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Fossils Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Fossils information

See Utah salary details

$11

$13

$15

How much do fossils jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for fossils in Utah is $13.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.12 and $14.42 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.

Infographic showing various Fossils job openings in Utah as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,529 per year, or $13.7 per hour.

Field Paleontologist - Project Geologist

Utah Division of Human Resource Management

Salt Lake City, UT

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Key responsibilities and day to day responsibilities of this position:

  • Oversee fossil preparation in UGS preparation lab by insuring equipment is operational, preparing significant fossils, overseeing volunteers, organizing the transfer of prepared specimens into appropriate repositories.
    Supervise paleontological field work by overseeing base camp operations, excavations, volunteers, collecting field data, and creating digital paleontological locality files.
  • Perform geologic field work that includes putting paleontological field data into geological context stratigraphically and geographically.
  • Prepare paleontological permit applications, supporting materials, and final reports for federal and state agencies as needed working with State Paleontologist.
  • Review paleontological reports and publications for UGS, external scientists, and students.
    Address review comments and complete reports on time for contract deliverables, provide timely reviews of geologic publications in collaboration with other UGS staff and outside geoscientists.
  • Work closely with the State Paleontologist to address issues related to paleontological resource management on public lands.
  • Develop paleontological and geologic expertise for Utah and share this expertise via conferences, publishing, and public interaction.
  • Collaborate with other Utah Geological Survey staff and external scientists investigating the geological heritage of Utah.