Biological Field Technician – (1587)

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, full-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: $22-$24/hr depending on experience
• Start date: August 26, 2024
• End date: October 31, 2024
• Location: Blythe, CA
• Housing: A generous housing stipend will be provided. Must be willing to live in Blythe or within a 60 min drive to the facility. 
• Additional details: Preference will be given to candidates with AWD or 4WD personal vehicles. Mileage reimbursement will be provided. GPS unit, compass, camera, and range finder (if necessary) will be provided by WEST; however, technician must be equipped with and provide own, appropriate field clothing, and binoculars.

Job Description:

• Conducting fatality monitoring for bird fatalities at a large-scale solar facility + transmission line
• Preference will be given to Technicians with the ability to identify birds of the Southwestern US
• Fieldwork will require long days in high temperatures (100+ degrees) and variable wind speeds. 
• Fatality monitoring will entail long hours of walking, sometimes in inclement conditions.
• Candidate must be comfortable with hazards typical of the environment (sharp vegetation, dust/sand, extreme heat and cold, high winds, snakes, and stinging insects). 
• Hours worked are between 30-40 hours per week and may require overtime.
• Job duties require use of compass, global positioning system devices, binoculars, range finders, and digital cameras as well as the ability to maintain equipment.
• Training will be provided for all survey efforts and job-related activities.
• Candidates must be certified to drive a UTV. Training will be provided prior to the start of field season if needed. 
• Technicians will be required to follow all safety protocols for WEST and the solar energy facilities. 
• Technicians will be expected to use good judgment to work safely and efficiently.

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:

• Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, wildlife management, wildlife biology or equivalent degree preferred; however, undergraduates and enthusiastic workers are encouraged to apply.
• Must be able to work independently and interact professionally and respectfully with project managers, biologists, technicians, clients, and landowners. 
• Must be able to maintain equipment. Ability to follow protocol is essential. 
• Good bird identification skills for species in the region, ability to identify bats in the region, and use of guides and keys for identification are preferred.
• Skilled use of GPS units, topographic maps, compass, and other field equipment is required.
• Job requires the person filling this position to be able to appear for work on time; follow instructions from project managers and field supervisors; interact effectively with coworkers and clients; maintain a positive attitude; and accept guidance and constructive criticism. 
• Precise and thorough data collection is essential.

Physical Requirements:

• Applicants must be in good physical shape, as surveys will be conducted in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme.
• Hike in adverse conditions for long hours

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.