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Paleontology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stantec

Paleontologist Technician (On-Call)

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$62K - $89K/yr

A bachelor's or master's degree in paleontology, geology, or biology or similar degree that includes education and field training in paleontology and sedimentary geology. * Minimum of 2 years' field ...

Stantec

Paleontologist Technician (On-Call)

Ventura, CA · On-site

$62K - $89K/yr

A bachelor's or master's degree in paleontology, geology, or biology or similar degree that includes education and field training in paleontology and sedimentary geology. * Minimum of 2 years' field ...

Stantec

Paleontologist Technician (On-Call)

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$62K - $89K/yr

A bachelor's or master's degree in paleontology, geology, or biology or similar degree that includes education and field training in paleontology and sedimentary geology. * Minimum of 2 years' field ...

Stantec

Paleontologist Technician (On-Call)

Redlands, CA · On-site

$62K - $89K/yr

A bachelor's or master's degree in paleontology, geology, or biology or similar degree that includes education and field training in paleontology and sedimentary geology. * Minimum of 2 years' field ...

City of Waco, TX

Historic Site Manager

Waco, TX · On-site

$58K/yr

Bachelor's degree in history, Museum Management, Archeology, Paleontology, Business, Public Administration, or a related field * 4 years of experience at the senior management level; or an equivalent ...

American Museum

Department Administrator

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$45K - $49K/yr

The Vertebrate Paleontology department is seeking a full-time Department Administrator to support the operational and administrative business of the Paleontology division. This position manages ...

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How much do paleontology jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 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 paleontology, 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.

Do paleontologists get paid well?

Paleontologists' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and employment sector. According to industry data, the median annual wage is around $63,000, with higher earnings possible in private industry or for those with advanced degrees and specialized skills. Many work in academic or research institutions, where salaries tend to be lower than in private sectors.

Is it hard to get a job in paleontology?

Getting a job in paleontology can be competitive due to limited positions and high educational requirements, typically including a master's or Ph.D. in geology or related fields. Success often depends on research experience, fieldwork skills, and networking within academic or museum communities.

What jobs can a paleontologist get?

A paleontologist can work as a research scientist, museum curator, fossil preparator, or environmental consultant. These roles often require fieldwork, fossil analysis, and scientific reporting, and may involve working in laboratories, museums, or academic institutions.

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.

Is there a high demand for paleontologists?

The demand for paleontologists is generally limited, with employment opportunities primarily in academia, museums, and research institutions. Job growth is slow, and competition for positions can be high, often requiring advanced degrees and specialized skills in excavation, fossil analysis, and scientific research.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 28% Full Time, 59% Part Time, and 12% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,722 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Field Paleontologist - Project Geologist

Utah Division of Human Resource Management

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

$36.04 - $46/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

FIELD PALEONTOLOGIST (PROJECT GEOLOGIST)This position may be filled at the geologist or project geologist level depending on experience and qualifications.
FT / PT Status - Full-Time
Salary - $36.04 - $46.00 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office - HybridRecruiter - Karen Weir kweir@utah.gov 8015387425
Application Deadline - 8/6/2026
Job DescriptionThe GeologicMapping and Paleontology Program of the Utah Geological Survey (UGS) is seekinga full time permanent Preparator - Field Paleontologist. This is a unique opportunity to build a career focused on FieldPaleontology in Utah. This position will be focused on fulfilling Utahpaleontology regulation regarding the documentation, preservation, andpromotion of Utah's vast paleontological resource. Funded by UGS base fundingsupplemented by Federal projects at multiple scales including projects for NPS,BLM, USFS, and Statemap. Theincumbent will be responsible for overseeing paleontological field work and thepreparation lab for a variety of paleontological projects with a focus on resourceinventory, salvage, and research in support of understanding Utah's geologicalhistory and stratigraphic framework. Maintenance of Utah's ever growingPaleontological Locality Database is a critical part of the program and with25,000 records it is unrivaled anywhere.
Key Responsibilities
Key responsibilities and day to day responsibilities of this position:
  • Oversee fossil preparation in UGS preparation lab by insuring equipment is operational, preparing significant fossils, overseeing volunteers, organizing the transfer of prepared specimens into appropriate repositories.
    Supervise paleontological field work by overseeing base camp operations, excavations, volunteers, collecting field data, and creating digital paleontological locality files.
  • Perform geologic field work that includes putting paleontological field data into geological context stratigraphically and geographically.
  • Prepare paleontological permit applications, supporting materials, and final reports for federal and state agencies as needed working with State Paleontologist.
  • Review paleontological reports and publications for UGS, external scientists, and students.
    Address review comments and complete reports on time for contract deliverables, provide timely reviews of geologic publications in collaboration with other UGS staff and outside geoscientists.
  • Work closely with the State Paleontologist to address issues related to paleontological resource management on public lands.
  • Develop paleontological and geologic expertise for Utah and share this expertise via conferences, publishing, and public interaction.
  • Collaborate with other Utah Geological Survey staff and external scientists investigating the geological heritage of Utah.

Qualifications
Minimum or "day-one" qualifications:
  • B.S. in Geology or Biology (Paleontology) required;M.S. or Ph.D. in Geology or Biology (Paleontology) is preferred.
  • May underfill based on candidates experiencelevel.
    • Project Geologist - must be licensed as a geologist in the state of Utah.
    • Geologist - doesn't require licensure, but the incumbent is generally working toward becoming licensed.
  • Must have experience in vertebrate fossilpreparation and field excavation.
  • Need to be able to assure personal safety in avariety of remote wilderness and urban settings.

Preferred or trainable/on-the-job qualifications:
  • A track record of fossil preparation at both the micro and macro scale documented by portfolio of past fossil preparations.
  • Experience in both paleontological inventory investigations and overseeing large scale vertebrate fossil excavations.
  • Creating high quality digital quarry maps using ArcGIS (ArcPro), and other map related software.
    Experience conducting paleontological field work including fossil prospecting, site evaluation and documentation, excavation, quarry mapping, and stratigraphy.
  • Experience developing 3-D paleontological data through photogrammetry and other means.
  • Experience with field work that involves safe travel through various remote wilderness and urban settings, and remote four-wheel driving.
  • Experience preparing reports, papers, and presentations including supporting figures, tables, and summary materials.
  • Experience reviewing reports and providing constructive feedback to collaborators and coworkers.
  • Experience with Utah paleontology and geology.

About the Role
Location -
1594 West North Temple
Salt Lake City, Utah, 84116
United States
Background Check Required - No
Drug Test Required - No
Schedule Code - B - Competitive Career Service
Work Schedule - Monday - Friday, 40 hours a week
Special Working Conditions or Physical Requirements -
  • The work requires considerable and strenuous physical exertion such as frequent climbing, lifting heavy objects over 50 pounds, crouching or crawling in restricted areas, defending oneself and/or others against physical attack.
  • Participate in remote fieldwork that involves cross-country hiking and travel on and off trails onfoot with a pack and equipment.
  • Current valid drivers license
  • Position will require frequent travel; occasionally overnight for up to several weeks at a time. Overnights often require camping.
  • Risks which require the use of special safety precautions and/or equipment, e.g., working around operating machines, working with contagious diseases or hazardous chemicals, etc.

Project Geologist - (Salary Range $36.04 - $54.12) This is a lead level job. Incumbents require limited direction and provide functional supervision to staff. Incumbents exercise independent judgement and utilize advanced expertise in geology to perform professional geologic duties. Conduct assigned research-oriented geological projects, implementing and monitoring plans and budgets on assigned projects. Must be Licensed as a Professional Geologist in the State of Utah.
Geologist - (Salary Range $32.32 - $48.56) This is a working level job. Under general supervision, incumbents exercise independent judgement and utilize training in geology to perform professional geologic duties. Conduct assigned research-oriented geological projects, implementing and monitoring plans and budgets on assigned projects.
Why You Should Join Our TeamIn Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:
  • Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
  • Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
  • Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
  • Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

The AgencyUtahpreserves the most complete fossil record of the entire history of life ofnearly any place on Earth and is particularly known for its spectaculardinosaur record. Utah is a geological wonderland from its well-known red rockcanyon country to its complicated basin and range geology, upland plateaus andmountains. This position is a uniquechance to build a career studying and documenting the unique paleontologicalrecord of Utah. The applicant will be joining one of the most successful StateGeological Survey programs in the U.S. with a long track record of publishingstandard setting geologic andpaleontological reports and peer reviewed journal articles. The Utah Geological Survey is a diverse earth science organization that includes groups working on Energy and Mineral Resources, Geologic Hazards, Information and Outreach, and Hydrologyand Wetlands. The Utah GeologicalSurvey believes that an ethical, motivated, and experienced work force arecornerstones of institutional,scientific, and creative excellence and are inextricably linked with ourmission, vision, and values.
Utah Geological Survey
Utah Department of Natural Resources
Paleontology Program
EEO StatementThe State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.

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