I do not and have not within the past 5-yearsAccrued pro, 401k, base-rate overtime(salaried employee), other benefits. Happy with company and current position. Compensation seems fair for demographic and experience, though people with less experience are getting hired at comparable rates and I don't think my pay is being increased to accommodate for that.