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Paleontology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stantec

Senior Paleontologist

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$80K - $121K/yr

Stantec Paleontology is one of the largest paleontological mitigation programs in the country, holding numerous statewide Bureau of Land Management and project-specific United States Forest Service ...

Stantec

Senior Paleontologist

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

Stantec Paleontology is one of the largest paleontological mitigation programs in the country, holding numerous statewide Bureau of Land Management and project-specific United States Forest Service ...

City of Mesa, AZ

Museum Curator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

Museum Studies, Anthropology, Biology, Geology, Paleontology, or a closely related area and experience in responsible positions in a museum is preferred. Experience in Triassic paleobiology field ...

Stantec

Senior Paleontologist

Irvine, CA · On-site

Stantec Paleontology is one of the largest paleontological mitigation programs in the country, holding numerous statewide Bureau of Land Management and project-specific United States Forest Service ...

Stantec

Senior Paleontologist

Paramount, CA · On-site

Stantec Paleontology is one of the largest paleontological mitigation programs in the country, holding numerous statewide Bureau of Land Management and project-specific United States Forest Service ...

Stantec

Senior Paleontologist

Ventura, CA · On-site

Stantec Paleontology is one of the largest paleontological mitigation programs in the country, holding numerous statewide Bureau of Land Management and project-specific United States Forest Service ...

Stantec

Senior Paleontologist

Pasadena, CA · On-site

Stantec Paleontology is one of the largest paleontological mitigation programs in the country, holding numerous statewide Bureau of Land Management and project-specific United States Forest Service ...

Stantec

Senior Paleontologist

San Diego, CA · On-site

Stantec Paleontology is one of the largest paleontological mitigation programs in the country, holding numerous statewide Bureau of Land Management and project-specific United States Forest Service ...

Stantec

Senior Paleontologist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Stantec Paleontology is one of the largest paleontological mitigation programs in the country, holding numerous statewide Bureau of Land Management and project-specific United States Forest Service ...

Stantec

Senior Paleontologist

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

Stantec Paleontology is one of the largest paleontological mitigation programs in the country, holding numerous statewide Bureau of Land Management and project-specific United States Forest Service ...

Stantec

Senior Paleontologist

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

Stantec Paleontology is one of the largest paleontological mitigation programs in the country, holding numerous statewide Bureau of Land Management and project-specific United States Forest Service ...

Stantec

Senior Paleontologist

Monrovia, CA · On-site

Stantec Paleontology is one of the largest paleontological mitigation programs in the country, holding numerous statewide Bureau of Land Management and project-specific United States Forest Service ...

City of Mesa

Museum Curator

Mesa, AZ

$75K - $102K/yr

... paleontology, geology, biology); conducting original and secondary research; ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws in the acquisition and collection of objects; writing policies ...

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Paleontology information

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$31K

$58.7K

$109K

How much do paleontology jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for paleontology in the United States is $58,722.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $65,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a paleontologist do?

A paleontologist studies fossils to understand prehistoric life, including ancient plants, animals, and ecosystems. They conduct fieldwork to excavate fossils, analyze specimens in laboratories, and use data to interpret Earth's history. Their research helps explain evolution, extinction events, and environmental changes over millions of years. Paleontologists may work in museums, universities, government agencies, or private industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Paleontology position, and why are they important?

To thrive in paleontology, a strong background in geology, biology, and fossil identification is essential, typically with at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Experience with specialized tools such as GIS systems, electron microscopes, and field excavation equipment, as well as relevant fieldwork certifications, is highly valued. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective collaboration are key soft skills that enhance research and teamwork. These abilities enable paleontologists to accurately analyze specimens, conduct successful fieldwork, and contribute valuable insights to scientific understanding.

What does a typical workday look like for a paleontologist?

A typical workday for a paleontologist can vary greatly depending on whether they are in the field, a laboratory, or an office. Fieldwork days might involve planning and conducting excavations, collecting specimens, and carefully recording environmental data. In the lab or office, paleontologists often analyze fossils, write research papers, curate museum collections, or collaborate with colleagues from other scientific disciplines. Many paleontologists also participate in educational outreach or present their findings at conferences. The role is a blend of hands-on discovery, scientific analysis, and teamwork, providing diverse and rewarding experiences.

More about Paleontology jobs
What cities are hiring for Paleontology jobs? Cities with the most 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 Paleontology jobs? States with the most job openings for Paleontology jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Paleontology jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Paleontology jobs are:
Paleontology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paleontology job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% Full Time, 67% Part Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,722 per year, or $28.2 per hour.
Paleontology Collection Manager

Paleontology Collection Manager

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, NE • On-site

$51K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

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