Paleontological Field Technician; Field Technician

Position: Paleontological Field Technician (Field Technician)
ERM is hiring Paleontological Field Technician's to provide on-site paleontological resource compliance support during surveys for our client’s gas pipeline in New Mexico.

The Paleontological Field Technician works closely with project managers and paleontological resources leads to conduct surveying, respond to discoveries, and support uninterrupted project progress while maintaining regulatory compliance. This role requires strong field judgment, clear communication, and the ability to work safely and effectively in active construction environments.

The position requires the ability to work independently, communicate effectively with project teams, and make sound, real-time decisions in the field. Successful candidates must be flexible and responsive to a changing work environment where schedules, site locations, and tasks fluctuate according to the needs of the project. This is a full-time (40-50 hours/week), limited-term role with a duration of 3 months and the possibility of extension.

Responsibilities Survey pre-defined study areas or project alignments for potential paleontological resources or fossils, following protocols defined in survey plans

Identify, document, and evaluate paleontological resources in a variety of sedimentary rocks or alluvial deposits

Coordinate in real time with paleontology principal investigators, other field directors, archaeologists, and project managers

Maintain compliance with BLM paleontological resources use permit (PRUP) and state requirements

Complete daily survey notes, logs, and photographic documentation

Collect GPS data as instructed

Assist with preparation of survey summaries, discovery documentation, and technical memoranda

Communicate daily findings and work status to project managers and senior paleontologists

Support coordination with subcontractors on site, when applicable

Other duties as assigned or required

Compliance with ERM’s rigorous safety program

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Geology, Paleontology, Anthropology, or Biology, or a closely related field preferred

Minimum of 2-3 years of professional experience in paleontological survey and construction monitoring in Arizona and New Mexico Familiarity BLM paleontology guidelines and previously listed as a permitted Field Monitor or Field Assistant in Arizona and/or New Mexico; individuals who have met these qualifications in other states are encouraged to apply

Ability to identify a variety of paleontological resources, including vertebrate, invertebrate, plant, and microscopic fossils

Experience using GPS units and Esri software, including Survey
123 and Field Maps, on tablets

Experience salvaging fossils and high-level taxonomic and morphologic identification of findings

Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record

Ability to work safely in outdoor field conditions, including in arid, hot environments

Ability to hike up to 10 miles per day and carry up to 50 lbs

Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree preferred. Candidates with relevant professional experience demonstrating a commensurate level of knowledge and expertise are also encouraged to apply.

Listed as a Field Agent (Field Director) on other BLM or state permits throughout California, Southwestern states, or Rocky Mountains states

Previous experience preparing large plaster jackets to safely encase and remove fossils from sites

Experience working in remote areas for extended periods

Demonstrated ability to support projects requiring sustained field engagement

Experience working alongside Native American tribal representatives or archaeologists

Experience supporting the preparation of technical reports, monitoring summaries, or discovery documentation OSHA 10- or 30-hour construction safety training

Wilderness and Remote First…