As-Needed Paleontologist - Southern CA

Dudek; California; Remote; USD 45,000 - 69,000; Part time

Job summary

Dudek is seeking an experienced paleontologist to lead field monitoring operations and provide taxonomic identifications of fossils for diverse projects in Southern California.

The role requires extensive fieldwork, strong writing and regulatory communication skills, and the ability to travel across California. Candidate should have related advanced degrees and 5–10 years of management experience.

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, and Section 106 of the NHPA.
• Ability to direct field recovery of fossil specimens in the field.

Responsibilities

• Lead paleontological fieldwork throughout California.
• Prepare paleontological studies, reports, and plans.
• Write concise, well-supported reports and CEQA/NEPA documents.
• Communicate regulatory requirements to clients clearly.
• Travel as required and coordinate with team members.

Skills

Strong writing

Communication

Travel ability

Team-oriented

Independent work

Education

Ph.D. in Paleontology

M.S. in Paleontology

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

Job description

Overview

Location(s): Southern California Practice/Department: CulturalWork Environment: Remote/FieldworkCompensation: $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 beenrecognized by leading industry organizations, andwe’vebeen 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 ouraward-winning culture, thebenefits and perksof being aDudekian, and theprojectsyou will have the opportunity to shape.

Position Overview

Who You Are

As anemployeeyou embrace accountability, working safely, andcollaborationwhile thinking resourcefully and independently.

Like allDudekians, you are curious andsolution-oriented, with the ability to adapt quickly to changes and approach challenges with a spirit ofinnovation.

HowYou’llMake 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, and 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 California driver's license in good standing and reliable transportation.
• Ability to work in extreme climatic conditions, including 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*

*Finalagreed-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

• This joboperatesin an outdoor or office-basedenvironment,and this role routinelyusesstandard 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, basedoutdoorswhich 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 forlong periodsof time in an office or remote office setting.

• Employees must be capable of bending, squatting, climbing ladders, andlifting upto 35 lbs. unassisted; 50lbs in a team lift (two or more employees).

• 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.

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Dudek Talent Community

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 andequitableprocesses, 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 lawsprovidingequal employment opportunities. This commitment applies to allpersonsinvolved 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-neededand 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 ofadditionalbenefits like medical benefits and ESOP participation provided they meetminimumhours worked during the 12-month look back measurement period.

Dudek is a U.S.-based employer. All positions are based in the United States and require U.S. work authorization.