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Paleontologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AECOM

Paleontologist (on-call)

Billings, MT · On-site +1

AECOM is seeking experienced On-Call Paleontologist's to join our U.S. West Rockies Environmental Planning and Permitting team. *This remote position is a part-time, on-call role meaning hours will ...

AECOM

Paleontologist (on-call)

Denver, CO · On-site

AECOM is seeking experienced On-Call Paleontologist's to join our U.S. West Rockies Environmental Planning and Permitting team. *This remote position is a part-time, on-call role meaning hours will ...

AECOM

Paleontologist (on-call)

Albuquerque, NM · On-site +1

AECOM is seeking experienced On-Call Paleontologist's to join our U.S. West Rockies Environmental Planning and Permitting team. *This remote position is a part-time, on-call role meaning hours will ...

AECOM

Paleontologist (on-call)

Phoenix, AZ · On-site +1

AECOM is seeking experienced On-Call Paleontologist's to join our U.S. West Rockies Environmental Planning and Permitting team. *This remote position is a part-time, on-call role meaning hours will ...

AECOM

Paleontologist (on-call)

Fort Collins, CO

AECOM is seeking experienced On-Call Paleontologist's to join our U.S. West Rockies Environmental Planning and Permitting team. *This remote position is a part-time, on-call role meaning hours will ...

AECOM

Paleontologist (on-call)

Denver, CO · On-site

AECOM is seeking experienced On-Call Paleontologist's to join our U.S. West Rockies Environmental Planning and Permitting team. *This remote position is a part-time, on-call role meaning hours will ...

AECOM

Paleontologist (on-call)

Las Vegas, NV · On-site +1

AECOM is seeking experienced On-Call Paleontologist's to join our U.S. West Rockies Environmental Planning and Permitting team. *This remote position is a part-time, on-call role meaning hours will ...

AECOM

Paleontologist (on-call)

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

AECOM is seeking experienced On-Call Paleontologist's to join our U.S. West Rockies Environmental Planning and Permitting team. *This remote position is a part-time, on-call role meaning hours will ...

AECOM

Paleontologist (on-call)

Denver, CO · On-site

AECOM is seeking experienced On-Call Paleontologist's to join our U.S. West Rockies Environmental Planning and Permitting team. *This remote position is a part-time, on-call role meaning hours will ...

AECOM

Paleontologist (on-call)

Las Vegas, NV

AECOM is seeking experienced On-Call Paleontologist's to join our U.S. West Rockies Environmental Planning and Permitting team. *This remote position is a part-time, on-call role meaning hours will ...

AECOM

Paleontologist (on-call)

Denver, CO · On-site

AECOM is seeking experienced On-Call Paleontologist's to join our U.S. West Rockies Environmental Planning and Permitting team. *This remote position is a part-time, on-call role meaning hours will ...

AECOM

Paleontologist (on-call)

Denver, CO · On-site

AECOM is seeking experienced On-Call Paleontologist's to join our U.S. West Rockies Environmental Planning and Permitting team. *This remote position is a part-time, on-call role meaning hours will ...

AECOM

Paleontologist (on-call)

Denver, CO · On-site

AECOM is seeking experienced On-Call Paleontologist's to join our U.S. West Rockies Environmental Planning and Permitting team. *This remote position is a part-time, on-call role meaning hours will ...

Stantec

Paleontologist Technician (On-Call)

Ventura, CA · On-site

$62K - $89K/yr

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)

Fresno, CA · On-site

$66K - $95K/yr

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

Stantec

Paleontologist Technician (On-Call)

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$62K - $89K/yr

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

See salary details

$15

$35

$63

How much do paleontologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 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 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 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.

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.

Are paleontologists paid well?

Paleontologists' salaries vary based on experience, education, and location, with median annual wages around $63,000 according to industry reports. Professionals working in academia or research institutions tend to earn less than those employed by government agencies or private companies, and fieldwork or specialized skills can influence earning potential.

Is paleontology a high demand job?

Paleontology is a specialized field with limited job opportunities, primarily in academia, museums, and research institutions. The demand for paleontologists is relatively low compared to other scientific careers, and many positions require advanced degrees and research experience.

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.

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.
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Cities with the most Paleontologist job openings:

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The top employers for Paleontologist jobs are:

What states have the most Paleontologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Paleontologist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Paleontologist jobs?

For Paleontologist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Paleontologist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% As Needed, 34% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 22% Temporary. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,146 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

Paleontologist (on-call)

Billings, MT • On-site, Remote

AECOM
Construction • 10K+ employees
Learn more about AECOMexternal

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Conduct paleontological fieldwork in the Western US region.

  • Provide taxonomic identification of vertebrate and/or invertebrate fossils to genus or species level for various projects.

  • Perform field monitoring operations and assist in the recovery of fossil specimens.

AECOM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Company Description
Work with Us. Change the World.
At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world's most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.
There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.
We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.
Job Description
AECOM is seeking experienced On-Call Paleontologist's to join our U.S. West Rockies Environmental Planning and Permitting team.
*This remote position is a part-time, on-call role meaning hours will vary and will be dependent on our project-based needs. Candidates should ideally be located in Utah, Nevada, New Mexico, Arizona, Montana or Colorado regions.
Duties and Responsibilities will include, but not limited to:
  • Paleontological fieldwork experience in Western US.
  • Ability to provide taxonomic identification of vertebrate and/or invertebrate fossils to genus- or species-level for various projects.
  • Should possess expertise in field monitoring operations.
  • Strong, concise writing, research and data management skills.
  • Candidates must have the ability to travel and conduct fieldwork throughout Western US

About AECOM's Environment Business Line
Join AECOM to be part of an expert global team who is connected through a well-developed, worldwide, internal technical practice network through which you can learn from and brainstorm with the best in the world. AECOM is an industry-leading, world class environmental firm, and we want you to succeed within it. We respect and encourage your own pathway to excellence via our Freedom to Grow initiative.
AECOM is known for our award-winning technical excellence, leading-edge science and innovative project delivery. We provide sustainable solutions for some of the world's most challenging issues. Our global clients and their projects span a variety of market sectors and geographies and require innovative technical solutions to solve wide-ranging environmental problems.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in paleontology or related field such as geology or biology.
  • 2 years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education focused on paleontological fieldwork and technical reports.
  • Outdoor activity may involve walking/trekking in uneven terrain over long distances in extreme weather conditions for extended periods of time.
  • Valid U.S driver's license is required for this role; and must be able to travel to job sites safely.
  • Due to the nature of the work, US Citizenship is required.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • M.S or Ph.D. in Paleontology preferred or related field such as geology or biology.
  • 6+ years of relevant paleontology experience.
  • Candidates may be dual qualified in Archaeology.
  • Strong understanding of federal, state and local environmental regulations.
  • Knowledge and understanding of the regional geology of the Western U.S.
  • Ability to direct field recovery of fossil specimens in the field.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to read topographic maps, geological maps, and project maps.
  • Able to work cooperatively with crew members, supervisors, and clients.

Additional Information
  • Relocation is not available for this position.
  • THIS POSTING IS FOR A CURRENT VACANCY, AND AECOM INTENDS TO FILL THIS POSITION BY NOVEMBER 30, 2026.

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.
About AECOM
AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.
AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients' complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle - from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.
What makes AECOM a great place to work
You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you'll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you've always envisioned. Here, you'll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community-where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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