Biological Field Technician – (1457)

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST) is a premier environmental and statistical consulting firm with offices across the US. WEST has a permanent core of professionals with broad experience in basic and applied ecological studies ready and willing to mentor young and transitional professionals. Beyond science, we encourage and incentivize participation in conservation actions at the local and national level and have developed a company-wide diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) program.

We are looking for multiple biologists to support field surveys throughout the 2024 field season. Whether you are a recent graduate, working toward a degree, need a change of pace, or a late career biologist looking to get back to your field roots, this is a great opportunity.

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: $18 – $20/ hour, DOE
• Location: Eastern, MT, Western, ND
• Start Date: Late May/Early June 2024

Job Description:

The successful candidates will be responsible for conducting botanical and wildlife surveys in the prairies of eastern Montana and western North Dakota. Previous experience and/or knowledge of BLM and USFS sensitive species and USACE wetland delineation procedures are a plus. Surveys are presumed to start late May/early June 2024 and may continue through October 2024. Biologists will need to be experienced in any or all of the following topics:

• General field surveys.
• Wetland and waterbody delineations.
• General botanical surveys, including noxious weed identification and common plains species identification.
• General botanical surveys, including noxious weed identification and common plains species identification.
• Sensitive species habitat suitability survey and/or identification.
  • Prairie dogs, burrowing owls, Dakota skipper butterfly, among other state and federally listed species.

Field biologists typically work in teams of two in remote locations across the Northern Great Plains of North Dakota and Montana. Proper field equipment (i.e. shovels, gloves, safety helmets) will be provided by WEST; however, personal equipment (i.e. backpacks and boots) will be your responsibility. Project-specific training to be provided as warranted.  Field schedules may vary, but a 6-day work week is currently expected.

We expect biologists to have basic field skills including but not limited to:

• Emphasis on Health & Safety.
• Field responsibility.
• Ability to follow survey and data collection protocols.
• Data QA/QC.
• Orientation skills.
• Utilize tablets, GPS units, and other field equipment.
• Physically able to walk long stretches over rough terrain and in temperature extremes.
• Experience with 4wd vehicles.
• Strong communication skills.
• Knowledge of local flora and fauna or ability to quickly learn local species.

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:

The requirements for this position are focused on general biology knowledge, a desire to be in the field, and a willingness to follow standard protocols to ensure the successful completion of project work. The successful candidate must be a self-starter who possesses:

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in biological studies, natural resources, wildlife management, wildlife biology or equivalent; or degree in process.
• Previous experience conducting botanical, wetland/waterbody, and/or relevant wildlife surveys.
• A strong track record of maintaining positive relationships with coworkers, clients, or stakeholders.
• Ability to follow instructions from managers and accept guidance and constructive criticism.
• Desire to be outside for long periods of time.

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.