Biological Field Technician

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic environmental and statistical consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada, is looking for a temporary, part time Biological Field Technician.

WEST has a permanent core of professionals with broad experience in basic and applied ecological studies and the sophisticated analysis of natural resource data. Since its founding in 1990, the WEST team has shaped the foundation of what we do, and what we believe in through our core values and key principles. Our work matters to our clients, communities, and the environment. Join WEST and discover a company of passionate, committed, and highly motivated individuals.

Please click here to see what benefits WEST offers!

Key Details:

• Compensation: $22/hour, DOE
• Housing: Housing is provided
• Start Date: Approximately June 1
• End Date: October 15 (with possibility of extension)
• Location: Pierre, South Dakota
• Additional Details: A vehicle will be provided for work completion or mileage reimbursed for personal vehicle use. Required field equipment (GPS unit, tablet, compass, camera, range finder, etc.) will be provided by WEST; however, technician must be equipped and provide their own suitable footwear (rugged hiking boots, etc.), binoculars, and appropriate clothing.

Job Summary:

Primary duties may involve:

• Conduct bird and bat fatality monitoring surveys and associated bias trials on operating wind farms.
• Field work will require long days in a range of temperatures and wind speeds and long hours of walking, sometimes in inclement conditions.
• Candidates must be comfortable with hazards typical of the environment (sharp vegetation, driving a four-wheel drive vehicle, dust, extreme heat and cold).
• Hours worked is between 30-40 hours per week and may require occasional overtime or weekend work.
• Job duties require use of compass, global positioning system devices, binoculars, range finders, and digital cameras as well as the ability to maintain equipment.
• Training will be provided for all survey efforts and job-related activities.
• Technicians will be required to follow all safety protocols for WEST and the wind energy facilities.
• Technicians will be expected to use good judgment to stay safe and work efficiently.
• Technician may assist with other biological surveys as the need arises.

This is a general description of the functions for this position and is not inclusive of the duties which may be associated with this position.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or an equivalent degree preferred.
• Previous experience on biological field studies and/or prior field experience preferred.
• Good bird identification skills for species in the region, ability to identify bats in the region, and use of guides and keys for identification are preferred.
• Skilled use of topographic maps, compass, GPS units, and other field equipment is preferred.
• Candidates should have exceptional communication skills and ability to adapt to changing timelines and project needs.
• Candidates must be comfortable operating 4X4 vehicles in potentially rough terrain or less than ideal road conditions.
• Must be able to work independently and interact professionally and respectfully with project managers, clients, landowners, and other technicians.
• Must be able to follow survey and safety protocols, ensure data accuracy, and demonstrate secure and confidential data handling.
• The position requires the ability to appear for work on time and work independently with minimal supervision; to follow instructions from project managers and field supervisors; to interact effectively with coworkers and clients; to maintain a positive attitude; and to accept guidance and constructive criticism.
• Precise and thorough data collection is essential.

Physical Requirements:

• Applicants must be in good physical shape, as surveys will be conducted in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme.
• Hike in adverse conditions for long hours.

After an offer of employment is made, the candidate must successfully pass a pre-employment background check, drug screening, and a DMV records check that meets WEST’s minimum criteria to operate a motor vehicle on behalf of the company.  A valid driver’s license will be required. Candidates must adhere to all health and safety requirements. 

WEST provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of their race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, genetics, and any protected veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.  Further, WEST takes affirmative action to ensure that all individuals are treated fairly, and without discrimination, for recruitment, selection, advancement and every other term and privilege associated with employment.