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Internship Paleontology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Utah

Administration Management

Campus, IL

$100K - $130K/yr

... interns; and volunteers. NHMU's natural and cultural history collections comprise more than two million objects, with notable strengths in Paleontology, Archaeology, Ethnography, and Biology of the ...

University of Utah

Administration Management

Campus, IL

$100K - $130K/yr

... interns; and volunteers. NHMU's natural and cultural history collections comprise more than two million objects, with notable strengths in Paleontology, Archaeology, Ethnography, and Biology of the ...

University of Utah

Administration Management

Campus, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

... interns; and volunteers. NHMU's natural and cultural history collections comprise more than two million objects, with notable strengths in Paleontology, Archaeology, Ethnography, and Biology of the ...

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Internship Paleontology information

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$15

$21

How much do internship paleontology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship paleontology in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an internship paleontology?

Internship paleontology positions are temporary opportunities, often for students or recent graduates, to gain hands-on experience in the field of paleontology. These internships typically involve assisting with research, fossil preparation, fieldwork, and sometimes public outreach or education. Interns work under the guidance of professional paleontologists in museums, universities, or research organizations. The goal is to provide practical skills, exposure to real-world scientific work, and networking opportunities in the field. Such internships can be valuable for building a resume and exploring career paths in paleontology.

What is the difference between Internship Paleontology vs Paleontologist?

AspectInternship PaleontologyPaleontologist
Required CredentialsTypically students or recent graduates, no advanced degree requiredAdvanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) often required
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, museum labs, research projects, often temporaryFull-time employment in research, academia, museums, or consulting
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, museums, research projectsUniversities, research institutions, government agencies, museums

In summary, Internship Paleontology is a temporary, entry-level position aimed at gaining experience, while a Paleontologist is a full-time professional with advanced education conducting research and fieldwork in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a paleontology intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Paleontology Intern, you typically need coursework in geology or biology, a basic understanding of fossil identification, and strong observational skills. Familiarity with fieldwork equipment, GIS software, and data recording tools is often expected, along with lab safety training. Attention to detail, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities are essential for accurate fossil collection, effective research contribution, and smooth collaboration in both field and laboratory environments.

What types of projects and hands-on experiences can I expect during a paleontology internship?

As a paleontology intern, you can expect to participate in a variety of hands-on projects such as fossil preparation, cataloging specimens, and assisting with fieldwork including excavation and site surveys. Interns often work closely with professional paleontologists and researchers, gaining valuable experience in laboratory techniques and data analysis. Collaboration with team members is common, and interns may also have opportunities to contribute to ongoing research projects or assist with public outreach and educational programs. These experiences provide a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing advanced studies or careers in paleontology.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Paleontology jobs? The most popular types of Paleontology jobs are:
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Internship Paleontology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Internship Paleontology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Paleontology Collection Manager

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, NE • On-site

$51K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Position Information
Working Title
Paleontology Collection Manager
Department
University Museum-0932
Requisition Number
S_260369
Posting Open Date
05/19/2026
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date)
06/12/2026
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Description of Work
Principal responsibilities are organization, management, preservation, conservation, and supervision of use of paleontological specimens in the collections of the UNSM Paleontology Department, including the Invertebrate Paleontology and Vertebrate Paleontology Divisions. This position also maintains archives related to the collections and other important documents. Responsibilities include maintenance of the Paleontology databases and collection digitization - photography, data records, archived catalogues, field notebooks, and additional metadata (provenance, identifications, etc.). Duties include monitoring the storage environment and security, monitoring for pests and taking appropriate pest management actions, conducting object condition reports, coordinating incoming and outgoing loans, and processing new acquisitions.
This position assists and supervises visiting researchers, trains and supervises collection volunteers, UNL student interns, student employees, nonstudent employees and other users of the collections in collaboration with paleontology staff and curators to ensure proper maintenance of collections. An additional set of responsibilities centers on supporting the museum's public education mission by assisting with exhibit curation (selection of objects, drafting text, installing/de-installing exhibit objects), assisting with educational programs as a content expert and speaker, and contributing to the museum's digital presence by providing content for social media posts and website.
As an EO employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination/
Minimum Required Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Paleontology, geology, earth sciences, museum studies or related field and 3 years' experience in managing museum collections, including knowledge of professional practices in object care, documentation, loans, exhibitions, packing and shipping; additional years of completed relevant education may substitute on a year-for-year basis.
  • Working knowledge of databases and standard MS office software proficiency (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Supervisory experience.
  • Knowledge of and past experience in securing federal or state permits to comply with federal Paleontological Resources Preservation Act (PRPA) and relevant state laws.
  • Museum collections management skills.
  • Knowledge of professional practices in object care, object reports, archives and other documentation, loans, exhibitions, packing and shipping.
  • Knowledge of taxonomic principles.
  • Ability to follow policies and procedures regarding sensitive data and maintain confidentiality.
  • Must have a valid driver's license and meet University driver eligibility requirements.

Preferred Qualifications
  • PHD in Paleontology, geology, earth sciences, museum studies or related field
  • Working knowledge of Specify and Filemaker Pro databases.
  • Experience working with paleontology field crews and communities.
  • Knowledge of Native American Graves and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) and its relevance to archaeological and adjoining paleontological sites.
  • Demonstrated experience writing exhibit text, exhibit curation; or experience collaborating with educators as a content expert and providing appropriate text or references for curriculum
  • Experience working with undergraduate students or graduate students.
  • Experience supporting faculty and curator research needs.

Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required
Yes
Physical Required
No
Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances.
No
Criminal History Background Check Required
Yes
Posted Salary
$51,000/yr. minimum
How to Apply
Click on "Apply for this Job". You will then either create an application or edit your current application that is on file. You will be required to attach your resume, cover letter, and list of references as three (3) separate documents in MS Word or PDF format.
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact
Ember Welsch, Human Resources Specialist Lead
Office of Research and Innovation
ewelsch2@unl.edu
Job Category (old)
Managerial/Professional
Job Type
Full-Time
Alternate Work Schedule (if other than 8-5)
Work Location (City, State)
Lincoln, NE
Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding?
No
If Temporary, indicate end date
Planned Hire Date:
Appointment End Date

Apply