The North Dakota (ND) Geological Survey Division of the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) has an opening for a Paleontology Section Manager based in the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum on the ND Capitol Grounds in Bismarck, North Dakota.

The North Dakota Geological Survey (NDGS) publishes maps and reports on ND's mineral, paleontological, and geochemical resources, including oil, gas, coal, uranium, clay, sand and gravel, volcanic ash, potash, other mineral deposits, and the state's surface geology. NDGS also regulates coal exploration; subsurface mineral exploration and development covering all minerals and compounds other than oil, gas, sand, gravel, and coal; commercial and residential geothermal facilities; and paleontological resources on state owned lands. https://www.dmr.nd.gov/dmr/ndgs

About the Paleontology Section
The Paleontology Section of the North Dakota Geological Survey (NDGS) manages the ND State Fossil Collection, develops paleontology exhibits statewide, and works with state and federal partners to protect North Dakota's paleontological resources. The Section Manager oversees three full-time staff, seasonal employees, and all paleontology collections and laboratory spaces.

Summary of Work

The Paleontology Section Manager leads a collaborative, education focused team and fosters a positive, goal oriented work environment. This role directs NDGS's Public Fossil Dig Program at multiple statewide field sites each summer, conducts additional year-round field surveys and excavations, and communicates the program's work to diverse audiences across multiple platforms.

The Manager reviews proposed infrastructure projects for potential impacts to paleontological resources, recommends mitigation strategies when needed, and issues permits for paleontological work on state owned or state managed lands.

The successful candidate will lead an active research program focused on ND paleontology, promoting collaboration with outside researchers, including presenting at scientific conferences, and publishing peer reviewed papers, publications, and articles on paleontological research.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Geology, Biology, Zoology, Life Sciences or closely related Paleontology field.
• Demonstrated experience communicating scientific topics in paleontology or geology to diverse audiences, verifying strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to organize and lead paleontological fieldwork.
• Possession of a valid driver's license and auto insurance.

Preferred Qualifications

Additional Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Include:

• PhD in Geology, Biology, Zoology, Life Sciences or closely related Paleontology field.
• Experience managing paleontology staff and budgets.
• Experience working in a museum environment.
• Strong paleontology publication record, with at least 5 first authored publications
• Experience collaborating with state and federal partners to evaluate and protect paleontological resources
• Experience 3D scanning and/or 3D printing fossils
• Experience operating vehicles on unpaved roads and towing trailers

Application Procedures

Applicants must complete an online application via the State of ND Careers site by 11:59 p.m. on the closing date.

Detailed questions related to previous publications and the fit of your research to the ND fossil record will need to be provided within the application.

Documents Below Must be Attached to Application:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Unofficial College Transcripts
• A list of 3 or more professional references with contact information

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The ND Department of Mineral Resources does not provide sponsorships. Due to access to restricted information, the successful candidate will be required to complete a satisfactory criminal background check.

For more information about the position contact: Clint Boyd at [email protected] or 701-328-8163. For accommodation or assistance in the application or interview process, please contact Lynn Burgard at [email protected] or 701-328-4737.

Agency Specific

What can we offer you?

• Salary: $8,000 - $9,833 per month ($96,000 - $118,000 annually)
• The opportunity to lead a collaborative team of dedicated paleontologists working to document, research, and protect North Dakota's paleontological resources.
• A flexible, self-directed work routine with occasional evenings and weekend work required
• Work in a well-equipped lab and collections facility, in the wonderful capital city of ND
• Excellent Benefits including 100% employer paid family health insurance