Paleontology Assistant Preparator, Occasional

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is seeking a Paleontology Assistant Preparator to interpret the paleontology process for the public and to prepare fossil material under the supervision of the Lead Paleontologist and Manager of Natural Science Collections.

The incumbent will assist in basic fossil preparation and participate in public programs, tours, and events, supporting safe lab operations, specimen conservation, and accessibility of science for visitors of all ages.

Qualifications

• Strong science (biology or geology) background preferred.
• One year experience in mechanical preparation and conservation of micro- and macro-fossil specimens.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills; able to handle multiple projects.
• Ability to work effectively as a team member and with the public.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Presents information concerning the operation of the Paleo Prep Lab, specimen preparation, and paleontology for the public, museum staff, volunteers, interns, and visitors of all ages.
• Participates and assists in public programs, tours, and after-hour events as assigned.
• Conducts manual and mechanical fossil preparation techniques under supervision; may work with molding, casting, restoration, and conservation of fossils.
• Assists in the day-to-day operations of the Paleo Prep Lab, including maintenance of tools and monitoring lab safety.
• Assists in cleaning and monitoring the condition of specimens on display in the museum and the collection for conservation purposes.

Skills

Vertebrate paleontology experience

Public science interpretation

Strong communication skills

Job description

OVERVIEW: The Paleontology Assistant Preparator interprets the paleontology process to the public and prepares fossil material as needed under the supervision of the Lead Paleontologist and Manager of Natural Science Collections for The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. The incumbent prepares basic fossil material.

Job Details

Description

OVERVIEW

The Paleontology Assistant Preparator interprets the paleontology process to the public and prepares fossil material as needed under the supervision of the Lead Paleontologist and Manager of Natural Science Collections for The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. The incumbent prepares basic fossil material.

The Children’s Museum is building and sustaining an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates differences. We believe that collaboration and open dialogue among people with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives best support our vision and mission.

Essential Responsibilities

• Presents information concerning the operation of the Paleo Prep Lab, specimen preparation, and paleontology for the public, museum staff, volunteers, interns, and visitors of all ages.
• Participates and assists in public programs, tours, and after-hour events as assigned.
• Conducts manual and mechanical fossil preparation techniques under the supervision of Paleo Preparator or Lead Paleontologist. May work with the molding, casting, restoration, and conservation of fossils.
• Assists in the day-to-day operations of the Paleo Prep Lab, including maintenance of tools and monitoring lab safety.
• Assists in cleaning and monitoring the condition of specimens on display in the museum and the collection for conservation purposes.

Requirements

• Strong science (biology or geology preferred) or science education background required. Prior experience with vertebrate paleontology or with public science interpretation preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of basic field geology skills. One (1) year experience in the mechanical preparation and conservation of both micro- and macro-fossil specimens.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills and the ability to handle multiple projects at the same time.
• Ability to work effectively as a team member and with the public.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and excellent attention to detail.
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment that values diversity and is child-centric.
• Must interact with visitors and co-workers in a supportive, positive, and friendly manner.
• Special consideration is given to those applicants who are multi-lingual

Ada Requirements

• Must be able to view computer monitor, review documents, examining specimens, prepare exhibitions, and conduct research.
• Must be able to communicate extensively and effectively via telephone, face-to-face conversations, and public presentations.
• Requires the ability to navigate uneven rough terrain and reach above shoulders with repetitive motion of upper body and limbs.
• Requires the ability to perform extensive prep work, and maintenance; fine motor skills for small items and specimen manipulation.
• Requires the ability to lift up to approximately 40 pounds, as well as climb, bend, kneel, sit, or stand for extended periods in extreme outdoor climates.