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Fossils Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Fossils information

See Indiana salary details

$11

$14

$15

How much do fossils jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for fossils in Indiana is $14.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $15.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How hard is it to find a job in paleontology?

Finding a job in paleontology can be competitive due to limited positions and high educational requirements, often requiring a master's or Ph.D. degree. Opportunities are typically found in academia, museums, or research institutions, and gaining experience through internships or fieldwork can improve job prospects.

Is paleontology a well-paying job?

Paleontology jobs tend to have modest salaries, with many positions in academia or museums offering lower pay compared to other scientific fields. Salaries can vary based on experience, education, and location, but generally, paleontologists earn a median annual salary around $60,000, with higher earnings possible in private industry or consulting roles.

What is the job called when you look for fossils?

The job of looking for fossils is called paleontology or fossil hunting, typically performed by paleontologists. These professionals study fossils to understand prehistoric life and often work in the field, using tools like brushes and excavation equipment, and may require a background in geology or biology.

What is a Fossils job?

A Fossils job typically involves the study, collection, and preservation of fossils to understand ancient life forms and Earth's history. Professionals in this field, such as paleontologists or fossil preparators, work in museums, research institutions, or fossil excavation sites. Responsibilities can include excavating fossil specimens, analyzing their characteristics, and contributing to scientific research or public education. Some roles also focus on fossil restoration, identification, and classification.

What jobs involve fossils?

Jobs involving fossils include paleontologists, who study ancient life through fossil analysis, and fossil preparators, who clean and preserve fossils in laboratories or museums. These roles often require knowledge of geology, biology, and the use of specialized tools and techniques for excavation and conservation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Fossils position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a paleontologist specializing in fossils, you need a solid background in geology, biology, and earth sciences, typically supported by at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Experience with laboratory equipment, GIS mapping software, and fossil preparation tools is often required, along with specialized training or certification in field research methods. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills are highly valued in this field. These competencies are critical for accurately uncovering, analyzing, and interpreting fossil evidence within collaborative research settings.

What does a typical workday look like for someone working with fossils?

A typical day for a fossil specialist can vary depending on the area of focus but often includes a combination of laboratory analysis, fossil preparation, fieldwork, and data documentation. In the lab, you might clean, catalog, and study specimens using microscopes and specialized tools, while fieldwork could involve excavating and collecting fossils at dig sites, sometimes in remote locations. Collaboration with geologists, archaeologists, and museum staff is common, as findings need to be shared and discussed within interdisciplinary teams. Many positions also involve creating reports or presenting research at conferences, providing opportunities for professional networking and growth. The balance between lab and fieldwork offers a dynamic and engaging work environment for those passionate about ancient life and earth history.

What are popular job titles related to Fossils jobs in Indiana? For Fossils jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Property Assistant Manager

Property Assistant Manager

State of Indiana

Brookville, IN • On-site

$53K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


State Of Indiana rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 185 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 50 rated states


Job description

 Work for Indiana

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.

About Brookville Lake:
A part of the Brookville Lake - Whitewater Memorial State Park Complex, Brookville Reservoir lies in the historic east fork of the Whitewater River Valley. Traces of prehistoric Native American mounds are still found throughout this valley. The area is known by some worldwide for its significant deposit of Ordovician fossils. These 450-million-year-old fossils, reminders of a primeval inland sea, can still be seen.  The lake property has more than 25 miles of hiking trails, boating opportunities, and nationally known recreational and sport fishing. Two beaches and more than 400 campsites make this an ideal family vacation spot. Brookville Lake is home to two State Recreation Areas: Mounds SRA and Quakertown SRA.

Salary:

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $53,222.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.

A Day in the Life:

The essential functions of this role are as follows:

  • Responsible for overseeing daily operations of a mid to large sized DNR property in the absence of and in coordination with the property manager.
  • Assist with planning, coordinating, implementing, and directing the natural resource management, cultural/historic resource management, fish & wildlife management, fish culture, and/or timber management practices and procedures.
  • Assist with the planning, coordinating, implementing, and directing public use activities on the property which may include hunting, wildlife viewing, camping, hiking, swimming, boating, biking, off-road vehicle driving, etc.
  • May direct, supervise, inspect, and monitor Inn maintenance, construction projects and repairs.
  • Assist in the development, implementation and tracking of a biennial budget and administrates operating, preventive maintenance and rehabilitation funds to facilitate operations under direction of the property manager. 
  • Direct and monitor construction, maintenance and repair projects using both in-house, temporary and contract labor.
  • May be responsible for, upon receiving direction from the property manager, reporting, directing, monitoring, reconciling, and reporting revenue and fee collection(s), donations, change funds, resale accounts, etc.
  • May assist the property manager with operation of a camping program that might include multiple types of camping, campgrounds and / or many camp sites.  Responsibilities include sales, revenue collection, central reservation system operation and troubleshooting, customer service, entrance control, and visitor services.
  • Represent the property and department with local partnerships and organizations by attending meetings and events that benefit the facility both in cooperation with the property manager and as the manager’s proxy.
  • Assist with overseeing and evaluating interpretive services including naturalist, educational programming and general programming for visitors, school groups and off-site locations on natural and cultural history, display development and maintenance of interpretive signage, and operations of a visitor center.
  • Required to serve in on call status for emergency response.
  • Monitors security and safety operations provided by property personnel and makes decisions on when law enforcement and/or other emergency services are required in conjunction with or in the absence of the property manager.
  • Ensure the safe operation and maintenance of heavy vehicles, heavy equipment, light trucks and cars, commercial mowing equipment, farm equipment, power equipment and hand tools.
  • Recruit, select, onboard, and train employees to ensure role responsibilities and expectations are clearly understood while providing opportunities to continue professional development.
  • Set expectations, measure progress, provide ongoing feedback, and evaluate the performance of employees. Ensure work adheres to quality standards, deadlines, and proper procedures.  

The job profile is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours which may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and/or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary.

What You'll Need for Success:

You must meet the following requirements to be considered for employment: 

  • Must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources, Fish & Wildlife Management, Forestry, Biology, Business Administration, Recreation, or a closely related field.
  • Be willing to travel with reasonable accommodation. 
  • Required to live onsite when housing is available.
  • Required to be “on call” 24 hours a day.
  • Working knowledge of best practices in regards to resource management.
  • Ability to hire, direct, train, develop, motivate, discipline and evaluate a diverse range of employees with varying levels of skill to meet operational demands.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with superiors, staff, visitors, customers, media, special interest groups, vendors and other governmental agencies to promote department and division goals, satisfy needs of the organization, and to present a positive public image.
  • Working knowledge of current and historical construction methods, construction management and construction industry standards to include: excavating, aggregate, concrete, carpentry (framing through finish), electrical, plumbing, HVAC, code compliance and safety, etc.
  • Working knowledge and ability to supervise the operation, maintenance and repair of construction equipment, commercial mowing equipment, light trucks and sedans, power and hand tools.
  • Working knowledge of and the ability to apply the principles of recreation management, forestry, and fish & wildlife science to meet goals and objectives.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in directing property operations according to established guidelines.
  • Possess organizational skills in planning and coordinating a variety of projects simultaneously.
  • Ability to maintain strict adherence to confidential requests, especially when dealing with personnel issues.
  • Ability to delegate work, set clear direction, and manage workflow.
  • Ability to effectively give feedback, provide guidance or corrective action, coach, and develop employee skillsets.
  • Able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may provide direct supervision for one or more staff members.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes: 

  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
  • Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
  • Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
    • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
    • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
  • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
  • 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Group life insurance
  • Referral Bonus program
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Free Parking for most positions
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:

The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.


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