What Does a Paleontologist Do: Responsibilities, Requirements, and Salary for 2026

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With only about 1,034 professional paleontologists in the entire U.S., the path to this career can feel as mysterious as the fossils themselves. Many aspiring scientists dream of unearthing the next T-Rex but worry about the reality of finding a job, earning a good living, and what the work actually involves day-to-day. It’s a classic case of passion meeting practicality.

To bridge that gap, our team of career planning experts, with over a decade of experience, has created this comprehensive guide. We'll walk you through a paleontologist's real responsibilities, the salary you can expect, and the exact educational steps you need to take to turn your passion into a profession.

Key Things You Should Know About What a Paleontologist Does

The average salary for a paleontologist in the U.S. is approximately $79,193 per year.
It is a highly specialized and small field, with only about 1,034 professional paleontologists working in the country.
A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is the standard educational requirement for most independent research and university positions.
The work is not just fieldwork; it is a balance of excavating fossils, analyzing them in a lab, and academic duties like teaching and writing.
Success in the field requires a strong foundation in geology and biology, as well as excellent data analysis and writing skills.

What is a paleontologist?

A paleontologist is a scientist who studies the history of life on Earth by examining the fossil record. This record includes not just bones but also fossilized shells, plants, pollen, footprints, and even microscopic life forms. Their goal is to piece together the story of evolution and understand how ancient ecosystems functioned.

While dinosaurs are the most famous part of the job, they are only one piece of a much larger puzzle.

More Than Just Dinosaurs

The field of paleontology is incredibly diverse. Some scientists specialize in paleobotany, studying ancient plant life to reconstruct past environments. Others are micropaleontologists, who analyze tiny fossils of organisms like plankton to help locate oil reserves.

There are also invertebrate paleontologists who focus on animals without backbones, like trilobites and ammonites, which tell us crucial information about ancient oceans. This breadth is what makes the field so scientifically important.

What does a paleontologist do during fieldwork?

When a paleontologist is out in the field, their work is systematic and incredibly precise. It starts with prospecting, which means using geological maps and surveys to identify rock layers of the right age that are likely to contain fossils. Once a promising site is found, the real work begins.

The excavation process is slow and patient. Scientists use a combination of large tools like shovels and pickaxes to remove overlying rock, and small tools like dental picks and brushes to carefully expose the delicate fossils. Every discovery is meticulously documented, with its exact location mapped on a grid of the site. Finally, fragile bones are stabilized and wrapped in a plaster jacket—much like a medical cast—for safe transport back to the lab.

The Reality of Life on a Dig

Now, it’s important to understand that fieldwork isn't a year-round adventure. It's often seasonal, taking place for a few weeks or months in the summer, and it can be physically demanding. Digs are frequently in remote, rugged locations with extreme weather, from blistering heat to biting wind.

Success requires physical stamina and a deep, practical understanding of the land. In fact, even skills from fields you might not expect, like those taught in landscaping technology certification courses online, can be surprisingly useful for reading topography and soil layers. It's a challenging environment, but for those who love the outdoors and the thrill of discovery, it's an incredibly rewarding experience.

What work happens in a paleontology lab?

Once a fossil is safely jacketed and brought back from the field, its journey is really just beginning. The lab is where the bulk of the scientific discovery happens.

The first and often longest step is fossil preparation. A highly skilled technician, called a preparator, meticulously works to remove the surrounding rock matrix from the fossil. This is incredibly detailed work done under a microscope with tools like dental picks and tiny air-powered scribes.

Once the fossil is cleaned, modern technology takes over. Scientists use CT scanners to see inside the bones without damaging them, and 3D modeling to reconstruct skeletons digitally. Finally, the crucial work of comparative anatomy begins, where the paleontologist compares the fossil to the skeletons of known species to identify it and understand its place in the evolutionary tree.

Where Data Replaces Dust

It’s important to understand that the lab, not the field, is where raw fossils are turned into scientific data. This is where hypotheses are tested and new insights are generated.

Far from being a dusty storage room, the modern paleontology lab is a high-tech space. Technology is constantly evolving, allowing researchers to analyze fossil chemistry, reconstruct muscle attachments, and model biomechanics in ways that were impossible a generation ago. This is where the real story of an ancient animal's life is revealed.

What are a paleontologist's other professional duties?

The work of a professional paleontologist extends far beyond fossils. For most, especially those in academia, their time is divided among several key professional duties.

Think of it as running a small business centered on your research. Here are the core responsibilities that aren't fieldwork or lab work:

Securing Funding: Paleontology research is expensive, so a huge part of the job is writing and submitting grant proposals to organizations like the National Science Foundation to fund expeditions, lab equipment, and student researchers.
Publishing Research: To advance science, discoveries must be shared. This means writing detailed scientific papers, submitting them to peer-reviewed journals, and often revising them based on feedback.
Educating Others: Most paleontologists at universities teach undergraduate and graduate courses in geology or biology. They also serve as mentors for students, guiding their research projects.
Managing Collections: In a museum setting, paleontologists act as curators, which means they are responsible for the care, storage, and study of the institution's fossil collections.
Public Outreach: Sharing the excitement of discovery with the public through talks, museum exhibits, and media interviews is another important part of the job.

The 'Publish or Perish' Reality

It's important to be realistic about these duties. They aren't just side tasks; for many academic paleontologists, they are the core of the job. The pressure to secure funding and publish research is intense.

This is why success in the field depends just as much on being a great writer and communicator as it does on being a great scientist. These professional responsibilities are what keep the engine of discovery running.

What is the job outlook for paleontologists?

Paleontology is a small and highly competitive field. It's crucial to go into it with a clear understanding of the job market.

To put it in perspective, as of the most recent data on the discipline, there were only about 1,034 professional paleontologists in the entire United States. Job growth in the field tends to be slow, with most positions becoming available when a professor or curator retires. This creates a very competitive environment for anyone trying to enter the profession.

Navigating the 'Dinosaur Tax'

In the world of career planning, there's an informal idea known as the "Dinosaur Tax." It refers to the fact that because paleontology is so fascinating and popular, it attracts a very large number of passionate and talented applicants for an extremely small number of available jobs.

This doesn't mean you shouldn't pursue it, but it does mean that passion alone isn't enough. Success requires a combination of top academic performance, strong research experience, and a strategic plan. The jobs are out there, primarily at universities and major museums, but the competition to land one is fierce. Being aware of this challenge is the first step to successfully navigating it.

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How much can you earn as a paleontologist?

According to data from Payscale for 2026, the average annual base salary for a paleontologist in the U.S. is $79,193. Now, that's an average, so your actual salary will depend on where you are in your career.

Entry-level positions, like a postdoctoral fellowship right after you earn your Ph.D., will typically be on the lower end of the scale. On the other hand, a senior, tenured professor at a major research university or a head curator at a large natural history museum can earn a salary well into the six figures.

Factors That Influence Salary

Several key factors will influence your earning potential. Your salary can vary quite a bit depending on your employer—a role at a state university, a federal agency, or in the private energy sector will have different pay scales. Geographic location and your level of experience and professional reputation also play a significant role.

It's also important to clear up a common myth about getting rich from selling fossils. Scientifically important specimens are part of the public trust and are not for commercial sale; there are complex legal and ethical rules that govern the collection and ownership of fossils.

What skills do you need to succeed in paleontology?

Beyond a passion for the past, success in this field requires a unique and demanding set of skills. It’s a great idea to start building them now.

Think of your skills as a toolkit. You'll need both the scientific instruments and the practical tools to get the job done.

Hard Skills

Fieldwork and Excavation Techniques: This involves the technical proficiency in locating sites using geological maps and GIS/GPS, safely excavating delicate fossils with specialized tools (like picks, brushes, and consolidants), and creating detailed, accurate field notes and documentation.
Geology and Stratigraphy: A deep, functional understanding of historical geology, stratigraphy (the study of rock layers), and sedimentology. This skill is crucial for dating fossils, interpreting the ancient environment, and understanding the geological context of a find.
Comparative Anatomy and Taxonomy: The specialized ability to analyze fossil morphology (structure), identify and classify ancient species (taxonomy and systematics), and compare them to both extinct and modern life to trace evolutionary relationships.
Data Analysis and Statistics (e.g., R/Python): Proficiency in using statistical software (like R or Python) to manage, analyze, and interpret large datasets of fossil measurements, evolutionary patterns, and ecological data for rigorous scientific conclusions.
Fossil Preparation and Conservation: The hands-on technical skill of cleaning, repairing, stabilizing, and preserving fragile fossil specimens for study and display, often using specialized chemicals, glues, and lab tools.

Soft Skills

These are just as important. The work requires immense patience and meticulous attention to detail. Crucially, you must be a strong writer to publish papers and secure grants, and a clear communicator to teach and share your work with the public. Fieldwork can also be physically tough, and a deep understanding of anatomy is critical.

Analytical Thinking: Paleontologists must interpret fossil evidence and geological data to form logical, evidence-based conclusions about ancient life and environments.
Attention to Detail: Precise observation is essential when identifying subtle features in fossils, recording data, or conducting excavations.
Communication Skills: Clear writing and presentation abilities help convey findings to both scientific audiences and the public.
Collaboration: Fieldwork and research often involve teamwork with geologists, biologists, and museum staff, requiring strong interpersonal skills.
Problem-Solving: Unexpected challenges in field conditions or data interpretation demand adaptability and creative approaches to research questions.

It might sound surprising, but the kind of biomechanical knowledge you'd get from a program like an online exercise science degree military personnel sometimes pursue is incredibly valuable for interpreting how these ancient animals moved and for handling the physical demands of a dig.

Foundational Knowledge: What to Major In

So, how do you start building these skills? It begins with your undergraduate major. As you might expect, a background in the earth sciences is the most common path; data shows that 46% of paleontologists majored in geology.

However, a variety of backgrounds can lead to this career. Having skills in computer science for data modeling or even fine arts for scientific illustration can make you a much stronger candidate.

The chart below shows the most common majors for professionals in the field.

What education is required to become a paleontologist?

This is a key question, as the educational path to becoming a paleontologist is a long-term commitment. Let's lay out the roadmap so you know exactly what to expect.

The standard academic path is a marathon, not a sprint. It typically begins with a four-year Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. Most aspiring paleontologists major in either geology or biology to build their foundational knowledge. A strong foundation in earth systems is critical, which is why many successful professionals build their skills with one of the best online geography degree programs.

After your bachelor's, the next step is graduate school. This usually involves earning a Master of Science (M.S.) degree, followed by the final and most important step for a research career: a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). For nearly all independent research and university positions, a Ph.D. is the non-negotiable final step to becoming a professional paleontologist.

Understanding Degree Requirements

It's helpful to think of each degree as a key that unlocks a different level of career. A bachelor's degree provides you with the fundamental knowledge. A master's degree can qualify you for some technical or educational roles, such as a fossil preparator or a collections manager in a museum.

However, the Ph.D. is what qualifies you to be a principal investigator—the person who leads research projects, applies for grants, and holds a professorship at a university. While this path is demanding, it's important to remember that many vital roles support the field.

The chart below illustrates the common degree levels you'll find among people working in paleontology.

Where do paleontologists work?

The answer is more varied than most people think. While the classic image is a professor in a university office, paleontologists work in a few different key sectors.

The majority of paleontologists are employed in academic and museum settings.

Universities and Colleges: Most paleontologists are professors, typically in geology or biology departments. In these roles, they balance their time between conducting original research and teaching courses to undergraduate and graduate students.
Museums: Natural history museums are another major employer. Paleontologists here work as curators, managing the museum's fossil collections, conducting research, and designing public exhibits. Other museum roles include collections managers and fossil preparators.
Government Agencies: Paleontologists also work for federal and state agencies. This includes state geological surveys, which map a state's resources, and federal bodies like the National Park Service or the Bureau of Land Management, which manage fossils found on public lands.

Opportunities in Private Industry

While less common, there are important career paths in the private sector. The energy industry, for example, employs micropaleontologists to study microscopic fossils from core samples. This data helps them identify underground rock formations that are likely to contain oil and gas.

This intersection of geology and energy creates unique opportunities. A paleontologist who also understands the broader context of resource management, perhaps through a specialized credential like an energy policy degree online, would be exceptionally well-positioned for these kinds of industry roles.

What are the different specializations in paleontology?

Thinking about a specialization is a great way to start focusing your passion. While "paleontologist" is the broad title, the field is actually made up of many different sub-disciplines, each focused on a different part of the ancient world.

Here are some of the main specializations you could pursue:

Vertebrate Paleontology: This is the most well-known branch. It focuses on animals with backbones, including dinosaurs, ancient mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
Invertebrate Paleontology: This is the study of animals without backbones. This includes incredibly common and important fossils like trilobites, ammonites, and ancient corals that tell us about the health of past oceans.
Paleobotany: Paleobotanists study fossil plants, from microscopic pollen to entire fossilized forests. Their work is essential for reconstructing ancient landscapes and climates.
Micropaleontology: This specialization focuses on microscopic fossils, such as foraminifera and diatoms. These tiny fossils are extremely useful for dating rock layers and are vital in the energy industry.
Paleoecology: A paleoecologist is like an ancient ecosystem detective. They use all types of fossils—plants, animals, and trace fossils like footprints—to understand how ancient organisms interacted with each other and their environment.

Choosing Your Path

Your specialization journey usually begins in graduate school, where you'll choose a research project and an advisor who is an expert in that area.

No matter which path you choose, the best way to prepare is by building a broad and solid foundation in all sciences. Pursuing one of the best online natural sciences degree programs can give you the versatile and comprehensive toolkit you'll need to succeed in any of these exciting specializations.

How do you get started on the path to becoming a paleontologist?

The best way to begin your journey is by gaining hands-on experience and building a strong academic foundation, no matter your age or current career.

For Students in High School or Undergrad:

Your main goal is to build a strong resume for graduate school applications.

Take the Right Classes: Load up on advanced courses in biology, geology, chemistry, and physics.
Volunteer: Spend time at a local natural history museum. You can start as a docent explaining exhibits to the public and potentially work your way into assisting in the collections or lab.
Join a Club: Get involved in your school's science club or a local rock and mineral society.
Find Field Experience: Look for opportunities to join summer field camps run by universities or museums. This is the best way to see if you enjoy the realities of fieldwork.

For Career-Changers or Adult Learners:

Your goal is to explore your passion and see if this is the right fit before committing to a degree program.

Join an Amateur Society: Find a local or regional amateur paleontology or fossil hunting club. These groups are full of knowledgeable people and often organize digs.
Volunteer at a Museum: Offer your time in the collections, helping to organize specimens, or in the lab, where you might be trained in fossil preparation.
Test the Waters with Coursework: Before enrolling in a full degree program, take a few online or community college courses in geology or biology to refresh your knowledge and confirm your interest.

The Power of Community

For anyone starting out, the single best thing you can do is connect with people in the field. The paleontology community, including both professionals and dedicated amateurs, is incredibly welcoming. By getting involved, you'll not only gain invaluable experience but also find the mentors who can guide you on your path to becoming a paleontologist.

Here's What Paleontologists Have to Say About Their Careers

Alice: "The factual thrill of uncovering a new fossil species—something literally unseen for millions of years—is indescribable, and it’s documented every time in a peer-reviewed paper. Knowing that my work directly contributes to the global scientific record on evolution and ancient climate change fills me with a deep sense of purpose and intellectual wonder."

Theodore: "Fieldwork is physically demanding, involving rigorous hiking and excavation in remote locations, but the freedom and awe I feel working under vast, ancient skies are unmatched. I especially appreciate the high level of intellectual collaboration, frequently working with specialists from different scientific disciplines to piece together Earth's history."

Ewan: "While the job market can be competitive, specializing in micropaleontology means I contribute essential, quantifiable data on ancient environments to industries like energy and conservation. Using advanced laboratory tools to unlock the mysteries hidden in tiny rock samples gives me an immense, almost childlike satisfaction every day."

Key Findings

Paleontologists study fossils to understand ancient life forms, evolution, and environmental changes over millions of years.
Common responsibilities include excavating fossil sites, analyzing specimens in laboratories, and publishing research findings.
Most paleontologists hold at least a master’s degree in geology, earth science, or paleontology, though research and academic positions often require a Ph.D.
Certification isn’t mandatory but joining professional organizations like the Paleontological Society enhances credibility and networking.
The average salary for paleontologists in the U.S. ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education level, and work setting.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Paleontologist

Do paleontologists need to be proficient in GIS mapping and computer modeling?

Yes, modern paleontologists often need proficiency in GIS mapping and computer modeling to analyze fossil distribution, reconstruct ancient environments, and visualize evolutionary patterns. GIS helps map excavation sites and geological layers accurately, while computer modeling allows researchers to simulate biological structures or ancient ecosystems. These digital skills enhance data accuracy, research efficiency, and collaboration with geologists and climate scientists.

What work do paleontologists perform for the oil and gas industry or environmental firms?

Paleontologists working in the oil and gas industry use microfossils and sediment data to help locate and date potential drilling sites, guiding exploration teams toward resource-rich geological formations. In environmental firms, they analyze fossil records to assess past climate changes and ecosystem shifts, providing insights for modern conservation and land-use planning. Their expertise helps industries make data-driven decisions while ensuring compliance with environmental and preservation regulations.

Can amateur fossil hunting contribute to your professional career experience?

Yes, amateur fossil hunting can serve as valuable hands-on experience for aspiring paleontologists. It helps develop essential field skills such as fossil identification, excavation techniques, and geological observation. When documented and conducted ethically, these experiences can strengthen graduate school applications or resumes by demonstrating genuine passion and practical knowledge of paleontology.

What are the most exciting research areas and new discoveries in paleontology today?

Some of the most exciting research areas in paleontology today include the study of soft-tissue preservation, which is revealing new insights into dinosaur colors, muscles, and behavior. Advances in ancient DNA and molecular analysis are also reshaping our understanding of evolution and species relationships. Additionally, discoveries of new fossils in previously unexplored regions, such as Antarctica and Southeast Asia, are expanding knowledge of prehistoric ecosystems and biodiversity.

References

Prospects.ac.uk. (n.d.). Palaeontologist job profile. Retrieved November 5, 2025, from https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/palaeontologist
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, August 28). Geoscientists. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved November 5, 2025, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/geoscientists.htm
Sam Noble Museum. (n.d.). What do paleontologists do? The University of Oklahoma. Retrieved November 5, 2025, from https://samnoblemuseum.ou.edu/understanding-the-past/what-do-paleontologists-do/
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. (n.d.). Frequently Asked Questions. Department of Paleobiology. Retrieved November 5, 2025, from https://paleobiology.si.edu/about/faq.html
Maidment, S. (n.d.). How to become a palaeontologist. Natural History Museum. Retrieved November 5, 2025, from https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/how-to-become-a-palaeontologist.html