Biological Field Technician – (1461)

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium size consulting firm with offices across the United States, 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: $16 – $21/hour, DOE
• Start Date: 03/13/2024
• End Date: 05/15/2024 (with possibility of extension)
• Location: near Bismarck, ND
• Housing: Housing is provided in a furnished apartment, or similar.
• 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.

Job Summary:

WEST is looking for a biological field technician near Bismarck, ND, to conduct ground-based prairie grouse lek surveys. Successful candidates must be able to work in rural field settings, work well both independently and with others, and follow field and data entry protocols. Previous experience and/or knowledge of upland game birds and other avian species is preferred. Surveys begin mid-March 2024 and conclude mid-May 2024, at the latest.

Primary duties involve:

• Conducting prairie grouse lek surveys (audio and visual) during early morning hours.
• Collection of data on paper datasheets and prompt delivery of datasheets to field coordinator.
• Roads on the study site are unimproved and require advanced field navigation and use of four-wheel drive vehicles. Candidates may be required to use traction devices in snow/mud (e.g., chains, trac-grabbers, traction boards).
• Position will consist of approximately 3 to 4-hour days, approximately 15-25 hours per week; additional hours may be available if applicant has bird identification skills.
• Field conditions will include a wide range of extreme high and low temperatures and varying wind speeds.
• Upland bird identification skills and use of a compass, GPS, paper datasheets, tablets and other electronic devices for navigation and data collection.

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.

We will outfit crews with proper field equipment and supervision. Training to be provided as warranted. Biologists are expected to have basic field skills including but not limited to:

• Emphasis on Health & Safety.
• Ability to follow survey and data collection protocols.
• Data QA/QC.
• Orientation skills.
• Utilize tablets, GPS units, and other field equipment.
• Experience with 4wd vehicles.
• Strong communication skills.
• Knowledge of local flora and fauna or ability to quickly learn local species.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or an equivalent degree preferred.
• Candidates experienced in bird identification will be given preference.
• Previous experience on biological field studies and/or prior field experience 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; experience operating side-by-side is ideal.
• 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.

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.