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Full Time Paleontology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Mesa, AZ

Museum Curator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

PO Box 1466, Mesa, AZ Job Type: Full Time Job Number: 17463 Department: (H400)Arts and Culture ... Museum Studies, Anthropology, Biology, Geology, Paleontology, or a closely related area and ...

City of Waco, TX

Historic Site Assistant

Waco, TX · On-site

$18.43/hr

Waco, TX Job Type: Full Time Job Number: 2026-01226 Department: PARKS & RECREATION Division: PARKS ... Associate's degree in history, Archeology, Paleontology, Business, Public Administration, or a ...

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City of Waco, TX

Historic Site Manager

Waco, TX · On-site

$58K/yr

Waco, TX Job Type: Full Time Job Number: 2026-01212 Department: PARKS & RECREATION Division: PARKS ... Bachelor's degree in history, Museum Management, Archeology, Paleontology, Business, Public ...

State of Virginia

Earth Science Teacher

Chesterfield, VA · On-site

$72K - $76K/yr

Earth Science Teacher Apply now Job no: 5107515 Work type: Full-Time (Salaried) Location ... paleontology, oceanography, meteorology, and astronomy/space science; or (3) Earned an endorsement ...

University of Utah

Administration Management

Campus, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

No Standard Hours per Week 40 Full Time or Part Time? Full Time Shift Day Work Schedule Summary M-F ... in Paleontology, Archaeology, Ethnography, and Biology of the west. NHMU also manages the Range ...

University of Utah

Administration Management

Campus, IL

$100K - $130K/yr

No Standard Hours per Week 40 Full Time or Part Time? Full Time Shift Day Work Schedule Summary M-F ... in Paleontology, Archaeology, Ethnography, and Biology of the west. NHMU also manages the Range ...

University of Utah

Administration Management

Campus, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

No Standard Hours per Week 40 Full Time or Part Time? Full Time Shift Day Work Schedule Summary M-F ... in Paleontology, Archaeology, Ethnography, and Biology of the west. NHMU also manages the Range ...

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Full Time Paleontology information

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How much do full time paleontology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time paleontology in the United States is $17.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a full-time paleontologist do?

A full-time paleontologist studies the history of life on Earth through the examination of fossils, such as bones, plants, and footprints. Their work often involves conducting fieldwork to find and excavate fossils, analyzing specimens in laboratories, and publishing research findings. Full-time paleontologists may also teach at universities, work in museums, or assist in environmental and geological surveys. Their research helps us understand evolution, ancient environments, and past climates.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full-time paleontologist?

To thrive as a full-time paleontologist, you typically need a strong background in geology, biology, and earth sciences, often with an advanced degree such as a master's or PhD in paleontology or a related field. Familiarity with fossil preparation tools, GIS mapping software, stratigraphic analysis, and laboratory techniques is essential, along with fieldwork experience. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication skills help you analyze findings, solve complex problems, and share discoveries with both scientific and public audiences. These skills and qualities are crucial for conducting rigorous research, making significant scientific contributions, and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by full-time paleontologists in the field and how can they be addressed?

Full-time paleontologists often encounter challenges such as difficult working conditions during fieldwork, including extreme weather, remote locations, and physically demanding tasks like excavating fossils. Additionally, securing funding for research and balancing time between fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and publishing findings can be demanding. Addressing these challenges often involves thorough preparation, developing strong teamwork skills, and seeking collaboration with other researchers and institutions. Building a diverse skill set in both field and analytical techniques, as well as pursuing professional networking opportunities, can also help paleontologists succeed and advance in their careers.

What is the difference between Full Time Paleontology vs Full Time Archaeology?

AspectFull Time PaleontologyFull Time Archaeology
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Paleontology, Geology, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Archaeology, Anthropology, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, fossil sites, museumsExcavation sites, museums, research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, museums, government agenciesUniversities, cultural heritage organizations, museums
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Full Time Paleontology and Full Time Archaeology share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, often involving research, excavation, and museum work. The main difference lies in their focus: paleontology studies ancient life fossils, while archaeology examines human history through artifacts. Both careers require relevant degrees and offer opportunities in research institutions and museums.

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Cities with the most Full Time Paleontology job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Paleontology jobs?

The most popular types of Paleontology jobs are:

What states have the most Full Time Paleontology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Full Time Paleontology jobs include:

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Full Time Paleontology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Paleontology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 26% Full Time, 60% Part Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,392 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Paleontology Section Manager

State of North Dakota

Bismarck, ND • On-site

$8.0K - $9.8K/mo

Full-time

Medical

Posted 15 days ago

State Of North Dakota rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 50 rated states

Job description

The North Dakota (ND) Geological Survey Division of the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) has an opening for a Paleontology Section Manager based in the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum on the ND Capitol Grounds in Bismarck, North Dakota.
The North Dakota Geological Survey (NDGS) publishes maps and reports on ND's mineral, paleontological, and geochemical resources, including oil, gas, coal, uranium, clay, sand and gravel, volcanic ash, potash, other mineral deposits, and the state's surface geology. NDGS also regulates coal exploration; subsurface mineral exploration and development covering all minerals and compounds other than oil, gas, sand, gravel, and coal; commercial and residential geothermal facilities; and paleontological resources on state owned lands. https://www.dmr.nd.gov/dmr/ndgs
About the Paleontology Section
The Paleontology Section of the North Dakota Geological Survey (NDGS) manages the ND State Fossil Collection, develops paleontology exhibits statewide, and works with state and federal partners to protect North Dakota's paleontological resources. The Section Manager oversees three full-time staff, seasonal employees, and all paleontology collections and laboratory spaces.
Summary of Work
The Paleontology Section Manager leads a collaborative, education focused team and fosters a positive, goal oriented work environment. This role directs NDGS's Public Fossil Dig Program at multiple statewide field sites each summer, conducts additional year-round field surveys and excavations, and communicates the program's work to diverse audiences across multiple platforms.
The Manager reviews proposed infrastructure projects for potential impacts to paleontological resources, recommends mitigation strategies when needed, and issues permits for paleontological work on state owned or state managed lands.
The successful candidate will lead an active research program focused on ND paleontology, promoting collaboration with outside researchers, including presenting at scientific conferences, and publishing peer reviewed papers, publications, and articles on paleontological research.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Master's Degree in Geology, Biology, Zoology, Life Sciences or closely related Paleontology field.
  • Demonstrated experience communicating scientific topics in paleontology or geology to diverse audiences, verifying strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proven ability to organize and lead paleontological fieldwork.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license and auto insurance.

Preferred Qualifications
Additional Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Include:
  • PhD in Geology, Biology, Zoology, Life Sciences or closely related Paleontology field.
  • Experience managing paleontology staff and budgets.
  • Experience working in a museum environment.
  • Strong paleontology publication record, with at least 5 first authored publications
  • Experience collaborating with state and federal partners to evaluate and protect paleontological resources
  • Experience 3D scanning and/or 3D printing fossils
  • Experience operating vehicles on unpaved roads and towing trailers

About Team ND
"Far and away the best prize life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing." - Theodore Roosevelt
More than 7,500 talented, hard-working people across sixty-three agencies have come together as Team North Dakota. At Team ND, we are driven to succeed through gratitude, humility, curiosity and courage. Our purpose is to empower people, improve lives, and inspire success. Join us in being legendary.
Total Rewards: The State of North Dakota is committed to providing team memberswith a strong and competitive rewards package that support you, your health and your family.
Considering a new position on Team ND? How does your current position stack up? Use our Total Rewards Calculator to estimate.
Application Procedures
Applicants must complete an online application via the State of ND Careers site by 11:59 p.m. on the closing date.
Detailed questions related to previous publications and the fit of your research to the ND fossil record will need to be provided within the application.
Documents Below Must be Attached to Application:
  • Resume
  • Cover letter
  • Unofficial College Transcripts
  • A list of 3 or more professional references with contact information
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The ND Department of Mineral Resources does not provide sponsorships. Due to access to restricted information, the successful candidate will be required to complete a satisfactory criminal background check.
For more information about the position contact: Clint Boyd at caboyd@nd.gov or 701-328-8163. For accommodation or assistance in the application or interview process, please contact Lynn Burgard at lyburgard@nd.gov or 701-328-4737.
Agency Specific
What can we offer you?
  • Salary: $8,000 - $9,833 per month ($96,000 - $118,000 annually)
  • The opportunity to lead a collaborative team of dedicated paleontologists working to document, research, and protect North Dakota's paleontological resources.
  • A flexible, self-directed work routine with occasional evenings and weekend work required
  • Work in a well-equipped lab and collections facility, in the wonderful capital city of ND
  • Excellent Benefits including 100% employer paid family health insurance

Equal Employment Opportunity
The State of North Dakota and this hiring agency do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), genetics, religion, age or disability in employment or the provisions of services and complies with the provisions of the North Dakota Human Rights Act.
As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. § 23-12-10.

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