The Ultimate Paleontologist Career Guide

What is a paleontologist?

Paleontologists excavate and study fossils of extinct species of plants and animals. Most people think of them as finding and studying dinosaur bones, but these professionals study many other prehistoric life forms as well. They work to piece together the evolution of plant and animal life through their discoveries and research, and theorize about what life was like for these prehistoric life forms.

Some paleontologists work at excavation sites where fossils have been discovered. They work meticulously to unearth the fossils without damaging them and carefully transport them to museums and research institutes for study. They must be very careful as fossils can be thousands, or even millions, of years old, and can be extremely fragile. Other paleontologists teach and conduct research in universities or study the evolution of plants and animals in private research facilities.

Qualifications and eligibility

The qualifications of a paleontologist include the right combination of education and training to succeed in their role:

Education

A bachelor’s degree in geology, earth science, or a related field is the minimum amount of education required to work as an entry-level paleontologist. However, a master’s degree or doctorate in paleontology is highly preferred and most jobs in paleontology require a postgraduate degree.

Training

Aspiring paleontologists can find opportunities for training by applying for internships and doing volunteer work. Many universities can help students find internships while they’re working on their undergraduate degrees. You can also find training by working in museums.

Although certifications and licenses are not required to work as a paleontologist, registering with a professional organization, such as the International Paleontological Association, is a good way to demonstrate your expertise.

Beyond education and training, a paleontologist needs to have excellent verbal and written communication skills to present findings through presentations and published works. They must be organized to keep track of fossil locations, where fossils are transported, and who is working on them. They will need good research and observation skills as well. A wide base of scientific knowledge is very useful to identify and analyze fossils. These individuals also need to have a good amount of physical stamina as they can spend long hours of painstaking and careful work outdoors.

Work environment

Most paleontologists work as university professors where they also conduct research and publish their work in scientific journals. Many participate in field expeditions during the summer. They spend much of their time teaching in the classroom, analyzing findings in the lab, or writing papers and grading school work in the office.

Paleontologists who do fieldwork may be exposed to various and sometimes extreme weather conditions. Getting to job sites can be physically strenuous while hiking over rough terrain, up mountainsides, and through muddy fields. They often have to carry tools and research equipment in backpacks. The days are irregular and can be unpredictable.

Those who work at research facilities typically divide their time between the lab and the office.

Many paleontologists work in museums, historical exhibits, oil, gas, and mining companies, and for the state and federal government in office, lab, and field settings.

Typical work hours

The work hours for paleontologists in the field can be long and unpredictable. They can spend hours crouching, digging, cleaning, and carefully extracting bones and other artifacts from excavation sites. They might have to travel long distances, even overseas to foreign countries, and spend days or weeks in the field at a time. Those who work in universities can have varied hours due to classroom schedules, and spend some hours of their day doing lab work. The professionals who work in the private sector tend to have regular 40-hour weeks in an office or laboratory setting.

Types of paleontologists

There are several different types of paleontologists. When considering this career, the types of paleontology you can choose from include:

Biostratigraphy – the study of the vertical distribution of fossils in rocks
Invertebrate Paleontology – the study of fossils of invertebrate animals (those without backbones), such as bivalves, trilobites, crinoids, and corals
Paleobotany – the study of plant fossils
Micropaleontology – the study of fossils of single-celled organisms, such as bacteria, protists, foraminifera, and diatoms
Vertebrate Paleontology – the study of fossils of vertebrate animals (those with backbones), including fish, mammals, reptiles and dinosaurs, and birds
Paleoecology – the study of ancient ecosystems and how they developed
Taphonomy – the study of how fossils form and are preserved
Paleoanthropology – the study of ancient hominins (humans)
Paleontology – the study of fossil woods
Paleopalynology – the study of pollen, spores, and microscopic plankton fossils to study past environments.
Paleopathology – the study of diseases and injuries of ancient animals and plants
Molecular Paleontology – the study of the DNA, lipids, carbohydrates, and more of prehistoric life
Evolutionary Development Paleontology – the study of the developmental processes of different organisms to understand ancestral relationships.

Income potential

The earning potential for a paleontologist can vary greatly depending on geographic location, education, experience, and acquired skills.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, The median annual wage for geoscientists was $83,680 in May 2021. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $48,880, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $172,490. Geoscientists include engineering geologists, geologists, geochemists, geophysicists, oceanographers, paleontologists, petroleum geologists, and seismologists.

The average salary for paleontologists in some major cities according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics is:

Houston, TX – $131,410
Oklahoma City, OK – $101,383
New Orleans, LA – $84,419
Washington DC – $83,826
Denver, CO – $81,546

The top 5 states for paleontologist salaries are:

Texas – $139,870
Oklahoma – $118,110
Alaska – $101,580
Colorado – $100,300
California – $97,170

Position trends

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the employment numbers for geoscientists are projected to grow about 7% from 2020 to 2030, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.

Career path

There are several career paths a paleontologist can take, and the path you choose will depend on your education, experience, interests, and opportunities. You might go into academic research, fieldwork, or laboratory work. Some common careers include:

Professor
Research Specialist
Museum Curator
Museum Collections Manager
Palynologist
Park Ranger
Science Journalist
Environmental Specialist

Steps to becoming a paleontologist

1. Take math and science classes in high school

To be accepted into a good college or university, keep your grades up while in high school and take all the math and science classes you can. A high school transcript showing a strong background in these subjects will help you get into a good program.

2. Earn your bachelor’s degree

You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in geology, biology, or a related field to work as a paleontologist. Preferred classes you should take as an undergraduate include mineralogy, sedimentary petrology, invertebrate paleontology, ecology, invertebrate and vertebrate zoology, evolutionary biology, and genetics.

3. Take computer classes

As a paleontologist, you’ll need basic computer skills to conduct research and manage databases for fossil collection data.

4. Apply for internships

Hands-on experience is very important in your journey to becoming a paleontologist. Find intern opportunities to work in the field, in research, or as a lab technician. You can also look for summer camps and volunteer work. Here are a few sites where you can find internship opportunities:

5. Choose an area of study & take certifications

As an undergraduate, choose which sub-discipline of paleontology you want to pursue as a graduate student. Look at what courses are needed to apply for that specialty and make sure you take the right classes before applying to graduate school. For example, if you want to specialize in invertebrate paleontology, you’ll need to take biology, botany, environmental science, paleontology, and zoology courses as an undergrad. School guidance counselors can help you plan your course schedule to meet your needs.

Coursera’s paleontology courses

To learn a bit more about paleontology, Coursera has seven different courses to choose from, offered by top universities. Courses include Ancient Marine Animals, Dinosaur Paleobiology, Early Vertebrate Evolution, Theropod Dinosaurs and the Origin of Birds, Past, Present, and Future Extinctions, Emergence of Life, and Science and Religion 101.

Southwestern Adventist University Paleontology Preparator Training

This course is for anyone who is interested in paleontology. With five sessions, this certificate goes over the basic skills needed for paleontologists.

6. Earn your master’s degree

As most jobs in paleontology require a master’s degree, you’ll want to apply to graduate school after you’ve earned your bachelor’s degree. Search university websites for paleontology graduate programs. Many schools don’t have paleontology departments, but they offer master’s degrees in paleontology through other departments, such as integrative biology or geography.

7. Join a mentorship program

You can find a list of mentorship programs at the Geological Society of America, which include travel scholarships and grants and a luncheon for undergraduate and graduate students to meet faculty mentors. The Paleontological Society hosts a Mentors in Paleontology Career Luncheon for graduate and undergraduate students to talk to a panel of professionals about careers in paleontology.

8. Get a doctorate

If you are considering working as a professor at a university, you will need a doctorate in paleontology. You can either get your master’s degree first or enter a doctorate program after you receive your bachelor’s degree.

9. Find a job

There are many resources online to help you find a job in paleontology. Universities typically have job search resources that can help you land a job. You can also search Indeed, LinkedIn, or other job boards. The Paleontological Society and other paleontology sites have their own job boards that you can search.

Tips for becoming a paleontologist

If you’re interested in paleontology as a career, you’ll need to get a bachelor’s degree in biology, geology, or other relevant fields. Here are some other helpful tips:

Take advantage of any volunteer opportunities. If you live near a museum, you can volunteer there. If you live in a college town, you can volunteer in a lab. These are great opportunities to gain valuable experience sorting, cleaning, and even identifying fossil material. If you are fortunate enough to live near an excavation site, you can volunteer there.

Get fieldwork experience. This might be through a summer camp, such as Stones and Bones, through the University of Chicago. There are many opportunities to get outside and dig up fossils. The U.S. Forest Service has a program called Passport in Time (PIT) where you can sign up to be a volunteer in the field. You can find other opportunities in places like South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, Colorado, and Utah.

Read scientific journals and books on paleontology. Gain as much knowledge as you can. Some popular books to read include Vertebrate Paleontology by Michael Benton, The Dinosaur Heresies by Robert Bakker, and On the Origin of the Species by Charles Darwin.

Participate in science fairs. This is your chance to show your skills and develop new ones. Most science fairs are sponsored by local school districts, but you can also find larger fairs, such as Google’s online Science Fair. Winning, or even placing, in a major science fair can sometimes mean awards and scholarships for school.

Work hard on your math and science courses as these will lay the groundwork for your education.

Network as much as possible. Talk to college professors or other professionals in your area. Ideally, find those who are doing research that you’re interested in. Networking can lead to research projects, jobs, fieldwork opportunities, or a letter of recommendation when applying to school or for a job.

Join scientific societies, such as the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology. They generally have meetings in different locations during the year, and you can attend when they have one near you.

Apply for internships. This is a great way to gain hands-on experience. Check out opportunities through the Geological Society of America, the U.S. Forest Service, and many others. Internships can sometimes lead to paid positions.

Stay inspired. The road to becoming a paleontologist can be hard. Don’t lose the love and fascination of discovering new things and gaining new insights from a time long past.

Paleontologist FAQs

What skills are needed to become a paleontologist?

Aspiring individuals need a strong background in math and sciences. They must have excellent research skills and a good knowledge of collection and data analysis. They need strong observation skills, good verbal and written communication skills, and physical stamina.

What are the on-the-job requirements for paleontologists?

The minimum educational requirement is a bachelor’s degree in geology, biology, or a similar field. A master’s degree is highly recommended as most jobs require one. A Ph.D. is needed to teach at the university level. Hands-on experience is also vital, and you can gain that through internships, camps, or volunteer work. Knowledge of the tools and equipment used in the field and the lab, as well as how to collect, analyze, and preserve fossils is important. When working in the field, you need to adapt to different terrains and weather conditions.

How much do paleontologists make?

The average yearly income for a paleontologist is about $83,680 a year. Your earning potential will vary depending on where you live, your education, your experience, and which area of paleontology you work in.

What does the job market look like for paleontologists?

The job market is estimated to increase by 7% over the next 10 years. This is the same as the average for all occupations. The market can vary greatly depending on where you live.

How long does it take to become a paleontologist?

You will need a bachelor’s degree in geology, biology, or a related field. A bachelor’s degree typically takes 4 years to complete. Most paleontology jobs require a master’s degree, which typically takes 2 years to complete. A doctorate can take from 3 to 5 years. The total time can take anywhere from 6 to 10 years on average.

Do I need a college degree to become a paleontologist?

Yes, a bachelor’s degree is necessary to work as an entry-level paleontologist. However, most positions will require a master’s degree or a doctorate.

What are some top companies that hire a paleontologist?

Most paleontologists are college or university professors. Others are research specialists who do field work followed by lab analysis. Some paleontologists work for museums in the role of curator or research and collections manager. Still, others work for oil companies where they locate oil reserves.

How do I create a resume for a paleontologist?

When writing a resume for a paleontologist position, highlight the aspects of your experience that match the job post and the potential employer’s interest. Some important things to include in your paleontologist resume include:

● Field experience – List any hands-on experience you have, including internships, volunteer work, summer camps, or a previous position.
● Education – List all the degrees you’ve earned, as well as any awards, your GPA (especially if it’s high), and any relevant associations or clubs you belonged to at school. Include courses you’ve taken and research projects you’ve worked on, especially those that relate to the position. Also, highlight internships that may be in line with the position.
● Your skills – List all the skills you have and put the skills your potential employer is looking for at the top of the list. This is where you can highlight your qualifications for the position. Some examples of your skills might be, fossil collection, tagging or analysis, critical thinking, technologies and tools you’re familiar with, knowledge of various prehistoric animals or plants, observation skills, and laboratory protocols.

How do I find a paleontologist job?

You can search job boards, social media sites, and company websites. You can also look for career opportunities and assistance on how to find jobs on paleontology association sites. You can also talk to career counselors at your college or university.

What should I expect in an interview?

Some typical interview questions you’ll answer include:

● What are some of the most important skills for a paleontologist?
● What is your favorite dinosaur and why?
● What is your greatest accomplishment as a paleontologist so far?
● How do you keep up-to-date on your knowledge of paleontology?
● How often do you publish your research?
● How would you handle a disagreement in the team about how to interpret a discovery?

What associations exist for paleontologists?

Here are some of the top national associations:

● American Geophysical Union
● Association for Materials and Methods in Paleontology
● Association for Women Geoscientists
● Geological Society of America
● The Paleontological Association
● National Association of Geoscience Teachers
● The Paleontological Society
● Association of Applied Paleontological Sciences
● Society of Vertebrate Paleontology
● The Society for Preservation of Natural History Collections
● The Palynological Society
● International Palaeoentomological Society
● Southwest Paleontological Society
● Western Interior Paleontological Society

Many of these associations have local chapters. You can check if a chapter is near you. You can also find state and local associations, as well as those at many universities and colleges.

Do paleontologists receive insurance?

Paleontologists typically get insurance through their employer, whether that is the government, an educational institution, or a private company.

Do paleontologists require continuing education?

Paleontologists have limited opportunities with a bachelor’s degree. If you want to advance your career as a paleontologist, you will most likely need to earn either a master’s degree, a doctorate, or both. If you want to teach at the university level, you will need a doctorate. Beyond your formal education, there are no continuing education requirements for paleontologists.

Do paleontologists require business licenses?

No, a business license is not required to work as a paleontologist.

What other resources can help me become a paleontologist?

Some helpful resources for aspiring paleontologists include:

● Earth@Home
● Digital Atlas of Ancient Life
● myFOSSIL
● Time Scavengers
● Trowelblazers
● Understanding Evolution
● ACCESS Paleo
● Palaeocast
● Dinosaur Facts
● The Dino Directory
● The Paleontology Database
● The Smithsonian Institution Libraries

Here is a list of some additional resources where you can find internship and fellowship opportunities for paleontology:

● The Paleontology Portal
● National Fossil Day
● Bureau of Labor Statistics: Geoscientists
● Society of Vertebrate Paleontology

The following is a list of the top dinosaur museums in the U.S.:

● The Field Museum
● Wyoming Dinosaur Center
● American Museum of Natural History
● Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History