About the Company
The University of North Dakota (UND) is a public research university in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Established in 1883, UND is the state’s oldest and second-largest university, renowned for its strong programs in engineering, aviation, law, medicine, and the sciences. The Earth System Science & Policy department at UND is actively engaged in groundbreaking geological and paleontological research, leading field expeditions to uncover and study ancient life forms and geological processes that shaped our planet. We are committed to advancing scientific knowledge and providing unique hands-on learning experiences.
Job Description
Join the University of North Dakota’s field research team as a Seasonal Fossil Prospector! This is an exceptional opportunity for individuals passionate about paleontology, geology, and outdoor exploration. You will be an integral part of our expedition to discover, excavate, and document significant fossil finds across North Dakota’s rich geological landscapes. This physically demanding role involves extensive outdoor work in varied terrain and weather conditions, contributing directly to scientific discovery and our understanding of prehistoric life. A travel stipend is provided to support your participation in this vital research.
Key Responsibilities
- Participate in daily field surveys across designated geological formations to locate fossil-bearing sites.
- Assist with the careful excavation, collection, and initial preparation of fossil specimens under supervision.
- Accurately record and document field data, including GPS coordinates, geological context, and photographic evidence.
- Aid in mapping and sampling geological strata relevant to fossil discoveries.
- Follow strict safety protocols and ethical guidelines for fieldwork and specimen preservation.
- Contribute to camp setup, maintenance, and logistics in remote field locations.
- Collaborate effectively with team members and supervisors to achieve expedition goals.
Required Skills
- Excellent physical stamina and ability to work long hours outdoors in various weather conditions (heat, cold, wind, rain).
- Strong observational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to hike and traverse rugged, uneven terrain with equipment.
- Basic understanding of geological principles or a strong willingness to learn.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Commitment to safety protocols and environmental stewardship.
- Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
Preferred Qualifications
- Enrollment in or completion of a Bachelor's degree program in Geology, Paleontology, Biology, Archaeology, or a related field.
- Previous experience with outdoor fieldwork, hiking, or camping.
- Experience using GPS and basic mapping tools.
- First Aid/CPR certification.
Perks & Benefits
- Generous travel stipend to cover expedition-related travel costs.
- Opportunity to gain hands-on experience in world-class paleontological fieldwork.
- Exposure to cutting-edge scientific research and data collection techniques.
- Mentorship from experienced paleontologists and geologists.
- Housing and meals provided during field expeditions.
- Contribution to significant scientific discoveries.
- Networking opportunities within the scientific community.
How to Apply
If you are interested in this position, please click the "Apply Now" button below. To ensure your application is properly considered, please prepare the following:
- An up-to-date Resume or CV
- A brief cover letter summarizing your experience and motivation
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Welcome to Westford Trust. We publish job opportunities aggregated from public sources, employers, and job portals. We never charge any fees to access or use our website; all information is provided entirely for free.
Westford Trust does not directly offer or manage these positions, nor are we directly involved in the hiring process for the vacancies published on https://jobs.westfordtrust.com.
If you suspect a fraudulent listing or have any questions, please contact us at techturna@gmail.com.