ERM is hiring Paleontological Field Director to provide on-site paleontological resource monitoring and compliance support during the construction phase of our client's fiber optic project in Northern Nevada.
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- Monitor construction activities for potential paleontological resource discoveries as instructed, such as during grading, trenching, excavation, and utility installation
- Identify, document, and evaluate paleontological resources in a variety of sedimentary rocks or alluvial deposits
- Implement unanticipated discovery procedures in accordance with project permits and monitoring plans
- Coordinate in real time with construction crews, project managers, and paleontological resource leads
- Maintain compliance with BLM paleontological resources use permit (PRUP) terms and conditions
- Complete daily monitoring logs, field notes, and photographic documentation
- Collect GPS data as instructed
- Assist with preparation of monitoring summaries, discovery documentation, and technical memoranda
- Communicate findings, compliance concerns, and work status to project managers and senior paleontologists
- Participate in construction worker paleontological resource awareness briefings as needed
- 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 Great Basin/Nevada paleontological survey and construction monitoring
- Familiarity BLM paleontology guidelines and previously listed as a permitted Field Agent (Field Director) in Nevada; 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 screening sedimentary matrix for fossils and salvaging fossils
- Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record
- Ability to work safely in active construction environments and outdoor field conditions
- 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 the Southwestern or Rocky Mountains subregions
- 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 monitors
- Experience supporting the preparation of technical reports, monitoring summaries, or discovery documentation
- OSHA 10- or 30-hour construction safety training
- Wilderness and Remote First Aid Training
Work EnvironmentThis position is field-intensive and may involve:
- Long hours in outdoor environments and temperature extremes
- Walking or hiking on uneven terrain while carrying field equipment
- Working in active construction sites around heavy equipment
- Candidates must be physically capable of performing required field duties safely.
For the Paleontological Field Directorposition, the anticipated annual base pay is
$X-$Y (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 paysubject 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.
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.
