Paleontological Field Director (Field Based)

ERM; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

ERM is seeking a Paleontological Field Director to provide on-site monitoring and compliance during surveys for a gas pipeline project in the Southwest U.S. The role focuses on real-time decision-making, safety, and effective collaboration with construction teams, PIs, and project managers.

The position is full-time (40-50 hours/week) for 6 months with potential extension, requiring field flexibility, travel, and the ability to handle demanding outdoor conditions in arid environments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Geology, Paleontology, Anthropology, or Biology or closely related field preferred.
• Minimum 2-3 years of professional experience in paleontological survey and construction monitoring in AZ/NM.
• Familiarity with BLM guidelines and field agent permits; Field Director experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Survey predefined study areas for paleontological resources per survey plans.
• Identify, document, and evaluate paleontological resources in rocks and deposits.
• Coordinate with PIs, field directors, archaeologists, and project managers in real time.
• Maintain PRUP/ASLD permit compliance and document daily records.
• Collect GPS data and assist with survey summaries and discovery documentation.
• Communicate findings and work status to project managers and senior paleontologists.

Skills

Field judgment

Clear communication

Safety aware

Team coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree (Geology, Paleontology, Anthropology, or Biology)

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

GPS units

Esri software (Survey123, Field Maps)

Job description

ERM is hiring Paleontological Field Director to provide on-site paleontological resource monitoring and compliance support during surveys for our client's gas pipeline in New Mexico.

The Paleontological Field Director works closely with construction personnel, project managers, and paleontological resources leads to implement monitoring and mitigation, respond to discoveries, and support uninterrupted project progress while maintaining regulatory compliance. This role requires strong field judgment, clear communication, and the ability to work safely and effectively in active construction environments.

The position requires the ability to work independently, communicate effectively with project teams, and make sound, real-time decisions in the field. Successful candidates must be flexible and responsive to a changing work environment where schedules, site locations, and tasks fluctuate according to the needs of the project. This is a full-time (40-50 hours/week), limited-term role with a duration of 6 months and the possibility of extension.

Responsibilities

• Survey pre-defined study areas or project alignments for potential paleontological resources or fossils, following protocols defined in survey plans
• Identify, document, and evaluate paleontological resources in a variety of sedimentary rocks or alluvial deposits
• Coordinate in real time with paleontology principal investigators, other field directors, archaeologists, and project managers
• Maintain compliance with BLM paleontological resources use permit (PRUP) and/or Arizona State Land Department (ASLD) terms and conditions
• Complete daily survey notes, logs, and photographic documentation
• Collect GPS data as instructed
• Assist with preparation of survey summaries, discovery documentation, and technical memoranda
• Communicate daily findings and work status to project managers and senior paleontologists
• Support coordination with subcontractors on site, when applicable
• Other duties as assigned or required
• Compliance with ERM’s rigorous safety program

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Geology, Paleontology, Anthropology, or Biology, or a closely related field preferred
• Minimum of 2-3 years of professional experience in paleontological survey and construction monitoring in Arizona and New Mexico
• Familiarity BLM paleontology guidelines and previously listed as a permitted Field Agent (Field Director) in Arizona and/or New Mexico; individuals listed as Field Monitor only are encouraged to apply
• Ability to identify a variety of paleontological resources, including vertebrate, invertebrate, plant, and microscopic fossils
• Experience using GPS units and Esri software, including Survey123 and Field Maps, on tablets
• Experience salvaging fossils and high-level taxonomic and morphologic identification of findings
• Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record
• Ability to work safely in outdoor field conditions, including in arid, hot environments
• Ability to hike up to 10 miles per day and carry up to 50 lbs

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree preferred. Candidates with relevant professional experience demonstrating a commensurate level of knowledge and expertise are also encouraged to apply.
• Listed as a Field Agent (Field Director) on other BLM or state permits throughout California, Southwestern states, or Rocky Mountains states
• Previous experience preparing large plaster jackets to safely encase and remove fossils from sites
• Experience working in remote areas for extended periods
• Demonstrated ability to support projects requiring sustained field engagement
• Experience working alongside Native American tribal representatives or archaeologists
• Experience supporting the preparation of technical reports, monitoring summaries, or discovery documentation
• OSHA 10- or 30-hour construction safety training
• Wilderness and Remote First Aid Training

Work Environment

This position is field-intensive and may involve:

• Long hours in outdoor environments and temperature extremes
• Walking or hiking on uneven terrain while carrying field equipment
• Working in active construction sites around heavy equipment
• Candidates must be physically capable of performing required field duties safely.