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Paleontologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stantec

Paleontologist Technician (On-Call)

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$62K - $89K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with rigor, a creative spirit, and vision for growth. We draw from more than 20 technical specialties around ...

Stantec

Paleontologist Technician (On-Call)

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$62K - $89K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with rigor, a creative spirit, and vision for growth. We draw from more than 20 technical specialties around ...

Stantec

Paleontologist Technician (On-Call)

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$62K - $89K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with rigor, a creative spirit, and vision for growth. We draw from more than 20 technical specialties around ...

Stantec

Paleontologist Technician (On-Call)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$57K - $83K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with rigor, a creative spirit, and vision for growth. We draw from more than 20 technical specialties around ...

Stantec

Paleontologist Technician (On-Call)

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$62K - $89K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with rigor, a creative spirit, and vision for growth. We draw from more than 20 technical specialties around ...

Stantec

Paleontologist Technician (On-Call)

Redlands, CA · On-site

$62K - $89K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with rigor, a creative spirit, and vision for growth. We draw from more than 20 technical specialties around ...

Stantec

Paleontologist Technician (On-Call)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$62K - $89K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with rigor, a creative spirit, and vision for growth. We draw from more than 20 technical specialties around ...

Stantec

Paleontologist Technician (On-Call)

Ventura, CA · On-site

$62K - $89K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with rigor, a creative spirit, and vision for growth. We draw from more than 20 technical specialties around ...

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Paleontologist information

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$15

$35

$63

How much do paleontologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for paleontologist in the United States is $35.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $57.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Paleontologist vs Geologist?

AspectPaleontologistGeologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Paleontology, Geology, or related field; often a Ph.D. for research rolesBachelor's or Master's in Geology or Earth Sciences; advanced degrees for specialized roles
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, fossil sites, museums, field excavationsField sites, laboratories, research institutions, environmental consulting
Industry UsageResearch, museums, academia, fossil excavation companiesNatural resource exploration, environmental consulting, academia, hazard assessment

While both Paleontologists and Geologists study Earth's processes, Paleontologists focus on fossils and ancient life forms, often working in labs and excavation sites. Geologists examine Earth's physical materials and processes, including rocks and minerals, in a broader scope. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often overlap in fieldwork, but their primary focus and career paths differ.

What are the careers in paleontologist?

Careers related to paleontology include roles such as paleontologist, fossil preparator, museum curator, research scientist, and field technician. These positions often require skills in excavation, fossil analysis, and scientific research, and may involve working in laboratories, museums, or on field expeditions.

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

To thrive as a Paleontologist, you need a strong background in geology, biology, and earth sciences, typically supported by at least a master's or doctoral degree in paleontology or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as GIS software, fossil preparation equipment, and analytical laboratory instruments is common, alongside experience in fieldwork techniques. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting findings and collaborating with research teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for accurately analyzing fossils, advancing scientific knowledge, and sharing discoveries within the scientific community.

What are 5 jobs for paleontologist?

A paleontologist can work in various roles such as fossil preparator, museum curator, research scientist, field paleontologist, or environmental consultant. These jobs often require fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and expertise in geology and biology. Opportunities exist in museums, universities, government agencies, and private research firms.

Are paleontologists paid well?

Paleontologists' salaries vary based on experience, education, and location, but they generally earn moderate to good wages compared to other scientific fields. Entry-level positions often pay around $40,000 to $60,000 annually, while experienced professionals or those in academia and industry can earn over $100,000. The job often involves fieldwork and research, requiring specialized skills and sometimes advanced degrees.

Is paleontology a high demand job?

Paleontology is a specialized field with limited job openings, primarily in research, museums, and academia. It is generally considered a low-demand career compared to other scientific professions, and many positions require advanced degrees and research experience.

What are some common challenges paleontologists face when conducting fieldwork, and how do they prepare for them?

Paleontologists often encounter challenges during fieldwork such as unpredictable weather, remote locations, and the physical demands of excavation. They prepare by carefully planning logistics, ensuring they have the right permits and equipment, and training in safety protocols. Collaboration with local guides and other scientists is also common to increase efficiency and safety. Flexibility and adaptability are key traits, as field conditions can change rapidly and impact research plans.
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Paleontologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paleontologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% As Needed, 43% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 36% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $73,146 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

As-Needed Paleontological Field Technicians (Across CA)

Rincon Consultants, Inc

Fresno, CA • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

About Us
We are an award-winning California-based environmental consulting firm with 550+ professionals and more than 30 years of diverse experience serving clients in transportation, energy, water, infrastructure, private development, and government sectors. Our mission is to deliver practical, science-based environmental and planning solutions that support communities, infrastructure, and natural systems.
As a people-centric organization, we value collaboration, fairness, and transparency, and are committed to fostering a workplace that supports both personal and professional growth while offering robust career opportunities. We are especially proud of our recent Great Place To Work® certification, which reflects an independent assessment of our culture and our team member experiences.
About The Role
We are seeking as-needed Paleontological Field Technicians who will be responsible for providing paleontological mitigation support throughout California. This role will be responsible for conducting paleontological monitoring on construction sites, including preparation for sustained monitoring in a variety of climates and ecologies.
Please note, this position is listed for California and is available for any of the Central Coast, SoCal,and NorCal regions, with particular interest in candidates located in San Luis Obispo, Ventura, and Fresno counties.
What You'll Do
  • Perform construction mitigation monitoring for paleontological resources.
  • Collect detailed and accurate field data with a focus on the geology and stratigraphy of the site and prepare clear and concise daily monitoring reports to summarize the data.
  • Collect fossils during monitoring, perform/assist with small- and large-scale fossil salvage that may include plaster jacketing or bulk matrix sampling.
  • Clean, organize, and prepare fossils for institutional curation.
  • Work under the direction of a qualified paleontologist.

What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in geology, paleontology, or a closely related field, with coursework and field training in paleontology and sedimentary geology.
  • Experience in California paleontology, which may include paleontological monitoring, survey, fossil salvage, laboratory preparation, report writing, and coordination with a principal paleontologist.
  • Ability to safely perform fieldwork on construction sites often in rough terrain and inclement weather for long hours.
  • Excellent communication skills (verbal and written), a high level of responsiveness to supervisors, the ability to follow detailed instructions, and strong organizational skills.
  • A valid driver's license, clean driving record, and reliable transportation for travel to and from project work sites.
  • Proficient in technology with the ability to reliably communicate through smartphones, computers, or tablets.

Compensation
The base hourly range for this temporary position is $25.00-$35.00 per hour. At Rincon, our salary ranges are based on market median of similar jobs, according to third party salary benchmark surveys. The base pay that is actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate's job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Additional Employment Information
Individuals offered employment must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening as a condition of employment. Additionally, those hired who may be assigned to federal projects will be subject to further drug testing, including screening for cannabinoids (THC/marijuana), in compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and other applicable federal regulations, which take precedence over California state and local laws.
Rincon Consultants does not accept unsolicited applicant/candidate resumes from search firm recruiters and/or temporary agencies that do not have a signed contract and specified work order with Rincon Consultants. Further, such resumes received will be deemed the sole property of Rincon Consultants and no fees will be paid in the event Rincon Consultants subsequently hires such individual. Rincon Consultants is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

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