Staff Paleontologist (As-Needed)

About the role

Ready to uncover the past while helping shape the future? HELIX Environmental Planning is seeking an experienced Staff Paleontologist to join our growing Paleontological Resources team. If you're passionate about fieldwork, fossils, construction monitoring, and California paleontology, this Staff Paleontologist opportunity offers meaningful project work, professional independence, and the chance to contribute to a respected environmental consulting firm.

At HELIX, we're an employee-owned environmental consulting firm delivering innovative solutions across paleontological resources, biological resources, cultural resources, landscape architecture, permitting, habitat restoration, GIS, and more. Our collaborative culture, diverse project portfolio, and commitment to quality make HELIX a rewarding place to build your career. This is an as-needed, field-based opportunity supporting projects primarily in San Diego County and surrounding areas of southern California with an immediate hiring need.

As a Staff Paleontologist, your day may begin at an active construction site monitoring earth-moving activities, identifying fossil-bearing geologic units, and documenting field observations. You may then assist with a paleontological survey, perform fossil salvage, conduct background research, catalog specimens in the lab, or support technical report preparation. Every day as a Staff Paleontologist offers a unique blend of science, fieldwork, collaboration, and discovery.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent paleontological monitoring for construction projects.
• Assist with or lead paleontological surveys and fossil salvage efforts.
• Perform laboratory work, including cataloging paleontological materials.
• Support technical analyses, research, and report preparation.
• Draft memos, letters, and report sections.
• Maintain accurate field notes, maps, project files, and work logs.
• Deliver high-quality work products on schedule and within budget.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in paleontology, geology, or a closely related field.
• 5+ years of paleontological experience.
• Experience with fossil salvage and laboratory preparation.
• Experience documenting paleontological localities.
• Experience documenting stratigraphy.
• Ability to work outdoors in high-heat environments for extended periods.
• Meet qualifications for City of San Diego-approved monitors.
• Meet qualifications to perform fieldwork as a monitor or field agent on BLM lands in California.
• Valid California Driver's License and reliable transportation.
• Willingness to travel and stay overnight when needed.

Qualifications

• Meet qualifications for performing fieldwork on BLM land in other western states.
• Construction monitoring experience.
• Experience preparing paleontological report sections supporting CEQA documentation.

Pay

Compensation $30 - $38 per hour, based on experience and qualifications.