Paleontological Technician

HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc.; California; On-site; USD 52,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc. is seeking an entry-level Paleontology Technician for as-needed, project-based work across Southern California. This role offers hands-on field exposure, collaboration with experienced paleontologists, and participation in meaningful resource protection projects.

Ideal for recent graduates and early-career professionals eager to gain field experience, learn on the job, and contribute to environmental consulting efforts in a dynamic team setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Paleontology, Geology, or a closely related field.
• Willingness to travel and stay overnight as needed.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct paleontological construction monitoring under project leadership.
• Assist with paleontological surveys and fossil salvage.
• Support laboratory activities, including fossil processing and cataloging.
• Maintain accurate field notes, maps, locality records, and project documentation.
• Assist with preparation of technical report sections.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Paleontology, Geology, or a closely related field

Job description

Looking to launch your career in paleontology while working on exciting environmental projects throughout Southern California? HELIX Environmental Planning is seeking as-needed Paleontology Technicians to join our growing Paleontological Resources team. This entry-level Paleontology Technician opportunity is ideal for recent graduates and early-career professionals eager to gain hands-on field experience, work alongside experienced paleontologists, and contribute to meaningful resource protection projects.

Why HELIX?

HELIX is a California-based, employee-owned environmental consulting firm that provides paleontological, cultural, biological, landscape architecture, regulatory permitting, acoustical, air quality, habitat restoration, and GIS services to public and private clients. As an as-needed Paleontology Technician, you’ll gain valuable field experience, develop technical skills, and work alongside experienced professionals on a variety of projects throughout Southern California.

This position is as-needed and project-based, with work assignments dependent on current project demands. The role offers flexibility and is a great opportunity for recent graduates, field school participants, graduate students, and early-career professionals looking to build experience in environmental consulting and paleontological resource management.

A Day in the Life

As a Paleontology Technician, no two days are the same. You may spend your day monitoring construction activities, assisting with fossil salvage efforts, conducting surveys, documenting field observations, or supporting laboratory work. This Paleontology Technician role offers excellent exposure to California geology and paleontology while providing opportunities to learn from experienced professionals in the field. If you enjoy outdoor work, scientific discovery, and hands-on learning, you’ll thrive as a Paleontology Technician at HELIX.

What You’ll Do

• Conduct paleontological construction monitoring under the direction of project leadership.
• Assist with paleontological surveys and fossil salvage efforts.
• Support laboratory activities, including fossil processing and cataloging.
• Maintain accurate field notes, maps, locality records, and project documentation.
• Assist with preparation of technical report sections.
• Participate in worker environmental awareness trainings.
• Provide high-quality work products on schedule and within budget.
• Bachelor’s degree in Paleontology, Geology, or a closely related field.
• Experience documenting stratigraphy through coursework, field studies, research, or professional experience.
• Ability and willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including high-heat environments.
• Valid California Driver’s License and reliable transportation.
• Willingness to travel and stay overnight as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• 1+ years of experience with construction monitoring
• Familiarity with paleontological mitigation practices and regulations.
• Meet qualifications for performing fieldwork on BLM land in CA and other western states under the supervision of a Principal Investigator or Field Agent.

Hourly wages will be based on qualifications and/or experience. Expected starting pay range of $25 to $35 per hour.

This position is an as-needed position and is utilized to supplement our full-time workforce. You will not be guaranteed a minimum number of hours.