Paleontologists distinguish between rock and bone in geological digs.
Paleontologists make their home in both the sterile environment of the laboratory and the dusty ground of geological digs. When the skeleton or fossilized remains of an ancient creature are unearthed, it is a paleontologist who monitors the dig site and prevents damage to the remains. Paleontologists are paid a salary and typically do not work independently.
Starting Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the bottom 10 percent of geoscientists in 2008 made $41,700 or less. Starting salaries typically comprise the lowest salaries in the industry. The middle 50 percent of paleontologists, however, made between $54,000 and $114,000 in 2008. The salary for paleontologists varies depending on the type of field work or positions they hold in research settings. For example, research assistants in laboratories make less than lead technicians studying fossil specimens.
Required Education
Paleontologists typically obtain a postgraduate degree in paleontology after obtaining a bachelor's degree in biology or geology. Because of the specificity and resources needed for the study of paleontology, not all universities offer a paleontology degree path. During their coursework in college, prospective paleontologists may apprentice or intern with faculty at the university or outside research institutions for additional experience. Candidates should consider a doctorate degree in paleontology if they want to earn a relatively high salary during their career.
Typical Duties
Paleontologists locate, identify, excavate and research fossil remains in rock formations around the world. Paleontologists may focus on plant fossils, animal fossils or both, depending on their expertise. Once the fossils are located, paleontologists develop the plan of action for carefully removing the specimens and transporting them to research institutions. The expertise of paleontologists may also be used by organizations searching for petroleum resources. Paleontologists develop models of fossilized areas inside of geological formations to pinpoint where petroleum might be located.
Major Employers
Paleontologists are employed by both the public and private sectors. The United States government uses paleontologists for geological mapping in development projects and preservation programs around the country. Museums and universities hire paleontologists to locate and identify fossilized remains for exhibits and additional research. For example, a paleontologist might supervise the construction of a fossilized skeleton for display. Universities hire paleontologists as professors for paleontology and geology courses in the school.
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