Lead Field Paleontologist & Project Monitor

SWCA, Incorporated; Sheridan (WY); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Temporary Assistant Project Paleontologist to support projects in the Rocky Mountain Plains region, based out of the Denver or Sheridan office. The role focuses on paleontological monitoring, surveys, fossil recovery, data collection, and field leadership on projects across the western United States.

Ideal candidates have Wyoming mitigation experience, strong field leadership, and the ability to travel and work long field days in remote locations.

Qualifications

• Must qualify as a Wyoming Paleontological Resource Use Permit Field Agent.
• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Paleontology, Geology, Biology, or a related field preferred; Bachelor's degree may be considered with equivalent Wyoming-based experience and project leadership responsibilities.
• Minimum four years of professional paleontological consulting experience with increasing responsibility.
• Minimum two years of paleontological mitigation experience in Wyoming.
• Experience leading field crews and conducting construction monitoring projects.
• Experience preparing or contributing to paleontological mitigation reports for BLM or other regulatory agencies.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and conduct paleontological monitoring, surveys, fossil recovery, and data collection.
• Plan and coordinate field efforts, including staffing, equipment, logistics, and daily work assignments.
• Ensure data accuracy, quality control, and completion of field documentation and deliverables.
• Prepare or contribute to technical reports, impact assessments, and management recommendations.
• Mentor and direct field, laboratory, and junior staff.
• Communicate effectively with project managers, clients, agencies, contractors, and field teams.
• Support and uphold SWCA safety requirements.

Skills

Field leadership

Paleontology

Monitoring

Data collection

Communication

Team mentoring

Education

Master's or PhD in Paleontology/Geology/Biology

Bachelor's with equivalent Wyoming-based experience

Job description

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Temporary Assistant Project Paleontologist to support projects in the Rocky Mountain Plains region, based out of the Denver or Sheridan office. The role focuses on paleontological monitoring, surveys, fossil recovery, data collection, and field leadership on projects across the western United States.

Ideal candidates have Wyoming mitigation experience, strong field leadership, and the ability to travel and work long field days in remote locations.