Biological Field Technician – (1465)

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic environmental and statistical consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada, is looking for a temporary, part time, Biological Field Technician to help investigate the impact of wind turbines on bats and birds at an operational wind facility.

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: $17.00-$21.00/hour, DOE
• Housing: not provided
• Start Date: March 25, 2024
• End Date: May 20, 2024 (with the possibility of extension)
• Location: Hillsdale County, MI
• Additional Details: Field equipment needed to complete surveys will be provided by WEST. Field technicians must provide their own suitable footwear (steel or composite-toed boots) and clothing appropriate for field conditions.  Mileage will be reimbursed at the federal rate for personal vehicle use.

Job Summary:

WEST is looking for a biological field technician to work independently, but within a larger team, to collect data used to assess the impacts of wind turbines on bats and birds. The successful candidate will gain hands-on field experience conducting standardized searches beneath wind turbines to locate and document bat and bird carcasses, as well as participate in trials designed to measure carcass persistence and detectability. The average work week may include 20-30 hours, though there may be weeks requiring fewer hours, or weekend work. Training will be provided in bat identification as well as field data collection.

 Responsibilities include: 

• Conducting fieldwork independently in remote locations
• Conducting all fieldwork while adhering to WEST and client safety requirements
• Communicating effectively with WEST staff, clients, and landowners while maintaining a positive attitude
• Comfort with hazards typical of field work (e.g. navigation and travel on rural roads, extreme heat or cold, biting insects, sharp vegetation)
• Collection of precise and complete data according to standardized protocols
• Field and in-hand identification of bat and bird species
• Accurate use of field equipment including compasses, range finders, tablets, and the capacity to maintain equipment in good working order

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

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or an equivalent degree preferred, but job experience may substitute. Undergraduates and enthusiastic workers with relevant experience are encouraged to apply
• Precise and thorough data collection is essential
• Must be able to appear for work on time, maintain focus for long periods of time, follow instructions, and accept guidance and constructive criticism
• Experience with compass, global positioning system devices, range finders, and other field equipment is preferred, along with map reading and navigational skills
• Previous experience conducting biological field surveys is beneficial, experience working in extreme weather conditions and safely traversing rough terrain is essential
• Good bat and bird identification skills for species in the region, and the ability to use field guides/keys are preferred
• Must wear/use all required personal protective equipment, such as safety vests, hard hats, and gloves as required

Physical Requirements:

• Applicants must be in good physical condition, as surveys will require walking several miles per day in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme
• Must be comfortable with hazards typical of the environment (uneven or steep terrain, mud, dust, sharp vegetation, wildlife)
• Must be willing and able to spend a majority of the field day (8-12 hours) in the elements, collecting and managing data with great attention to detail

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.