On-Call Paleontological Monitor

We are looking for a qualified Paleontological Monitor to support a variety of infrastructure and development projects across Southern California. This part‑time, on‑call role is ideal for a San Diego‑based professional with at least one year of paleontological monitoring experience. The position involves fieldwork during construction activities to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local environmental regulations.

This opportunity allows you to work on high‑profile projects in sectors such as transportation, renewable energy, military, and public infrastructure, with the potential for additional assignments throughout California.

$70,900.00/yr – $/yr (hourly based on hours worked).

• Conduct paleontological monitoring during ground‑disturbing activities in compliance with project‑specific mitigation plans.
• Identify, document, and recover fossil resources in the field.
• Maintain detailed field notes, fossil locality forms, and monitoring logs.
• Coordinate with project managers, environmental teams, and construction personnel.
• Ensure compliance with applicable state and federal laws, regulations, and guidelines, including:
• California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
• California Public Resources Code Sections 5097.5 and 30244
• Paleontological Resources Preservation Act (PRPA)
• National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
• American Antiquities Act
• Caltrans Standard Environmental Reference, Paleontology guidelines
• Society of Vertebrate Paleontology (SVP) Guidelines
• Travel to project sites across Southern California as needed.

• Bachelor’s degree in geology, earth sciences, biology, or a closely related field with an emphasis in paleontology (or anthropology/archaeology with relevant background).
• Experience in field geology and/or paleontology, including field mapping, sedimentologic and strati graphic data collection, fossil collection, and contextualizing find locations with attention to taphonomy and depositional environment.
• Minimum 1 year of professional paleontological monitoring experience in California.
• Must be based in or near San Diego, CA.
• Familiarity with California state regulations and local agency requirements for paleontological resources.
• Proficiency with GPS technology, field documentation software, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently in remote field conditions for extended hours (8–10 hour days).
• Strong communication, organizational, and observational skills.

• Cross‑training or dual experience in archaeology and paleontology.
• Experience conducting literature reviews, geological mapping, and strati graphic documentation.
• Familiarity with Society of Vertebrate Paleontology (SVP) standards and willingness to gain membership.
• Experience contributing to technical reports and fossil recovery documentation.
• Experience working in a consulting or compliance‑driven environment.

Employees have access to a 401(k) plan and legally mandated benefits. Our benefits are designed to invest in your health, well‑being, security, and future.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Qualified applicants with criminal histories will be considered for employment.

Recruiters may contact candidates for assistance or reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. We value collaboration and support a hybrid working policy that allows employees to split their work week between on‑site and remote locations.