Paleontological Field Director (Field Based)

ERM is hiring Paleontological Field Director to provide on-site paleontological resource monitoring and compliance support during surveys for our client’s gas pipeline in New Mexico.

 

The Paleontological Field Director works closely with construction personnel, project managers, and paleontological resources leads to implement monitoring and mitigation, 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 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/or Arizona State Land Department (ASLD) terms and conditions


* 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 Agent (Field Director) in Arizona and/or New Mexico; individuals listed as Field Monitor only 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 Survey123 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 re...