On Call Senior Paleontologist (Paleontological Resources Specialist)

WSP • Tempe, CA

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

WSP is currently seeking an On Call Senior Paleontologist (Paleontological Resources Specialist – PRS) to manage paleontological monitoring and mitigation programs for major infrastructure and energy projects in California. This role serves as a resource lead and would be responsible for oversight of field teams and regulatory compliance for large-scale construction projects within Southern California. The successful candidate would help build the larger paleontological monitoring program within the Southwestern United States and would be responsible for the day to day operations of paleontological work on major construction and permitting projects throughout California. The successful candidate would need to meet the minimum qualifications for a Qualified Professional Paleontologist as defined in the Code of Federal Regulations, CFR, Title 43, Subtitle A, Part 49 – Paleontological Resources Preservation and in the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology’s Standard Procedures for the Assessment and Mitigation of Adverse Impacts to Paleontological Resources (SVP 20210).

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Geology, Paleontology, Archaeology, Anthropology, historic preservation, or a related field.
• 5 to 7 years of relevant post-education experience working in archaeological or paleontological fieldwork to include site recordation, survey, construction monitoring, and excavation.
• Minimum three years of paleontological resource mitigation and field experience in California
• At least one year of leading paleontological resource mitigation and field activities.
• Ability to recognize and collect fossils in the field.
• Local geological and biostratigraphic expertise.
• Proficiency in identifying vertebrate and invertebrate fossils.
• Strong project management and communication skills.
• Highly capable self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
• Developed critical thinking and problem-solving skills required to reach conclusions from testing results, data collation, and identify the most effective solutions to accomplish objectives of assigned projects.
• Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP’s health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
• Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
• Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s Degree or PhD is preferred.
• Demonstrated experience leading regulated construction projects.
• Demonstrated established professional network and publication record.
• 40-Hour OSHA Health & Safety Training (HAZWOPER) (29 CFR 1910.120) preferred.
• Basic First Aid and Adult CPR training desired.

Responsibilities

• Serve as lead Paleontological Resources Specialist for construction projects throughout California.
• Develop and implement Paleontological Resources Monitoring and Mitigation Plans.
• Supervise qualified Paleontological Monitors and coordinate with construction teams.
• Give Worker Environmental Awareness Program (WEAP) training to construction staff.
• Assisting in coordination with agencies including CEC, CPUC, and local jurisdictions.
• Evaluate paleontological discoveries and direct mitigation strategies in coordination with environmental compliance team and in accordance with mitigation plans.
• Provide technical oversight and monitoring and discovery report preparation.
• Ensure compliance with project requirements, laws and regulations.
• Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP’s Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Benefits

• coverage related to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life
• retirement savings
• paid sick leave
• paid vacation (or other personal time)
• paid parental leave
• paid time off for purposes of bereavement, voting, and/or attendance at naturalization proceedings

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior