how do you find a job in paleontology?

Question

i need to know where to find the job and how to go about getting it. like who do i have to talk to, do i need like a teachers recomendation, things like that

Answer 1

Former paleontologist (now teacher) here;

I would suggest that you begin making contacts, either through a local university or museum (or some public parks) by volunteering in the geology/paleontology department (or possibly even the biology department). This obviously depends on where you live, so I cannot be more speciffic.

Though some schools offer a "Paleontology" degree, most paleontologists I know went the biology (like me) or geology route (and this will give you broader career choice). In any case you will need to go on to at LEAST a masters program; a thesis masters, where you will work with a mentor exclusively on your own (or part of their) project. This usually takes a few years, and that is BEFORE getting your doctorate (THEN a post-doc position, then...)

I will also point out (not to dissuade, but to inform) that MOST work is not the cool "fieldwork" you see on PBS specials. Most is spent making tedious measurements, reading other journals, defending your conclusions and typing your own reports; you will get few weeks, if any, in the field each year - many grads work on specimens others bring back (this is where good contacts come in handy as there is limited space on most expeditions)

It is a lot of work, lot of hours (it is not usually just 9-5), and the pay is, at best, mediocre, but it is also fun, interesting work, and very casual, you can usually wear jeans (or shorts) to work. Further; it can be quite exhilarating to be the first on your block to discover a new species!

Good luck!

Answer 2

You need at least a masters degree in paleontology. There is very little demand for paleontologists except for a few universities and some museums. The US Park Service has some openings during summer months at various locations around the country. If you had the background to hold such a position, you would know how to find the very few jobs that are around.

Answer 3

you need a bachelors degree in paleontology to start as a journor reseacher.
They you would work on your masters degree. If you read the articles written by paleontologists you will find most
of the research done on sites are by master and PHD's in at field. They write to get funding.

Most large univeristies offer couses in paleontology, one semsiter you will need to work (unpaid, you pay for the class credits) with an instructor on a field investition.

Answer 4

Aside of the fact that you need a college degree, check with National or big University museums!

Answer 5

You need a college degree, most likely, if you want to do research - very few people get into it without one. Besides, you want to learn the background. Most working palentologists have a phd.

Answer 6

Are you in high school, or college?

Answer 7

you don't: It finds you.....eventually.