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Entry Level Fossil Preparation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Golden, CO

Golf Maintenance Worker I

Golden, CO · On-site

$23.27 - $25/hr

Fossil Trace Maintenance, 3150 Illinois Street, Golden, CO Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 2026 ... Golf Maintenance Worker I: Entry level position JOB SUMMARY Studies golf course presentation daily ...

American Electric Power

Station Engineer

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$74K - $128K/yr

... fossil or nuclear plant operations, etc. Leadership & Guidance: Influences the direction of ... Leads in the preparation and presentation of complex technical subjects, clearly, concisely, and ...

Aep

Station Engineer

Tulsa, OK

$74K - $128K/yr

... fossil or nuclear plant operations, etc. Leadership & Guidance: Influences the direction of ... Leads in the preparation and presentation of complex technical subjects, clearly, concisely, and ...

Manus Bio

Mechanical Designer

Augusta, GA

... fossil fuels. Our platform is proven to work across scales, bridging the Valley of Death between ... RFQ preparation and participation in FATs/SATs. * Coordinate with contractors and construction ...

All JobsEntry Level Fossil Preparation Jobs

Entry Level Fossil Preparation information

See salary details

$14

$26

$79

How much do entry level fossil preparation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level fossil preparation in the United States is $26.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is needed to prep fossils as a beginner?

Entry level fossil preparation requires basic knowledge of fossil types and preservation, along with skills in using tools such as fine brushes, dental picks, and air scribes. Training in safety procedures and attention to detail are essential, and familiarity with laboratory environments can be beneficial for effective fossil cleaning and preservation.

How to get into fossil preparation?

To get into fossil preparation as an entry-level fossil preparator, gain knowledge of geology, paleontology, and laboratory techniques through relevant coursework or training. Developing skills in using tools like air scribes and micro sandblasters, along with attention to detail and patience, is essential; internships or volunteering at museums or research institutions can provide practical experience.

Do you need a license to dig for fossils?

For entry level fossil preparation jobs, a license to dig for fossils is generally not required, but regulations vary by location. Permits or permissions from landowners or authorities may be necessary if collecting on public or private land, and knowledge of local laws is important. Fossil collecting often involves adherence to legal and ethical guidelines to ensure proper preservation and conservation.

What are entry level fossil preparation jobs?

Entry level fossil preparation jobs involve assisting in the cleaning, stabilization, and restoration of fossils for research, display, or educational purposes. These roles often include tasks such as removing rock matrix from fossils, repairing broken specimens, and cataloging finds under the supervision of experienced preparators or paleontologists. Typically, entry level fossil preparators work in museums, academic institutions, or at excavation sites, and may use hand tools, microscopes, and specialized adhesives. Training is usually provided on the job, but a background in geology, biology, or related sciences can be helpful. Attention to detail and manual dexterity are important qualities for success in this field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Fossil Preparation vs Entry Level Paleontologist?

AspectEntry Level Fossil PreparationEntry Level Paleontologist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree, training in fossil handlingBachelor's degree in geology, paleontology, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, museum, or field sites focusing on fossil cleaning and preservationFieldwork, research labs, museums, analyzing fossils and geological data
Employer & Industry UsageMuseums, research institutions, universitiesResearch institutions, universities, museums, government agencies

Entry Level Fossil Preparation involves cleaning and preserving fossils, often requiring specialized training but less formal education. Entry Level Paleontologist focuses on studying fossils, conducting research, and fieldwork, typically requiring a degree in a related field. Both roles are essential in paleontology but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level fossil preparators, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level fossil preparators often encounter challenges such as handling delicate specimens without causing damage, learning to use specialized tools, and accurately distinguishing between fossil material and surrounding matrix. Overcoming these challenges requires patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn from experienced colleagues. Many preparators benefit from close supervision and hands-on training, as well as developing a strong understanding of fossil preservation techniques and laboratory safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Fossil Preparation Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Fossil Preparation Technician, you need a keen eye for detail, steady hand-eye coordination, and a basic understanding of paleontology or related sciences, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with laboratory tools such as air scribes, micro-jacks, and consolidants, as well as safety protocols, is commonly required. Patience, meticulousness, and the ability to follow detailed instructions are essential soft skills in this role. These skills ensure fossils are prepared accurately and preserved for scientific study, contributing to research and museum collections.
More about Entry Level Fossil Preparation jobs
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Entry Level Fossil Preparation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Fossil Preparation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,594 per year, or $26.7 per hour.
Plant Operator Trainee - Montour

Plant Operator Trainee - Montour

Talen Energy

Washingtonville, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Talen Energy rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Fossil Specialist Trainee is an entry-level position into the Fossil Specialist progression line within plant operations at the Montour plant. The Fossil Specialist Trainee is a member of an operating crew presently working 12 hour rotating shifts.
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:
  • Observes operating conditions of plant equipment as reflected by instruments, gauges, controls, and visual observations. Takes periodic readings reflecting performance of equipment, record data, runs required tests, interpret results, performs adjustments and corrections, as necessary, to ensure equipment is operating properly, and places equipment in service and removes equipment from service as required or as directed.
  • Diagnoses trouble, performs repairs, tests, inspects, lubricates, cleans, and maintains all equipment. Performs structural or equipment installation, machining duties of all types requiring the highest level of skill including but not limited to valve seats, discs, valve stems, and alignment on equipment such as turbines, generators, pumps, fans and couplings which includes the use of rigging for any of the above. Performs layout of piping systems on air, water, steam, oil, and gas lines, etc. as defined on drawings, sketches, or specifications with limited direction.
  • Performs other specific duties as assigned, such as: admits hydrogen to generators, transfers NH3, performs welding on boiler tubes or power piping, performs burning and cutting operations, basic machining, etc. Installs and removes insulation.
  • Operates equipment such as gantry cranes, hydraulic/friction cranes, auxiliary mounted equipment, man lifts, trenchers, skid loaders, backhoes, fork lifts, and permanently mounted hoists.
  • Assists in developing and implementation of work packages, labor estimates, material requests, contract requisitions and plant procedures to determine appropriate manpower, equipment, and all materials are available to complete assigned work in a timely manner which can also involve interfacing and interacting with vendors.
  • Under the direction of a Competent Person erects self-supporting scaffolds of any height. Performs work from self-supporting structures of any height including full boiler scaffolding. Performs work from hanging scaffolds, man lifts, spiders, or similar support devices up to a height of 75 feet. Operates and works from aerial devices such as: bucket or platform trucks and various hydraulic telescoping man-lifts (up to 175' height rating)
  • Performs carpentry, concrete, painting, rail, and excavating work. Supplies and transfers tools and equipment by handling ropes, tying knots, and doing simple rigging and hoisting.
  • Performs switching, submits clearance requests and holds clearance orders in performance of the above-mentioned work
  • Performs paperwork and uses computer-based systems associated with job duties
  • Keeps personal and shop tools and equipment in good working order and maintains good housekeeping and safety in the working areas.
  • Maintains thorough knowledge and complies with appropriate safety related plans and procedures such as safety meetings, Job Safety Analyses, tailboards.
  • Reads and interprets drawings, prints, diagrams, etc., and makes sketches and diagrams to facilitate work. Updates, revises and submits changes as required. Performs routine cleaning, steam cleaning, parts cleaning, and vacuuming as required.
  • Performs such other related duties as assigned or as necessary

MINIMUM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
  • High school education or equivalent
  • Fossil Specialist Trainee must successfully pass EEI Plant Operator Selection System (POSS) exam or its replacement
  • Thorough knowledge of Safety Rules, tools and materials used in the performance of the above duties.
  • Demonstrated ability to understand and interpret drawings, specifications, and instructions pertaining to equipment, and to prepare legible and accurate reports
  • Working knowledge of computer-based systems pertaining to the job.
  • Motor vehicle operator's license
  • Ability to organize, plan, schedule, and direct work and other employees, including learning and implementing new work methods.
  • Ability to obtain/maintain switching and holder authority.
  • Satisfactory physical condition to perform manual labor work in and out of doors, at times under adverse working conditions.
  • Must be medically and physically capable of wearing approved respiratory equipment in accordance with governmental regulations and company respiratory programs.
  • Ability to attain NERC clearance.

Job Performance: Performance is satisfactory when:
  • Thorough knowledge of equipment, maintenance practices, and operating instructions as related to control systems, boiler, turbine and generator units, auxiliaries, piping systems, station electrical systems, switchyards, tie-lines, feeders, and environmental controls.
  • Ability to follow rules and procedures for the operation and maintenance of equipment and to make decisions of a complex nature. Alertness to detect and report abnormal operating conditions.
  • Extensive experience in the operation and maintenance of station equipment, sufficient to understand the function of each unit of equipment and its relation to the overall operation of the plant.
  • Ability to analyze abnormal operating conditions quickly and make prompt decisions based on analysis and judgement.
  • Sufficient manual skill to obtain accurate and precise regulations and adjustments of equipment by means of push buttons, small levers, knobs, etc.
  • Coordination and sustained mental attention required in operation and maintenance of equipment.
  • Alertness in observation of hazards and prevention of accidents.
  • Thorough knowledge of safety rules applicable to work performed.
  • Cooperation with associates.

Note: You will have an opportunity to add attachments to your application. Please use this opportunity to upload your resume, cover letter, and any relevant documents .

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