Biological Field Technician - 708
Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium size consulting firm with offices across the United States, is seeking a self-motivated temporary, full-time field biologist who is skilled in bird identification (including grassland birds and raptors), to assist our North Dakota Office in Bismarck, ND.
Preference will be given to candidates willing to commit to at least 12 months of work, from February 2022 through January of 2023, with possibility of extension. 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 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 prior to their start date. 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 Summary:
Conducting bird point count (i.e., avian use) surveys, bird and bat fatality monitoring surveys beneath operating wind turbines, and other biological surveys, at wind facilities in the Dakotas (primarily North Dakota)
- Work will include field data collection following best practices to collect data, including but not limited to proper implementation of survey protocols, accuracy, and secure and confidential data handling.
- Fieldwork might require days of continuous walking, sometimes 5 – 10 miles per day.
- Fieldwork will require working in potentially high winds, extreme temperatures, and remote locations.
- Candidates must be comfortable operating 4X4 vehicles in potentially rough terrain or less than ideal road conditions.
- Job duties will require use of compass, global positioning system devices, binoculars, range finders, tablets, and digital cameras.
- Technicians will be expected to use good judgment and follow WEST and Project protocols to stay healthy, safe, and efficient.
- Candidates will be required to work weekends periodically.
Compensation: $17.00+ per hour based on experience.
Start date: February 2022.
End date: Should commit to at least 12 months; possibility of extension.
Location: Bismarck, ND.
Housing: Up to $300 of housing reimbursement will be provided for well-qualified, relocating applicants.
Additional details: A WEST rented truck will be provided unless candidate wants reimbursement for a personal vehicle (mileage reimbursement at the federal rate will be provided).GPS unit, compass, camera, and range finder (if necessary) will be provided by WEST; however, technician must be equipped with their own appropriate field clothing, safety-toe boots (steel or plastic), and binoculars.
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.
Job Requirements
- Applicants must be in good physical condition, as fieldwork will be conducted under potentially extreme environmental conditions.
- Applicants must be able to hike 5 – 10 miles per day in potentially adverse weather conditions.
- Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, wildlife management, wildlife biology or equivalent degree preferred; however, undergraduates and enthusiastic workers with relevant experience are encouraged to apply.
- Previous experience conducting biological field studies and/or avian surveys required.
- Must be able to work independently and interact professionally and respectfully with project managers, biologists, technicians, clients, and landowners.
- Ability to follow protocol is essential.
- Precise and thorough data collection is essential.
- Good bird identification skills for species in the upper Great Plains region and ability to use guides and keys for identification are required. Training will be provided for all Project-specific topics.
- Skilled use of GPS units, topographic maps, compass, and other field equipment is required.
- Job requires the person filling this position to be able to appear for work on time; follow instructions from project managers and field supervisors; interact effectively with coworkers and clients; maintain a positive attitude; and accept guidance and constructive criticism.
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.