Intern - Paleontology

About the Role

The intern will support project managers and field leads with paleontological studies, including monitoring, surveys, background research, and reporting, and must be prepared for extended outdoor work in varied weather. • Support project managers with paleontological monitoring, surveys, background research, and reporting. • Conduct fieldwork in varied weather, hiking and working up to 12 hours per day while carrying equipment up to 40 lb. • Utilize standard digital communication, accounting, and data capture tools; learn new platforms as needed. • Apply GPS, digital data collection, and ArcGIS mapping software for field data management. • Produce technical written documents and reports. • Participate in SWCA’s mentorship program, presentations, and intern collaboration activities.

Key Responsibilities

• ▸paleontological monitoring
• ▸fieldwork
• ▸gps mapping
• ▸data capture
• ▸technical reporting
• ▸mentorship

What You Bring

SWCA Environmental Consultants seeks a Paleontology Intern for the 2026 Summer Internship Program. The internship is based in Pasadena or Riverside, California, but may support projects anywhere in the Western USA. It runs from early June to mid‑August 2026, with consideration for earlier start dates or extensions beyond August. Candidates must be currently enrolled (or recent graduate) in a bachelor’s program in paleontology, geology, or a related field, with a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation. Prior field experience, especially a summer geology field school, is strongly preferred. The role requires up to 12‑hour field days, ability to carry equipment up to 40 lb, and operation of a 4WD vehicle on unpaved roads. Helpful skills include familiarity with GPS devices, digital data collection, mapping software such as ArcGIS, and technical writing. SWCA is an employee‑owned firm among the top 200 environmental firms in the U.S. • Maintain a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation; operate 4WD vehicles on unpaved roads.

Requirements

• ▸driver's license
• ▸4wd
• ▸paleontology
• ▸field experience
• ▸arcgis
• ▸gps

Benefits

The role is paid at $21.38 per hour (non‑negotiable, based on location) for a 40‑hour work week. Interns will spend most of their time in the field, with travel and overnight lodging covered by a per‑diem; desktop tasks can be completed in the office or remotely. Overtime may be required. The program includes regular presentations by SWCA leaders, collaboration with other interns, and active mentorship to explore a career in environmental consulting. Applicants are reviewed on a rolling basis until the pool is filled. Accommodations for applicants with disabilities are available via a dedicated contact. SWCA is an equal‑opportunity employer that values diversity, including veterans, women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities. • Receive paid compensation at $21.38/hour, 40‑hour week, with per‑diem for travel and lodging.

Work Environment

Field

Interview Process

-interviews scheduled on a rolling basis after application review.