Field Paleontologist (On-call)

Bancroft Construction Services provides environmental compliance, biological monitoring, and construction support services for public and private infrastructure projects. Our team works closely with construction managers, contractors, and regulatory agencies to ensure projects are completed efficiently while maintaining full compliance with environmental permits and regulations.We are seeking a qualified variable on-call Field Paleontologist to support paleontological resource compliance during active construction projects. This position plays a key role in monitoring ground-disturbing activities, protecting paleontological resources, and ensuring compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations while working collaboratively with construction and environmental teams in dynamic field settings.This is an on-call, project-based position with variable hours depending on project needs.Position SummaryThe Field Paleontologist will provide on-site paleontological monitoring and compliance support during active construction activities. The position involves monitoring ground-disturbing work, identifying and documenting fossil resources, and ensuring compliance with applicable federal, state, and local paleontological resource regulations and permit conditions.The Field Paleontologist works closely with construction personnel, project managers, and paleontological resources leads to implement avoidance measures, respond to discoveries, and support uninterrupted project progress while maintaining regulatory compliance. This role requires independent field judgment, clear communication, and the ability to work safely in active construction environments.The position requires the ability to work independently in the field, communicate effectively with construction personnel and project managers, and make sound, real-time decisions to maintain regulatory compliance.Duties & ResponsibilitiesMonitor ground-disturbing construction activities for potential paleontological resource discoveriesConduct paleontological monitoring during grading, trenching, excavation, and utility installationIdentify, document, and assess fossil materials and paleontological resources Implement unanticipated discovery and fossil salvage procedures in accordance with project permits and mitigation measuresCoordinate in real time with construction crews, superintendents, and project managers Maintain compliance with paleontological resource permit conditions and environmental commitmentsComplete daily monitoring logs, field notes, and photographic documentationCollect GPS data and accurately record field observationsAssist with preparation of monitoring summaries, fossil discovery documentation, and technical memorandaCommunicate findings, compliance concerns, and work status to project managers and senior paleontologistsParticipate in construction worker paleontological resource awareness briefings as neededSupport coordination with museums, repositories, and regulatory agencies, when applicablePerform additional field or office support tasks as assignedMinimum QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Paleontology, Geology, Earth Sciences, or a closely related fieldMinimum of 2–3 years of professional experience in paleontological fieldwork or construction monitoringExperience monitoring construction or infrastructure projectsWorking knowledge of CEQA, NEPA, and paleontological resource compliance requirementsAbility to identify common vertebrate and invertebrate fossil materialsValid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving recordAbility to work safely in active construction environments and outdoor field conditionsPreferred QualificationsMaster’s degree in Paleontology, Geology, or a related fieldExperience with Southern California paleontological resources and regional geologyFamiliarity with Society of Vertebrate Paleontology (SVP) guidelines and local agency permitting requirementsExperience implementing fossil salvage, stabilization, and documentation proceduresExperience using GPS units, Survey123, ArcGIS, or similar field data collection toolsExperience preparing technical reports, monitoring summaries, or fossil discovery documentationOSHA 10- or 30-hour construction safety trainingWork EnvironmentThis 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 equipmentOccasional travel throughout Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego CountiesCandidates must be physically capable of performing required field duties safelyPay: Hourly Rate: $26 -41/hr. This position is not benefit-eligiblePay range for 0-2 years of Field Paleontology experience $26-34/hr. Pay range for 2-3 years of Field Paleontology experience $35-41/hr.Equal Opportunity EmployerBancroft Construction Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including women, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.