Senior Paleontologist — Lead CEQA & Field Projects (Hybrid)

Environmental Science Associates, Inc.; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 137,000 - 167,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

ESOP

401(k) plan

Paid vacation, sick leave, holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Environmental Science Associates, Inc. seeks a Senior Paleontologist with 20+ years of experience for Southern California projects. The role emphasizes monitoring, surveys, testing, fossil salvage, recordation, and CEQA-related documentation, with remote/hybrid options discussed for the right candidate.

The candidate must lead field crews, produce technically sound reports, mentor staff, and coordinate with interdisciplinary teams across California and beyond.

Qualifications

• You are a highly qualified senior paleontologist with 20+ years in relevant environments.
• You can lead paleontological evaluations, research, and analyses within a statewide team.
• You hold a graduate degree and can lead field crews and produce well-written, technically supported documents.
• You mentor junior staff and organize a paleontological practice for Southern California.

Responsibilities

• Manage and carry out surveys and technical document preparation on a range of projects.
• Lead archival research and paleontological resource assessments meeting CEQA and other requirements.
• Serve as primary author of paleontological resource assessment reports for MND/EIR.
• Supervise project teams, participate in client meetings, and assist in scopes of work and budgets.
• Provide mentorship and cross-train staff to support field and monitoring projects.
• Work in fast-paced environments, managing multiple responsibilities and deadlines.
• Prefer candidates with active construction site experience and Southern California field exposure.
• Walk long distances with gear; valid driver's license and off-road driving experience.

Skills

Field leadership

Technical writing

Time & budget management

Organizational skills

Agency coordination

Client service

CEQA knowledge

Education

Graduate degree in paleontology

Job description

Environmental Science Associates, Inc. seeks a Senior Paleontologist with 20+ years of experience for Southern California projects. The role emphasizes monitoring, surveys, testing, fossil salvage, recordation, and CEQA-related documentation, with remote/hybrid options discussed for the right candidate.

The candidate must lead field crews, produce technically sound reports, mentor staff, and coordinate with interdisciplinary teams across California and beyond.