Principal Paleontologist

EC Source Services, LLC

. Serve as EEG's leading expert in paleontological compliance, permitting and regulatory strategy .

Posted 11/5/2026full-timeRemote • Arizona • United StatesLeadWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in paleontological compliance, permitting, and regulatory strategy, with a strong focus on project management, mentoring, and stakeholder engagement. Proficient in conducting paleontological investigations and ensuring adherence to federal and state regulations.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Advanced Degree In Paleontology7+ Years Of Paleontological InvestigationsField Director Or Principal Investigator EligibilityKnowledge Of Federal RegulationsTechnical Report Writing Experience

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Paleontological Resource SurveysFossil IdentificationLaboratory PreparationData Collection And AnalysisQuality Assurance And Quality ControlEnvironmental Documentation ReviewPermit Application ReviewField Crew SupervisionProject Execution ManagementMitigation Measures Formulation

Soft Skills

Mentoring Technical ProfessionalsExceptional Written CommunicationVerbal Communication SkillsPresentation SkillsFacilitation Skills

Certifications & Qualifications

Valid Driver's License

Industry Keywords

Paleontological ComplianceRegulatory StrategyNational Environmental Policy ActPaleontological Resources Protection ActCalifornia Environmental Quality ActEnvironmental PlanningStakeholder EngagementProject Risk ReductionField InvestigationsWestern United States Experience

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Serve as EEG's leading expert in paleontological compliance, permitting and regulatory strategy
Lead planning efforts on large electric transmission, renewable energy and infrastructure projects throughout the United States
Develop permitting strategies that reduce project risk while supporting engineering, construction and client objectives
Advise executive leadership, project managers and clients on complex environmental planning and regulatory issues
Lead agency coordination efforts involving federal, state, Tribal and local regulatory agencies
Mentor Paleontologist I, II and III personnel
Establish company standards, technical guidance documents, quality assurance procedures and training programs
Support proposals, client interviews, executive presentations and strategic business development initiatives
Evaluate emerging paleontological compliance regulations and recommend improvements
Direct day-to-day work of office/program personnel and manage workflow
Lead staffing, recruitment and retention efforts
Oversee project execution, timelines, budgets and regulatory standards
Review technical reports and ensure quality assurance and quality control
Lead paleontology studies and coordinate local, regional and nationwide team members conducting field and desktop research
Interface with clients, agencies and external stakeholders
Oversee field investigations, data collection, analysis and interpretation
Formulate management recommendations and mitigation measures
Oversee proposal and budget preparation

Requirements

What you’ll need

Advanced degree (M.A. or Ph.D.) in paleontology, geology, geobiology or a closely related field
7+ years of professional experience conducting paleontological investigations in one or more states in the western United States
3+ years of experience conducting paleontological resource surveys, identifying fossils in the field, fossil collection, and laboratory preparation
2+ years of experience with analysis and technical report writing
2+ years of experience supervising field crews during field studies
Ability to be listed as Field Director or Principal Investigator on federal paleontological use permits
Knowledge of federal regulations pertaining to paleontological resources, and state-specific knowledge/experience in one or more states in the western United States
Willingness to travel and conduct fieldwork in often remote locations and in rough terrain and/or challenging weather
Experience reviewing technical reports, permit applications, environmental documentation and regulatory deliverables
Demonstrated ability to mentor technical professionals while strengthening organizational knowledge
Exceptional written, verbal, presentation and facilitation skills
Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record
Preferred: 10+ years of professional experience conducting paleontological investigations in one or more states in the western United States
Preferred: Working knowledge of the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act, Paleontological Resources Protection Act, and/or the California Environmental Quality Act
Preferred: Active member of the professional community
Preferred: Ability to work both independently and in a team environment
Preferred: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with technical and non-technical stakeholders

Benefits

Comp & perks

Inclusive and welcoming culture
Training, tools, and opportunities for professional growth
Equal opportunity to advance
Professional development and mentorship opportunities