Description

Museum of the Rockies (MOR) located in Boeman, Montana, is looking for an experienced Paleontology Preparator-Conservator to assist with the preparation and conservation of several dinosaur specimens identified as signature specimens for exhibition in a new building expansion and/or scientific research. Read the full job description and apply.

Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans / Disabled
$22- $26 hourly, commensurate with experience, education, and qualifications + benefits.

Requirements

The Paleontology Preparator-Conservator will be able to confidently prepare complex vertebrate specimens using and understanding best practices and techniques while following appropriate safety protocol, and will participate as a member of Museum of the Rockies team of paleontology professionals.

Responsibilities of this position include:

• Preparing and conserving fossil specimens.
• Constructing archival cradles.
• Molding and casting fossil specimens.
• Painting fossil casts.
• Tracking data associated with specimens.
• 3D scanning and printing.
• Assisting the Paleontology Lab Manager with training & supervising student volunteers.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in Earth Sciences, Geology, Paleontology, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Demonstrated experience with vertebrate fossil preparation including operation and maintenance of pneumatic preparation tools.
• Understanding correct and safe handling of fossil specimens.
• Demonstrated experience with molding and casting of complex fossil specimens.Demonstrated experience creating archival cradles.
• Knowledge of paleontological conservation materials, techniques, and best practices.
• Knowledge of lab-related safety protocols and appropriate use of Personal Protective Equipment.

Preferred Qualifications

• At least 3 years of fossil preparation experience including the preparation of dinosaurs or other large vertebrates.
• Experience independently managing timing and deadlines of long-term projects.
• Experience with 3D scanning, processing, and printing
• Experience with acid preparation.
• Experience mentoring and working with undergraduate students.

Position Special Requirements/Additional Information
Continuation of employment is dependent upon continued funding availability

• This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job.
• Nothing contained herein restricts Montana State University’s rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
• Physical Demands
  • Must be able to move a minimum of 50 pounds.
  • Regular exposure to dust and fumes, materials, and chemicals associated with fossil preparation and molding and casting in the lab.