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Fossil Excavation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BHI Energy

GROUNDSMAN

Homestead, FL · On-site

$20/hr

... Fossil operations. With this lies a very sensitive ecological system due to its location between ... Someone who can operate forklifts, skid steers, & mini-excavators, Dozers, Long reach Excavators ...

SWCA, Incorporated

... use excavation tools * Must have a valid driver's license and a good driving record; and must comply with SWCA safety policies In addition, the following skills are preferred: * Fossil preparation ...

SWCA, Incorporated

Staff Paleontologist

Pasadena, CA · On-site

... use excavation tools * Must have a valid driver's license and a good driving record; and must comply with SWCA safety policies In addition, the following skills are preferred: * Fossil preparation ...

Energy Solutions, LLC

Excavation, trenching, and backfill operations. * Foundations, footings, and anchor bolt ... Experience in commercial nuclear power, DOE facilities, fossil generation, heavy industrial ...

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Fossil Excavation information

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How much do fossil excavation jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for fossil excavation in the United States is $22.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is fossil excavation?

Fossil excavation is the process of carefully uncovering and removing fossils from the ground, often at paleontological dig sites. This work involves identifying promising locations, using specialized tools to remove rock and sediment, and documenting the find to preserve important scientific information. Fossil excavators work meticulously to avoid damaging the fossils and often collaborate with paleontologists and other experts to study the remains. The goal is to recover fossils for scientific research, education, and museum displays.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fossil excavation specialist?

To thrive in fossil excavation, you need a solid background in geology, paleontology, or archaeology, often supported by a relevant degree and fieldwork experience. Familiarity with excavation tools, GPS mapping systems, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong attention to detail, patience, and teamwork are essential soft skills for managing delicate finds and collaborating on-site. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate fossil recovery, preservation, and scientific integrity in challenging field conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by fossil excavation teams in the field?

Fossil excavation teams often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and logistical issues related to transporting delicate specimens. Additionally, careful coordination is required to ensure proper documentation and preservation of fossils, as improper handling can lead to damage or loss of scientific value. Team members must collaborate closely, balancing physical excavation work with detailed recording and adherence to safety protocols.

What is the difference between Fossil Excavation vs Paleontologist?

AspectFossil ExcavationPaleontologist
CredentialsField experience, geology or archaeology backgroundAdvanced degree in paleontology, geology, or related field
Work EnvironmentField sites, excavation sites, remote locationsLaboratories, museums, field sites
Industry UsagePrimarily involved in excavation and recovery of fossilsResearch, analysis, and interpretation of fossils

Fossil Excavation focuses on the physical process of uncovering fossils at excavation sites, often requiring fieldwork and physical labor. Paleontologists analyze and interpret fossils, often after excavation, to understand prehistoric life. While fossil excavators gather the specimens, paleontologists study them to draw scientific conclusions. Both roles are essential in paleontology but differ mainly in their focus: excavation versus research and analysis.

How to become a fossil excavation specialist?

To become a fossil excavation specialist, individuals typically need a background in geology, paleontology, or archaeology, often obtained through a bachelor's degree or higher. Practical experience through fieldwork, internships, or volunteering is essential, along with knowledge of excavation tools and techniques. Certifications in safety and excavation procedures can also enhance job prospects.

What other helpful pages are available for Fossil Excavation?

Other pages related to Fossil Excavation:

Infographic showing various Fossil Excavation job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,598 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

On Call Paleontologist (Paleontological Resource Monitor)

Tempe, AZ • On-site

WSP
Civil Engineering Construction • 10K+ employees
Learn more about WSPexternal

$37.65 - $60.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

WSP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


This Opportunity
WSP is currently seeking an On Call Paleontological Resource Monitor (PRM) to support construction monitoring projects within Southern California. This position is responsible for conducting field monitoring for paleontological resources during construction for compliance with California Energy Commission (CEC) Conditions of Certification, CEQA, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
Your Impact
  • Conduct paleontological monitoring during ground-disturbing activities
  • Identify, evaluate, and document paleontological resources
  • Maintain daily monitoring logs and field documentation
  • Coordinate with construction crews and environmental compliance staff
  • Implement avoidance and mitigation measures
  • Assist in fossil recovery, stabilization, and collection
  • Support preparation of reports and documentation
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Who You Are
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Geology, Paleontology, Archaeology, Anthropology, historic preservation, or a related field.
  • 3 to 5 years of relevant post-education experience working in paleontological fieldwork to include site recordation, survey, construction monitoring, and excavation.
  • 1 year of paleontological monitoring experience (California preferred)
  • Working knowledge of geologic units and fossil identification
  • Demonstrated ability to work in construction environments
  • Strong communication and written documentation skills.
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working on CEC or large infrastructure projects
  • Familiarity with SVP standards and PRPA requirements
  • 40-Hour OSHA Health & Safety Training (HAZWOPER) (29 CFR 1910.120) preferred.
  • Basic First Aid and Adult CPR training desired.

WSP Benefits:
WSP provides a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on a providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career. These benefits include coverage related to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life; retirement savings; paid sick leave; paid vacation (or other personal time); paid parental leave; and paid time off for purposes of bereavement, voting, and/or attendance at naturalization proceedings.
Compensation:
Expected Salary (all locations): $37.65 - $60.25 per hour
WSP USA is providing the compensation range that the company in good faith believes it might pay and offer for this position, based on the successful applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities in addition to internal equity and specific geographic location. WSP USA reserves the right to ultimately pay more or less than the posted range and offer additional benefits and other compensation, depending on circumstances not related to an applicant's sex or other status protected by local, state, and/or federal law.
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