Paleontology Technician (Entry-Level, As-Needed)

HELIX ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING, INC.; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc. is seeking as-needed Paleontology Technicians to join our Paleontological Resources team in Southern California. This entry-level role is ideal for graduates eager to gain hands-on field experience and contribute to resource protection projects.

You'll monitor construction activities, assist with fossil salvage, conduct surveys, document field observations, and support lab work, with opportunities to learn from seasoned paleontologists in the field.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Paleontology, Geology, or a closely related field.
• Experience documenting stratigraphy through coursework, field studies, research, or professional experience.
• Ability 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

Outdoor work

Documentation

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Paleontology, Geology, or related field

Job description

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.

Compensation

$25 - $35 per hour, based on experience and qualifications.

HELIX is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and an inclusive work environment. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply regardless of gender, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, disability, age, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service or veteran status. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs.

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Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• 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.