Biological Field Technician – (1556)

Interested in working outdoors? Have a wildlife-related degree you would like to put to use? Then Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST) has a job opportunity for you! WEST is currently looking for 3 full-time Biological Field Technicians to assist with a variety of wildlife survey work in Illinois this season.

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: $17.75-19.00/hr DOE; eligible for overtime pay
• Housing: Reimbursement may be provided based on location and duties.
• Start Date: July 2024
• End Date: October 15, 2024
• Location: Central Illinois (various counties)
• Additional Details: Field equipment needed to complete surveys will be provided by WEST. Field technicians must be equipped with suitable footwear (rugged hiking boots for pre-construction surveys or steel/composite-toed boots for post-construction surveys), appropriate clothing, and professional-grade binoculars for those conducting avian use surveyors.

 Job Summary:

WEST is looking for a candidate to reside in or near central Illinois and conduct wildlife surveys throughout the region. Surveys will focus on post-construction mortality monitoring at active wind facilities.

Successful candidates must be able to work in a rural field setting, follow standard operating protocols, and work well both independently and with others. Training, both virtual and in person, will be provided for all survey types. An average workweek will be approximately 30-40 hours, though there may be weeks requiring shorter or longer hours. Candidates must be comfortable working outdoors in variable weather conditions and driving a four-wheel drive vehicle. Job duties require use of a compass, GPS, paper and/or electronic data collection, and/or electronic map devices.

 Responsibilities include: 

• Post-construction monitoring surveys and data management
• Participation in Carcass persistence and Searcher Efficiency Trials
• Field and in-hand (via specimen) identification of midwestern bat and bird species.

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:

• Successful candidates must be capable of recording data accurately, following study and safety protocols, following a schedule, and trouble-shooting problems in the field.
• Candidates should be able to interact positively and professionally with coworkers and landowners.
• Applicants must be able to appear for work on time (surveys may begin as early as sunrise), maintain focus for long periods of time, follow instructions, and accept guidance and constructive criticism.
• Consistent communication with the team and a positive attitude is imperative.
• Environmental conditions may include working in rain, wind, mud, and temperature extremes.
• Candidates may encounter snakes, insects, and other wildlife during surveys.
• Candidates must use/wear all required personal protective equipment, such as safety vests, hard hats, and gloves as required.
• Proficient use of compass, GPS units, tablet and other field equipment is preferable.
• Follow all WEST safety protocols
• Training will be provided for all survey efforts and job related activities

Physical Requirements:

• Applicants must be in good physical condition, as surveys will be conducted in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme. Must be tolerant of biting or stinging insects.
• Ability to walk long distances (10+ miles) in extreme heat
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs

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.