Biological Field Technician - 693
Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium size consulting firm with offices across the United States, is looking for a temporary Biological Field Technician. Since 1990, WEST has grown to be one of the premier environmental and statistical consulting firms in the United States. WEST has a permanent core of professionals with broad experience in basic and applied ecological studies and the sophisticated analysis of natural resource data.
WEST, Inc. is a federal contractor and is required under Executive Order 14042 to mandate vaccinations for employment. Effective immediately, all prospective hires will be required to provide documentation that they have been fully vaccinated for COVID-19, or as a condition of employment agree to have their final vaccination dose (either their second dose of Pfizer or Moderna, or single dose of Johnson & Johnson) on or before January 4, 2022. Per the order, employees may also request a Medical or Religious exemption from the vaccine requirement and the request must be supported by a doctor for a medical exemption or by a statement from the employee for a sincerely held belief for a religious exemption.
Key Benefits:
- Competitive salary
- Comprehensive Medical (if working 30 or more hours a week)
- Sep IRA (100% employer contributions)
Join WEST and you will discover and enjoy:
- Family friendly environment
- Diverse workforce and DE&I efforts
- Great work/life balance
- Flexible and Casual work culture
- Professional growth opportunity
- Safe and happy working environment
Job Description:
The primary duties involve:
- Conducting standardized avian use surveys (i.e. avian point count surveys)
- Conducting post-construction fatality monitoring
- Other surveys as opportunity arises (canid camera trapping, nest surveys)
- Fieldwork will require long, physically challenging days in a range of temperatures and wind speeds
- Preference given to candidates able to identify western birds by sight and sound
- Must be comfortable with hazards typical of the environment (sharp vegetation, driving a four-wheel drive vehicle, dust, extreme heat, cold and wind)
- Job duties require use of compass, and Global Positioning System devices.
- Training will be provided as appropriate
- An average work week may include 20-30 hours, though some variation is expected depending on the project and seasonal workloads
Compensation: $15-$21/hr DOE
Hours: 30+ per week during spring and summer, with potential for overtime
Start date: February 2022
End date: March 2023, with possibility of extension
Location: Casper, WY
Housing: To be determined on a case by case basis for qualifying applicants
Additional details: GPS units and other field equipment will be provided by WEST. Field technicians must be equipped with professional-grade binoculars, suitable footwear (rugged hiking boots), and appropriate clothing suitable to adverse weather conditions.
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:
- Candidates must be capable of identifying western birds by sight and sound, including eagles in varying age classes, recording data correctly and legibly, following study and safety protocols, keeping on schedule and be a self-starter, and trouble-shooting problems in the field.
- Previous experience conducting avian surveys is preferred, but will train the right candidate
- Candidates should be able to interact positively and professionally with project manager, field lead, landowners, and other technicians.
- Candidate must be a self-starter, have the ability to appear for work on time (surveys will begin at sunrise), maintain focus for long periods of time, follow instructions from the supervisors, maintain positive attitude, and accept guidance and constructive criticism.
- Candidate must be able to perform duties with limited supervision.
- Consistent and effective communication with the team is imperative.
- Environmental conditions include working in rain, high wind, mud, and very cold or hot temperatures.
- Candidates may encounter snakes, insects, and other wildlife.
- Proficient use of topographic maps, compass, GPS units, and other field equipment required.
Physical Requirements:
- Applicants must be in good physical condition, as surveys will be conducted in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme.
- Potential to be hiking in rugged terrain in varied weather conditions with limited cell phone reception.
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.