Staff Paleontologist (Temporary)

SWCA Environmental Consultants • , NM

4d • $24 - $30 • Onsite

About The Position

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Temporary Staff Paleontologist to support projects in our Rocky Mountain Plains region, based out of the Sheridan office. This position will initially support an ongoing paleontological mitigation project in southwestern Wyoming through October 2026, with potential extension into early 2027 and opportunities for future project work across the western United States, particularly with the aim to become involved with paleontology projects in Arizona and New Mexico. The ideal candidate will have at least two years of mitigation experience, preferably at least four years of experience in a variety of locations and geologic settings. Preference will be given to candidates who currently qualify as a Paleontological Resource Use Permit Field Monitor or Field Agent. Working under the direction of a Paleontology Lead, the Staff Paleontologist will conduct construction monitoring, surveys, fossil identification and documentation, data collection, and related field activities. This role requires strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work independently in demanding field environments while collaborating with construction crews, agency personnel, clients, and other paleontology professionals. Projects may involve energy transmission, oil and gas development, mining, and other infrastructure efforts throughout the western United States. Field assignments typically involve extended travel and hotel stays, often three weeks or longer, work schedules of up to six days per week, long field days averaging 12 to 14 hours, and work in remote locations, rugged terrain, and varied weather conditions. Project related travel, lodging, rental vehicles, per diem, and overtime pay will be provided as applicable. Candidates located in New Mexico are preferred, although qualified applicants throughout the western United States will be considered.

Requirements

• Qualifications consistent with Paleontological Resource Use Permit requirements for Field Monitor or Field Agent status.
• Bachelor's degree or higher in Paleontology, Geology, Biology, or a related field with relevant paleontological coursework and experience.
• Minimum of two years of professional paleontological consulting experience.
• Experience with paleontological mitigation and construction monitoring.
• Knowledge of Southwestern and Rocky Mountain Plains geology, paleontology, fossil identification, and field methods.
• Experience documenting, collecting, excavating, and assessing paleontological resources.
• Valid driver's license and ability to operate four wheel drive vehicles on rugged roads.
• Ability to travel extensively, work extended schedules, hike up to eight miles per day, lift up to 40 pounds, and work in challenging outdoor environments.

Nice To Haves

• Currently qualify as a Paleontological Resource Use Permit Field Monitor or Field Agent.
• Four years of experience in a variety of locations and geologic settings.
• Current Field Monitor or Field Agent status.
• Experience on energy, transmission, mining, or oil and gas projects.
• MSHA, OSHA, CPR, and First Aid certifications.
• Additional experience throughout the Rocky Mountain Plains or broader western United States.
• Candidates located in New Mexico are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Act as a paleontology professional on project teams, serving as a permitted Field Monitor, working under the direction of Field Agents, Principal Investigators, Project Managers, and/or Paleontology Leads.
• Prepare and complete accurate logs for field surveys, monitoring, fossil collection, fossil preparation, or other related efforts.
• Conduct fieldwork, including paleontological construction monitoring and survey, and ensure the quality and completeness of data collected in the field.
• Perform data QA/QC, organization, and tracking; conduct field GPS data collection using tablets and GPS devices.
• Communicate regularly and effectively with paleontology leads, project managers, field crews, resource monitors, subcontractors, construction crews, and clients to ensure reliable, consistent, and high-quality services.
• Comply with SWCA and client safety programs and drug testing requirements.
• Take responsibility for personal safety and anticipate potential safety hazards.
• Build collaborative relationships with other paleontologists in SWCA’s paleontology program.
• Uphold SWCA’s high standard of scientific ethics and assurance, demonstrating the ability to identify and creatively resolve challenges.

Benefits

• Project related travel, lodging, rental vehicles, per diem, and overtime pay will be provided as applicable.
• wellness paid time off
• employee assistance program
• wellness program activities
• career development programs
• award-winning Career Landscape support resources

What This Job Offers

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