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Temporary Paleontology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Technicians

Campus, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $24.25/hr

No Type Non Benefited Staff / Student Temporary? Yes Standard Hours per Week 10 Full Time or ... This requires a deep dive into our legacy records and working side by side with our Paleontology ...

Research Technicians

Campus, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $24.25/hr

No Type Non Benefited Staff / Student Temporary? Yes Standard Hours per Week 10 Full Time or ... This requires a deep dive into our legacy records and working side by side with our Paleontology ...

Temp On-Call (Project-Based) We are seeking motivated and safety-minded Field Archaeologists to ... paleontology, environmental compliance, air quality, and industrial hygiene--to apply. Compensation:

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Temporary Paleontology information

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$11

$18

$30

How much do temporary paleontology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary paleontology in the United States is $18.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is temporary paleontology?

Temporary paleontology jobs are short-term positions in the field of paleontology, often offered by museums, universities, research institutions, or field projects. These roles may involve tasks like fossil excavation, laboratory analysis, cataloging specimens, or assisting with research and educational programs. Temporary positions can be seasonal, project-based, or for specific events, providing valuable experience for students and early-career professionals interested in paleontology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary paleontologist?

To thrive as a Temporary Paleontologist, you generally need a background in geology or biology, fieldwork experience, and at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, fossil preparation tools, and data recording systems is typically required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set standout candidates apart. These skills ensure accurate fossil identification, efficient fieldwork, and valuable contributions to scientific research.

What are some common challenges faced by temporary paleontologists in fieldwork assignments?

Temporary paleontologists often encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to new teams and unfamiliar field sites, which can require rapid learning of local geology and collection protocols. Fieldwork assignments may involve physically demanding tasks, variable weather conditions, and extended periods in remote locations, all while adhering to strict timelines. Collaboration and clear communication with permanent staff, researchers, and sometimes volunteers are vital to ensure data accuracy and the success of excavations. These roles offer valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities, which can be instrumental for career growth in paleontology.

What is the difference between Temporary Paleontology vs Temporary Geology Technician?

AspectTemporary PaleontologyTemporary Geology Technician
Required CredentialsRelevant degree in paleontology, geology, or related field; fieldwork experienceDegree in geology, earth sciences, or related field; technical training
Work EnvironmentField sites, museums, research labsField sites, laboratories, mining or construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, museums, universitiesMining companies, environmental consulting, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for fieldwork roles in earth sciencesRelated but more technical and industry-focused

Temporary Paleontology and Temporary Geology Technician roles both involve fieldwork and technical skills, but paleontology focuses on fossil identification and research, while geology technicians support broader earth science projects. The choice depends on your specific interests and credentials in earth sciences.

How hard is it to find a job in temporary paleontology?

Finding a temporary paleontology position can be competitive due to limited openings and seasonal demand. Success often depends on relevant field experience, research skills, and networking within academic or museum circles, as these roles typically require specialized knowledge and sometimes fieldwork certifications.

Is there a high demand for temporary paleontology?

Demand for temporary paleontology positions depends on research projects, museum needs, and fossil excavation seasons, which can create short-term opportunities. These roles often require specialized skills such as fossil identification and fieldwork, and availability can fluctuate based on funding and project schedules.

What jobs can I get as a temporary paleontology?

Temporary paleontology jobs typically include field technician, fossil preparator, research assistant, or lab assistant roles. These positions often require knowledge of fossil identification, excavation techniques, and sometimes certifications in safety or fieldwork. They are usually seasonal or project-based, offering opportunities to gain practical experience in museums, research institutions, or excavation sites.
More about Temporary Paleontology jobs

What cities are hiring for Temporary Paleontology jobs?

Cities with the most Temporary 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 Temporary Paleontology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Temporary Paleontology jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Temporary Paleontology jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Temporary Paleontology jobs are:

Infographic showing various Temporary Paleontology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 31% Full Time, 54% Part Time, and 15% Temporary. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,693 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Research Technicians

University of Utah

Campus, IL • On-site

$17.50 - $24.25/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago


University Of Utah rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Details
Open Date 08/12/2026 Requisition Number PRN17328N Job Title Research Technicians Working Title Paleo/Registration Assistant Career Progression Track S00 Track Level S1 - Entry Level Support FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Type Non Benefited Staff / Student Temporary? Yes Standard Hours per Week 10 Full Time or Part Time? Part Time Shift Day Work Schedule Summary
This person will be expected to work during the work week days Monday - Friday between 9:00am-5:00pm.
Is this a work study job? No VP Area Academic Affairs Department 00018 - Utah Museum of Natl Hist Oper Location Campus City Salt Lake City, UT Type of Recruitment External Posting Pay Rate Range 15.60 Close Date 08/27/2026 Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time) Job Summary
We seek a motivated student to work in the Paleontology Collections and Registration at the Natural History Museum of Utah. Tasks will include data entry and data clean-up in Excel and in our Collections Management Database System, EMu. Tasks will also include scanning physical records and making them digital records. As part of our Digitization Initiative, our goal is to link all digital fossil records to their digital accession record i.e. the date they were collected, acquired, etc. This requires a deep dive into our legacy records and working side by side with our Paleontology Collections Manager, Head Registrar, and our Collections Digitization Coordinator.
Responsibilities
Tasks will include data entry, data cleaning, record entry, scanning records, etc. This job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job. This is an entry level position and on-the-job training is provided. The ability to understand and carry out verbal and written instructions; the ability to keep accurate records; and effective communication skills required. Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.
Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).

Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:

Research Technician, I: Requires little to no related experience.
Preferences
A background in geology, biology, history, or museum studies is preferred but not required. Knowledge of Excel is preferred but not required. Knowledge of GPS locality data; coordinates, datums, Zones, UTMS, Lat/Long preferred but not required. Knowledge of ArcGIS preferred but not required.
We seek a fast learner, someone able to learn new software products, and a problem solver. Someone who is able to think logically and able to self-regulate tasks. The successful candidate will be subject to a basic background check.
Special Instructions Summary Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems ("URS"). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS' post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans' preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran's status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator's office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah NonDiscrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu

https://publicsafety.utah.edu/safetyreport/
This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.

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The University of Utah is the state’s flagship institution of higher education, with 18 schools and colleges, more than 100 undergraduate majors and graduate programs, and an enrollment of more than 38,000 students. It is a member of the Association of American Universities—an invitation-only, prestigious group of 71 leading research institutions. The U is advancing a new national model for higher education that delivers societal impact through education, research, health care, and community service, while making social, economic, and cultural contributions that improve lives across Utah and around the world.

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