Associate Biologist-Field Coordinator – (1397)

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium size environmental consulting firm with offices in 13 states, is looking for a full-time experienced individual as our new Associate Biologist-Field Coordinator in our Golden Valley, MN office. 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. This unique blend of disciplines and our years of experience in both areas allow us to provide original solutions to a wide range of natural resource issues from inventory to permitting to risk assessment to basic research. WEST provides consulting services to government, industry, and other organizations.

The Golden Valley office is located just minutes west of downtown Minneapolis in the heart of a commercial district along Highway 55 with access to a range of food and service options. The office is situated on a regional bike trail, has access to Metro Transit busing routes, and has free surface parking. The office is growing and currently consists of approximately 20 full-time staff. The office hosts frequent group gatherings and outings to connect and maintain a positive and engaging work culture. 

Please click here to see what benefits WEST offers!

The minimum base salary for the Associate Biologist position is $50,000, plus annual bonus, and previously stated benefits. Salary will be determined based on education, previous work experience, professional certifications, and demonstrated knowledge.

Job Summary:

WEST has numerous renewable resource projects underway and is continuing to grow in existing markets and expand into new markets. WEST is seeking self-motivated candidates who are interested the following:

• Technical writing (both biological and regulatory)
• Using strong written and verbal communication skills
• Supporting field- and office-based tasks for multiple projects
• Conducting biological studies (e.g., bird surveys, bat surveys [acoustics or mist-netting], wetland delineations, and/or habitat assessments); or strong naturalist skills
• Training, leading, and supervising field personnel
• Occasionally working outdoors in various weather conditions and terrains

Responsibilities Include:

Our Associate Biologists-Field Coordinators work individually, as well as with a team of natural resource specialists, scientists and biometricians to:

• Coordinate biological field-related work for both pre-construction and post-construction renewable work, largely focused on avian species and bats;
• Track survey, resources, equipment, staff, and field survey logistics and planning;
• Conduct occasional field-related work as needed and as experience allows, potentially including: avian use surveys (i.e., avian point count surveys), raptor nest surveys, bat acoustic monitoring, wetland delineation, grassland or other habitat assessment, and/or species-specific surveys;
• Conduct training for field technicians on relevant field protocols;
• Organize and review field data and draft technical memos and reports;
• Assist project managers with the monitoring of project progress, data, and other materials as needed;
• Communicate ideas for improving company and project processes with a positive and constructive attitude;
• Learn to support development of local, state and federal permitting documents and regulatory compliance strategies, particularly those related to Endangered Species Act, Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and National Environmental Policy Act.

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

Requirements:

The ideal candidate would have the following:

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a biological field is required;
• Experience with biological fieldwork and coordination of fieldwork, with preference for surveys associated with avian species (e.g., eagles) and bats;
• Proven ability to work effectively both independently and in a team-based environment;
• Excellent interpersonal and communication (including verbal, written and presentation) skills;
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to handle multiple tasks and projects concurrently;
• Excellent time management skills, work well under time constraints, and meet deliverable targets and deadlines;
• Demonstrated willingness to be flexible and adaptable to changing priorities;
• Solid working knowledge of the Microsoft Office software suite;
• Ability to complete field surveys on foot in a range of weather and ground conditions;
• Ability to follow instructions from managers and accept guidance and constructive criticism; and
• Occasional travel and overnight stays may be required.

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.

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.