As-Needed Paleontologist

Dudek LLC; California (MO); Remote; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Part time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as an As-Needed Paleontologist, where you'll lead field monitoring operations and provide taxonomic identification of fossils. This role offers the chance to work on impactful projects that address environmental challenges while enjoying the flexibility of remote and fieldwork. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in paleontology and excellent communication skills, contributing to a culture of innovation and collaboration. Embrace the opportunity to shape projects that protect our natural environments and make a difference in communities across Southern California.

Benefits

401(k) plan

Sick leave

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Medical benefits (conditional)

ESOP participation (conditional)

Qualifications

• Expertise in leading field monitoring operations and taxonomic identification.
• Experience writing technical reports and CEQA/NEPA documents.

Responsibilities

• Prepare paleontological studies and reports, leading fieldwork in California.
• Communicate regulatory requirements to clients and team members.

Skills

Paleontological field monitoring

Taxonomic identification of fossils

Technical writing

Communication skills

Data management

Education

Ph.D. or M.S. in Paleontology

B.A./B.S. in Geology or Biology

Tools

Standard office equipment

Job description

Location(s): Southern California
Practice/Department: Cultural
Internal Title: As-Needed Paleontologist
Work Environment: Remote/Fieldwork
Compensation: $33-$50 / hour

Dudek’s journey began in 1980 with a vision to serve Southern California’s water and wastewater agencies.
Today, we are a 100% employee-owned firm supporting clients nationwide and delivering projects that improve and protect the built and natural environments of communities throughout the United States. Our work has been recognized by leading industry organizations, and we’ve been honored with multiple national Top Workplace Awards.
Our employees are unified by a singular commitment to supporting projects that address key societal issues, such as the transition to renewable energy, infrastructure hardening and repair, environmental protection, and community resilience.
Learn more about our award-winning culture, the benefits and perks of being a Dudekian, and the projects you will have the opportunity to shape.

Who You Are

As an employeeyou embrace accountability, working safely, and collaboration while thinking resourcefully and independently.
Like all Dudekians, you are curious and solution-oriented, with the ability to adapt quickly to changes and approach challenges with a spirit of innovation.

How You’ll Make an Impact

As-needed qualified paleontologist must possess expertise leading field monitoring operations. Ability to provide taxonomic identification of vertebrate and/or invertebrate fossils to genus- or species-level for various projects a plus. In addition, the qualified candidate must have experience writing paleontological technical reports and CEQA/NEPA documents and be able to provide examples. The potential for additional work, for qualified individuals is available. Competitive wages are based on level of education and experience.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Demonstrated professional experience preparing paleontological studies, reports, and plans, and successfully leading paleontological fieldwork throughout California.
• Strong, concise writing, research and data management skills (writing samples required)
• Strong communication skills (both with clients and coworkers)
• Ability to clearly communicate federal, state and local regulatory requirements to clients
• Team-oriented attitude and approach
• Ability to travel
• At least two professional references
• Demonstrated laboratory and technical analysis expertise a plus

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Paleontology preferred, or B.A./B.S. in a related field such as Geology or Biology
• Candidate may be dual qualified in Archaeology
• Minimum of 5-10 years’ experience in management work
• Strong understanding of federal, state and local environmental regulations including NEPA, CEQA, Section 106 of the NHPA
• Knowledge and understanding of the regional geology of southern California
• Ability to direct field recovery of fossil specimens in the field
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Ability to read topographic maps, geological maps, and project maps
• Able to work cooperatively with crew members, supervisors, and clients
• Willing to travel, with a Valid CA Driver’s license in good standing and reliable transportation
• Ability to work in extreme climatic conditions. Cold or hot weather.

• Must possess a valid driver’s license and have active personal automobile liability insurance by the first day of employment

Compensation:$36-$50 hourly

*Final agreed-upon compensation will be based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, an individual’s related experience, education, certifications, skills, and work location. Successful candidates must pass a pre-employment drug test and background check prior to beginning employment.

Working Conditions
Environment

• This job operates in an outdoor or office-based environment and this role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, printers, etc.
• Outdoor activity may involve walking/trekking in uneven terrain over long distances in extreme weather conditions for extended periods of time.
• This job requires project site visits, based outdoors which can include excessive noise, uneven walking surfaces, extreme weather, and moving vehicles and equipment.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This job requires the following:

• Working on a computer, sitting, or standing for long periods of time in an office or remote office setting.
• Attending meetings, both in person and virtually, and speaking on the phone with peers, clients, etc.
• Specific vision abilities, including close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Dudek is committed to creating a workplace where all employees, regardless of their background, feel valued, respected, and have equal opportunities to succeed. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential to our business success, and we are dedicated to fostering a culture where everyone can thrive. We are committed to fair and equitable processes, based on merit, free from any discrimination.
Dudek is genuinely committed to equal employment opportunities within our company and on our project teams. Dudek is also committed to compliance with all applicable laws providing equal employment opportunities. This commitment applies to all persons involved in Dudek’s operations and prohibits unlawful discrimination by any employee of Dudek, including supervisors and coworkers. Equal employment opportunities will be extended to all persons (including those with disability and veteran status) in all aspects of the employment relationship, including recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, transfer, compensation, benefits, discipline, layoff, recall, and termination. Any employee who violates this policy and Dudek’s commitment to equal employment opportunities will be subject to disciplinary action.
*As-needed and part-time employees are eligible for our 401(k) plan, sick leave, and our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). As-needed and part-time employees have the option of additional benefits like medical benefits and ESOP participation provided they meet minimum hours worked during the 12-month look back measurement period. Speak with your recruiter to learn more.
Dudek is a U.S.-based employer. All positions are based in the United States and require U.S. work authorization.