Paleontological Field Technician (Field Based)

ERM is hiring Paleontological Field Technician to provide on-site paleontological resource compliance support during surveys for our client’s gas pipeline in Nevada. 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 6 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 plansIdentify, document, and evaluate paleontological resources in a variety of sedimentary rocks or alluvial depositsCoordinate in real time with paleontology principal investigators, other field directors, archaeologists, and project managersMaintain compliance with BLM paleontological resources use permit (PRUP) and/or Arizona State Land Department (ASLD) terms and conditionsComplete daily survey notes, logs, and photographic documentationCollect GPS data as instructedAssist with preparation of survey summaries, discovery documentation, and technical memorandaCommunicate daily findings and work status to project managers and senior paleontologistsSupport coordination with subcontractors on site, when applicableOther duties as assigned or requiredCompliance with ERM’s rigorous safety program Requirements Bachelor's degree in Geology, Paleontology, Anthropology, or Biology, or a closely related field preferredMinimum of 2-3 years of professional experience in paleontological survey and construction monitoring in Arizona and New MexicoFamiliarity 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 applyAbility to identify a variety of paleontological resources, including vertebrate, invertebrate, plant, and microscopic fossilsExperience using GPS units and Esri software, including Survey123 and Field Maps, on tabletsExperience salvaging fossils and high-level taxonomic and morphologic identification of findingsValid driver's license with a satisfactory driving recordAbility to work safely in outdoor field conditions, including in arid, hot environmentsAbility 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 statesPrevious experience preparing large plaster jackets to safely encase and remove fossils from sitesExperience working in remote areas for extended periodsDemonstrated ability to support projects requiring sustained field engagementExperience working alongside Native American tribal representatives or archaeologistsExperience supporting the preparation of technical reports, monitoring summaries, or discovery documentationOSHA 10- or 30-hour construction safety trainingWilderness and Remote First Aid Training Work Environment This position is field-intensive and may involve: Long hours in outdoor environments and temperature extremesWalking or hiking on uneven terrain while carrying field equipmentWorking in active construction sites around heavy equipmentCandidates must be physically capable of performing required field duties safely. For the Paleontological Field Technician position, the anticipated annual base pay is $35.57- $45.63 (USD). Actual pay will depend on factors such as education, experience, skills, location, performance, and business needs. In some cases, pay may fall outside this range. This role may be eligible for bonus pay subject to the sole discretion of ERM and its policies and procedures (casual and fixed term/flex force employees are not bonus eligible). We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off (vacation, sick, and floating holidays), parental leave, medical, dental, vision, life, disability, AD&D insurance, 401(k), and other applicable benefits to eligible employees. Who We Are: As the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy, we partner with the world’s leading organizations, creating innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and unlocking commercial opportunities that meet the needs of today while preserving opportunity for future generations. At ERM we know that creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive work environment is an essential part of making our company a great place to build a career. We also see our diversity as a strength that helps us create better solutions for our clients. Our diverse team of world-class experts supports clients across the breadth of their organizations to operationalize sustainability, underpinned by our deep technical expertise in addressing their environmental, health, safety, risk and social issues. We call this capability our “boots to boardroom” approach for its comprehensive service model that allows ERM to develop strategic and technical solutions that advance objectives on the ground or at the executive level. Please submit your resume and brief cover letter. ERM does not accept recruiting agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, ERM employees or any other company location. ERM is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes. ERM is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. Thank you for your interest in ERM!