Palaeontologist | Average UK Salary & Outlook

Palaeontologists study the fossils of plants and animals.

Typical task
Working hours
Attractive values

Analyze and interpret geological, geochemical, or geophysical information from sources such as survey data, well logs, bore holes, or aerial photos.
Plan or conduct geological, geochemical, or geophysical field studies or surveys, sample collection, or drilling and testing programs used to collect data for research or application.
Prepare

Analyze and interpret geological, geochemical, or geophysical information from sources such as survey data, well logs, bore holes, or aerial photos.
Plan or conduct geological, geochemical, or geophysical field studies or surveys, sample collection, or drilling and testing programs used to collect data for research or application.
Prepare geological maps, cross-sectional diagrams, charts, or reports concerning mineral extraction, land use, or resource management, using results of fieldwork or laboratory research.
Analyze and interpret geological data, using computer software.
Investigate the composition, structure, or history of the Earth's crust through the collection, examination, measurement, or classification of soils, minerals, rocks, or fossil remains.
Assess ground or surface water movement to provide advice on issues such as waste management, route and site selection, or the restoration of contaminated sites.
Locate and estimate probable natural gas, oil, or mineral ore deposits or underground water resources, using aerial photographs, charts, or research or survey results.
Locate and review research articles or environmental, historical, or technical reports.
Communicate geological findings by writing research papers, participating in conferences, or teaching geological science at universities.
Measure characteristics of the Earth, such as gravity or magnetic fields, using equipment such as seismographs, gravimeters, torsion balances, or magnetometers.
Conduct geological or geophysical studies to provide information for use in regional development, site selection, or development of public works projects.
Identify risks for natural disasters, such as mudslides, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions.
Design geological mine maps, monitor mine structural integrity, or advise and monitor mining crews.
Advise construction firms or government agencies on dam or road construction, foundation design, land use, or resource management.
Inspect construction projects to analyze engineering problems, using test equipment or drilling machinery.
Develop applied software for the analysis and interpretation of geological data.
Identify deposits of construction materials suitable for use as concrete aggregates, road fill, or other applications.
Collaborate with medical or health researchers to address health problems related to geological materials or processes.
Determine methods to incorporate geomethane or methane hydrates into global energy production or evaluate the potential environmental impacts of such incorporation.
Determine ways to mitigate the negative consequences of mineral dust dispersion.
Develop strategies for more environmentally friendly resource extraction and reclamation.
Develop ways to capture or use gases burned off as waste during oil production processes.
Identify new sources of platinum group elements for industrial applications, such as automotive fuel cells or pollution abatement systems.
Identify possible sites for carbon sequestration projects.
Locate potential sources of geothermal energy.
Provide advice on the safe siting of new nuclear reactor projects or methods of nuclear waste management.
Research geomechanical or geochemical processes to be used in carbon sequestration projects.
Research ways to reduce the ecological footprint of increasingly prevalent megacities.
Review work plans to determine the effectiveness of activities for mitigating soil or groundwater contamination.
Study historical climate change indicators found in locations such as ice sheets or rock formations to develop climate change models.

Average salary
38,029 GBP *
per year

Average salary for Palaeontologist

38,466 GBP
36,688 GBP

Average salary for part-time Palaeontologist

Average salary for full-time Palaeontologist

Showing:

27,478 GBP
25,125 GBP
32,106 GBP

38,029 GBP
36,688 GBP
38,466 GBP

Salary over time for Palaeontologist

Salary for this role has increased over time

33,271 GBP
33,712 GBP
35,268 GBP
35,376 GBP
36,608 GBP
37,704 GBP
38,029 GBP
39,930 GBP
30,138 GBP

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Future outlook for Palaeontologists

Very good outlook

33 000+ jobs available

Balanced outlook

-1% yearly wage growth (on average)

Very good outlook

24% chance of automation in the future

Which qualifications do I need?

Find out what you need to know in order to become a Palaeontologist and the highest average level of education for people in this role.

In terms of people already doing this job:

50% of people in this role have a Bachelor's degree
25% of people in this role have a Master's degree
13% of people in this role have a Doctoral degree

You'll need:

maths knowledge
knowledge of geography
analytical thinking skills
excellent verbal communication skills
science skills
excellent written communication skills
knowledge of physics
knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Get the right qualification to begin your journey to becoming a Palaeontologist

Archeaology

Analytical Thinking Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems. Integrity Job requires being honest and ethical. Attention to Detail Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks. Initiative Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges. Persistence Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.

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Palaeontologist | Average UK Salary & Outlook

Salary statistics

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Future outlook for Palaeontologists

Palaeontologist - Your future job?

Which qualifications do I need?

Things to highlight for your Palaeontologist interview