Senior Paleontologist

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AECOM is seeking an experienced Senior Paleontologist to join our Cultural Resouces team.  This is a full-time, hybrid role that will report to our California teams and candidate should be Southern California based.

Candidates should possess expertise leading field monitoring operations. Ability to provide taxonomic identification of vertebrate and/or invertebrate fossils to genus- or species-level for various projects a plus. In addition, the qualified candidate must have experience writing paleontological technical reports and CEQA/NEPA documents.

Duties and Responsibilities will include, but not limited to:

• Demonstrated professional experience preparing paleontological studies, reports, and plans, and successfully leading paleontological fieldwork throughout California.
• Strong, concise writing, research and data management skills (writing samples required).
• Strong communication skills (both with clients and coworkers).
• Ability to clearly communicate federal, state and local regulatory requirements to clients.
• Team-oriented attitude and approach.
• Demonstrated laboratory and technical analysis expertise a plus.
• The potential for additional work, for qualified individuals is available.
• Candidates must have the ability to travel and conduct fieldwork throughout southern California.

About AECOM’s Environment Business Line
Join AECOM to be part of an expert global team who is connected through a well-developed, worldwide, internal technical practice network through which you can learn from and brainstorm with the best in the world. AECOM is an industry-leading, world class environmental firm, and we want you to succeed within it.  We respect and encourage your own pathway to excellence via our Freedom to Grow initiative.

AECOM is known for our award-winning technical excellence, leading-edge science and innovative project delivery. We provide sustainable solutions for some of the world’s most challenging issues. Our global clients and their projects span a variety of market sectors and geographies and require innovative technical solutions to solve wide-ranging environmental problems.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in paleontology preferred or related field such as geology or biology.
• 6 years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education focused on fieldwork, technical reports and CEQA/NEPA documents. 
• Outdoor activity may involve walking/trekking in uneven terrain over long distances in extreme weather conditions for extended periods of time.
• Valid U.S driver's license is required for this role; and must be able to travel to job sites safely. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• M.S or Ph.D. in Paleontology preferred or related field such as geology or biology.
• 10+ years of relevant paleontology experience focused on technical reports and CEQA/NEPA documents.
• Candidates may be dual qualified in Archaeology
• 10 years of experience in management work.
• Strong understanding of federal, state and local environmental regulations including NEPA, CEQA, Section 106 of the NHPA.
• Knowledge and understanding of the regional geology of southern California.
• Ability to direct field recovery of fossil specimens in the field.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to read topographic maps, geological maps, and project maps.
• Able to work cooperatively with crew members, supervisors, and clients.

• Due to the nature of the work, US Citizenship is required.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.