Paleontology Field Volunteer

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The Natural History Museum of Utah is the state repository for paleontological specimens discovered in Utah. We need volunteers to help paleontolgists in the discovery and excavation of fossil finds, making an enormous contribution to the further study of Utah's past worlds. As a Paleontology Field Work volunteer, you will be able to play a part in the scientific discovery process by prospecting sides of rugged mountains, excavating overburden rock, and using tools to exacavate the fossil specimens. You'll gain valuable experience working with excavation tools and with delicate specimens, and get specialized training to learn how to extract fossils.

Paleontology Field Work volunteers will use techniques learned in training classes to prospect for fossils, record fossil finds, and excavate the fossils. These techniques include picking, shoveling and jack hammering. Field work involves considerable detailed work using tools like sledge hammers, chisels, needles and brushes. Fossil speciments also require lots of protection to transport safely in individaul backpacks or collectively on backboards or car hoods. Days tend to be long and physcially demanding often times in adverse weather conditions ranging from cold snaps to heat waves. There is limited exposure to dust and to chemicals used in consolidants and adhesives during preparation. Training and safety gear are provided.

To read more about this opportunity, and to apply, visit our website at nhmu.utah.edu/volunteers.