Principle Paleontologist

EC Source•Reno, NV

About The Position

Energy Environmental Group (EEG), a full-service environmental consulting firm and subsidiary of MasTec, is seeking a Principal Paleontologist (IV) to serve as its technical authority for paleontological compliance. The role provides advanced technical leadership across energy infrastructure projects throughout the United States, supporting project teams, clients, managers, and executive leadership by resolving complex permitting challenges, developing regulatory strategies, establishing technical standards, and ensuring high-quality environmental planning services. This position advances EEG’s technical excellence through mentorship, quality assurance, innovation, and strategic problem solving. The Principal Paleontologist leads planning efforts for major electric transmission, renewable energy, and infrastructure projects; advises stakeholders on complex environmental planning and regulatory matters; and helps shape the organization’s technical direction. The role also oversees paleontology studies, field and desktop research, regulatory coordination, technical deliverables, and proposal and budget preparation. Travel and fieldwork may take place in remote locations, rough terrain, or challenging weather.

Requirements

Advanced degree (M.A. or Ph.D.) in paleontology, geology, geobiology, or a closely related field.
At least 7 years of professional experience conducting paleontological investigations in one or more states in the western United States.
At least 3 years of experience conducting paleontological resource surveys, identifying fossils in the field, fossil collection, and laboratory preparation.
At least 2 years of experience with analysis and technical report writing.
At least 2 years of experience supervising field crews during field studies.
Ability to be listed as Field Director or Principal Investigator on federal paleontological use permits.
Knowledge of federal regulations pertaining to paleontological resources and state-specific knowledge or experience in one or more western U.S. states.
Willingness to travel and conduct fieldwork in often-remote locations, rough terrain, and/or challenging weather.
Experience reviewing technical reports, permit applications, environmental documentation, and regulatory deliverables.
Demonstrated ability to mentor technical professionals while strengthening organizational knowledge.
Exceptional written, verbal, presentation, and facilitation skills.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
Ability to work at a computer for extended periods.
Ability to operate a motor vehicle.
Ability to utilize standard office technology, GIS platforms, and mobile communication tools.

Nice To Haves

At least 10 years of professional experience conducting paleontological investigations in one or more states in the western United States.
Working knowledge of the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act, Paleontological Resources Protection Act, and/or California Environmental Quality Act.
Active member of the professional community.
Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Serve as a leading expert in paleontological compliance, permitting, and regulatory strategy.
Lead planning efforts for large electric transmission, renewable energy, and infrastructure projects.
Develop permitting strategies that reduce project risk while supporting engineering, construction, and client objectives.
Advise executive leadership, project managers, and clients on complex environmental planning and regulatory issues.
Lead agency coordination involving federal, state, Tribal, and local regulatory agencies.
Mentor Paleontologist I, II, and III personnel and support development of planning professionals.
Establish company standards, technical guidance documents, quality assurance procedures, and training programs.
Support proposals, client interviews, executive presentations, and strategic business development initiatives.
Evaluate emerging paleontological compliance regulations and recommend improvements to EEG’s planning practice.
Direct and oversee office or program personnel and day-to-day workflow, ensuring efficiency and compliance.
Identify staffing needs and lead recruitment and retention efforts.
Oversee project execution to ensure adherence to timelines, budgets, and regulatory standards.
Monitor performance, mentor team members, foster skill development, and ensure compliance with company policies.
Maintain client relationships and support efforts to secure new business.
Review technical reports and ensure accuracy and adherence to industry standards.
Lead paleontology studies firmwide and ensure high-quality, scientifically sound, on-time deliverables.
Coordinate local, regional, and nationwide paleontology personnel conducting field and desktop research.
Provide technical oversight and quality assurance/quality control while ensuring compliance with applicable regulations.
Train, lead, and mentor staff and engage in professional development.
Interface with clients, agencies, and external stakeholders.
Develop new business in conjunction with the sales team.
Maintain current knowledge of regulations affecting paleontological resources and industry trends and standards.
Demonstrate technical excellence in vertebrate paleontology and maintain knowledge of best management practices in mitigation paleontology.
Oversee field investigations of proposed project sites to assess or evaluate paleontological resources or the potential for resources.
Direct data collection, analysis, and interpretation; formulate management recommendations and mitigation measures.
Oversee proposal and budget preparation.
Travel to project locations, client meetings, regulatory agencies, training events, and company offices as required.
Occasionally perform field visits in varying terrain and weather conditions.