Paleobotanists study plant fossils to discover how ancient societies lived.
Paleobotanists study fossil plants and the remnants of fossil plants found in rocks and sediments. Through their detective work, they help society unlock the secrets of the past. Paleobotanists can specialize in the study of the origin and evolution of plants or in the study of ancient environments. Paleobotanists are also called systematists, anatomists and morphologists, says Bruce Tiffany, a geological sciences professor at the University of California.
Career Overview
The career opportunities for paleobotanists are good, with the field projected to expand by 15-1/2 percent in the decade between 2008 and 2018. Paleobotanists work in a variety of industries, including oil, gas and coal, education, and museums and national parks. Some paleobotanists work as self-employed consultants. The field of academia is one of the most competitive for paleobotanist and includes teaching, public service, administrative and museum responsibilities. Some positions require paleobotanists to write journal articles or to serve as mentors or on various committees. The amount of field time required varies according to position and industry. Paleobotanists who work in the field need the physical strength and endurance necessary to move and carry heavy specimens and to cross rugged terrains.
Average Salary
The average salary in 2011 for paleobotanists working in the U.S. is $64,110, which equates to $30.82 per hour. The average salary for paleobotanists differs by location, according to ERI Economic Research Institute's Salary Expert calculator. Paleobotanists living in Texas tend to earn the highest salaries. In Houston, the average salary of a paleobotanist is $121,649. In Dallas, the average salary is $96,839. Paleobotanists living in Indianapolis, Orlando, Florida, Phoenix, Charlotte and Atlanta earn between $51,000 and $60,000 on average. In New York, Chicago and Miami, the average pay is between $60,000 and $62,000 annually.
Entry Salary
The entry-level salary for paleobotanists is generally represented in the lowest 10 percent of the pay scale. In Nebraska, the entry rate is $13.46 an hour or $27,990 annually. In Vermont, the beginning salary is considerably higher at $23.84 an hour and $49,580 annually.
Top Salary
The pay scale for paleobotanists can exceed six figures, according to Salary Box. In North Carolina, the average pay rate in the top 10 percent of earners is $107,750 or $51.80 per hour, and in Pennsylvania, it is $102,660. Maryland is one of the highest paying states for paleobotanists with an average salary of $142,090. In other states, the top 10 percent earn between $70,000 and $110,000.
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