Paleontologist (on call)

AECOM•Fort Collins, CO

6d•$27 - $35•Remote

About The Position

AECOM is seeking experienced on-call Paleontologists to join its U.S. West Rockies Environmental Planning and Permitting team. This is a remote, part-time, on-call position with variable hours based on project needs. Candidates should ideally be located in Utah, Nevada, New Mexico, Arizona, Montana, or Colorado and must be able to travel and conduct fieldwork throughout the Western U.S. The role involves paleontological fieldwork, taxonomic identification of vertebrate and/or invertebrate fossils to genus or species level, and field monitoring operations. It also requires strong writing, research, and data management skills. The position may involve extended outdoor activity, including walking or trekking long distances over uneven terrain in extreme weather conditions. AECOM's Environment Business Line offers a global technical practice network and opportunities to learn and collaborate with experts. The company provides environmental solutions for clients across varied market sectors and geographies. Relocation is not available. The current vacancy is intended to be filled by January 27, 2027. Newly hired employees must attend in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in paleontology or a related field such as geology or biology.
At least 2 years of relevant experience, or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education, focused on paleontological fieldwork and technical reports.
Valid driver's license and ability to pass a Motor Vehicle Records check in accordance with company policy.
U.S. citizenship is required.
Ability to travel and conduct fieldwork throughout the Western U.S.
Strong, concise writing, research, and data management skills.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Ability to read topographic, geological, and project maps.
Ability to work cooperatively with crew members, supervisors, and clients.
Ability to undertake outdoor activity involving walking or trekking over uneven terrain for long distances in extreme weather conditions for extended periods.

Nice To Haves

M.S. or Ph.D. in paleontology or a related field such as geology or biology.
4 or more years of relevant paleontology experience.
Dual qualification in archaeology.
Strong understanding of federal, state, and local environmental regulations.
Knowledge and understanding of the regional geology of the Western U.S.
Expertise in directing field recovery of fossil specimens.

Responsibilities

Conduct paleontological fieldwork in the Western U.S.
Provide taxonomic identification of vertebrate and/or invertebrate fossils to genus or species level for projects.
Perform field monitoring operations.
Write and manage technical reports and project data.
Travel and conduct fieldwork throughout the Western U.S.
Direct the field recovery of fossil specimens, as applicable.