Principal Paleontologist

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Arizona.

📋 Description

• Act as EEG's primary authority on paleontological compliance, permitting, and regulatory strategies.

• Spearhead planning initiatives for substantial electric transmission, renewable energy, and infrastructure projects across the United States.

• Craft permitting strategies aimed at minimizing project risks while aligning with engineering, construction, and client goals.

• Provide guidance to executive leadership, project managers, and clients on intricate environmental planning and regulatory matters.

• Lead coordination efforts with federal, state, Tribal, and local regulatory agencies.

• Mentor Paleontologist I, II, and III staff members.

• Establish company standards, technical guidance documents, quality assurance protocols, and training programs.

• Support proposals, client interviews, executive presentations, and strategic business development efforts.

• Assess emerging paleontological compliance regulations and propose enhancements.

• Supervise daily operations of office/program personnel and manage workflow.

• Direct staffing, recruitment, and retention initiatives.

• Oversee project implementation, deadlines, budgets, and regulatory compliance.

• Review technical documentation to ensure quality assurance and control.

• Conduct paleontology studies and coordinate with local, regional, and national team members for field and desktop research.

• Engage with clients, agencies, and external stakeholders.

• Supervise field investigations, data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

• Develop management recommendations and mitigation strategies.

• Supervise proposal and budget preparation.

⛳️ Requirements

• Advanced degree (M.A. or Ph.D.) in paleontology, geology, geobiology, or a closely related discipline.

• Over 7 years of professional experience in conducting paleontological investigations in one or more states in the western United States.

• More than 3 years of experience in conducting paleontological resource surveys, identifying fossils in the field, fossil collection, and laboratory preparation.

• At least 2 years of experience in analysis and technical report writing.

• Minimum of 2 years of experience supervising field crews during field studies.

• Eligibility to be listed as Field Director or Principal Investigator on federal paleontological use permits.

• Comprehensive knowledge of federal regulations related to paleontological resources, along with state-specific knowledge/experience in one or more states in the western United States.

• Willingness to travel and perform fieldwork in often remote locations with challenging terrain and/or weather conditions.

• Experience in reviewing technical reports, permit applications, environmental documentation, and regulatory submissions.

• Proven ability to mentor technical professionals while enhancing organizational knowledge.

• Outstanding written, verbal, presentation, and facilitation skills.

• Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.

• Preferred: Over 10 years of professional experience conducting paleontological investigations in one or more states in the western United States.

• Preferred: Familiarity with the National Environmental Policy Act, Paleontological Resources Protection Act, and/or the California Environmental Quality Act.

• Preferred: Active engagement in the professional community.

• Preferred: Capacity to work both independently and collaboratively in a team setting.

• Preferred: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, capable of effectively engaging with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

🏝️ Benefits

• An inclusive and welcoming culture.

• Access to training, tools, and opportunities for professional advancement.

• Equal opportunity for career progression.

• Opportunities for professional development and mentorship.