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Abolished 9/28/03 PALEONTOLOGIST4104E1 Pay Grade: 27 DEFINITION OF WORK Summary This is specialized, technical work in the collection, preparation, and study of fossil vertebrates. Work involves collecting and preparing fossil vertebrates for mounting or scientific study. Supervision is exercised over laboratory assistants and employees collecting samples in the field. Standard Classification Factors Supervision Received - LEVEL C: "Under direction…" Employees at this level usually receive a general outline of the work to be performed and are generally free to develop their own sequences and methods within the scope of established policies. New, unusual, or complex work situations are almost always referred to a superior for advice. Work is periodically checked for progress and conformance to established policies and requirements. Difficulty - LEVEL C: Considerable… Duties which require a high degree of concentration because of the many factors which must be considered and weighed before a decision can be reached. Usually positions that require planning, developing, and coordinating programs and directing fairly large groups of people fall into this category. Complexity - LEVEL C: Work is of a standardized nature that may involve a variety of duties. Analytical thought becomes more important at this level due to increased data and changing situations. Tasks usually have several steps, some of which may not be directly related. Alternatives may exist for processes or methods to be used in solving problems. Workers at this level exercise a moderate amount of independent judgment. Work is controlled by routine review and reporting to or consultation with supervisors. When guidelines exist at this level, they tend to be more complicated or technical in nature requiring careful interpretation. Consequence of Actions or Decisions - LEVEL C: Consequences of actions or decisions at this level are limited in scope and effect as the work is reviewed occasionally. Errors may cause moderate inefficiency. Costs due to errors may be significant. Contacts - LEVEL B: The purpose of the contact is to plan, coordinate and advise on work efforts, interpret guidelines or instructions, elicit opinions or give guidance on the basis of facts to resolve common issues or problems when the information is not sensitive in nature or the individuals or groups are working toward mutual goals and have basically cooperative attitudes. Well developed communication skills are required. Physical Demands - LEVEL C: The work requires moderate physical exertion. Environmental Conditions - LEVEL B: The work environment involves moderate hazards, risks or discomforts. Exposure to minor deviations from pleasant environmental conditions is normal. Minor to serious injuries are possible. Supervision/Leadership - LEVEL A: No supervisory or leadership responsibility; may explain work instructions or assist in training others. Distinguishing Features Differs from the Vertebrate Zoologist class in which the incumbents collect modern vertebrate animals and animal specimens and serve as curator of the research collections. EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED Plans and conducts field trips to locate and excavate fossils or material containing fossil vertebrates; trains others in the use of geologic, topographic and location maps, charts and related graphic materials, and in the skills and techniques of locating, identifying, and excavating fossil vertebrates. Plans work, determines priorities, and assigns and reviews work of employees or students in cleaning, preparing, identifying, labeling, and packing fossils in a laboratory. Utilizes various casting and molding media and processes for reproducing anatomically accurate replicas of rare or uncommon fossils and restores damaged or missing parts of specimens for research or exhibit use. Cooperates and assists in the publication of research papers with paleontology staff and students. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS Knowledge *Knowledge of the principles, methods, techniques, and materials used for the collection and preparation of fossil vertebrates. *Knowledge of vertebrate skeletons. *Knowledge of fossil vertebrates and characteristic geological formations. Abilities *Ability to plan exhibits and direct their installation. *Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. *Ability to establish and maintain satisfactory relationships with professional staff, other employees, and students. *Ability to use the specialized tools and equipment necessary in the study, preparation, and mounting of fossil vertebrates. *Necessary at Entry MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's degree and independent work experience in paleontology. NC: 06/94 |