Fossil Lab Manager - Asphalt Prep & Team Lead

SPNHC; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 64,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County (NHMLAC) is seeking a Lab Manager to direct the Fossil Lab operations at the La Brea Tar Pits. The role involves preparation and conservation of asphalt‑preserved fossils, staff leadership, and budget oversight, with frequent interaction with researchers and the public.

The position requires extensive paleontological prep experience, strong leadership, and excellent communication skills.

Qualifications

• At least 8 years experience in paleontological preparation.
• At least 5 years supervising staff and/or volunteers.
• Extensive knowledge of vertebrate osteology.
• Experience in the use, storage, and disposal of hazardous chemicals.
• Demonstrated ability to lead a productive team.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, professionalism, and collaborative behavior.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated expertise in public science communication.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Willingness to work full-time, on-site (no remote option).
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including occasional weekends and evenings.
• Daily contact with liquid asphalt, asphaltic matrix, and chemical solvents.
• Occasional need to wear protective equipment (mask, respirator, goggles, gloves, etc.).
• Willingness to work in public view and interact frequently with the public.
• Willingness to interact with tour groups or news media as required.
• Previous experience working with asphalt-preserved fossil material strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, conserve, stabilize, and repair asphalt-preserved fossils using manual and chemical techniques.
• Manage staff, volunteers, students, and interns.
• Provide strategic planning and oversight of all Lab operations.
• Oversee lab administration and budget management.
• Ensure compliance with health & safety requirements and hazardous materials handling.
• Document daily work and maintain Fossil Lab spaces.
• Interact with researchers and assist with research projects.
• Collaborate across departments to support programs, exhibits, and priorities.
• Lead or assist with tours and interact with media and the public.

Skills

Paleont prep

Staff supervision

Osteology

Hazardous chemicals

Public science comm

Interpersonal skills

Job description

Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County (NHMLAC) is seeking a Lab Manager to direct the Fossil Lab operations at the La Brea Tar Pits. The role involves preparation and conservation of asphalt‑preserved fossils, staff leadership, and budget oversight, with frequent interaction with researchers and the public.

The position requires extensive paleontological prep experience, strong leadership, and excellent communication skills.