Avian Field Technician - (1139)

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium-size consulting firm with offices across the United States, is looking for a temporary, part-time, Avian Field Technician, to support Projects in North Dakota and potentially western Montana. Since 1990, WEST has grown to be one of the premier environmental and statistical consulting firms in the United States. WEST has a permanent core of professionals with broad experience in basic and applied ecological studies and the sophisticated analysis of natural resource data. 

Key Details:

• Compensation: $18-$21/hour, DOE
• Completion Bonus: $1,000 to be paid upon satisfactory completion of the avian surveys (Jan. 2024)
• Monthly housing stipend: up to $750/mo. (for an apartment)
• Start Date: 03/20/2023
• End Date: 01/31/2024 (with possibility of extension
• Location: Williams County, ND.
• Additional Details: GPS units and other field equipment will be provided by WEST. Training to be provided as warranted. Lodging will be provided (if an apartment is not applicable). Field technicians must be equipped with professional-grade binoculars, suitable footwear (rugged hiking boots), and appropriate clothing for extreme weather conditions associated with four seasons.

Job Description:

WEST is looking for an Avian Field Technician to conduct ground-based prairie grouse lek surveys and monthly avian use surveys in Western North Dakota. 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, traction boards). 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, but training will be provided. Prairie Grouse Lek surveys begin late March 2023 and conclude mid May 2023, at the latest, whereas avian use surveys are monthly and ongoing until January 2024, with the possibility of extension. An average workweek will be approximately 30-40 hours, though there may be weeks requiring shorter or longer hours depending on seasonal objectives.

Primary duties involve:

• Conducting prairie grouse lek surveys (audio and visual) during early morning hours.
• Collection of quality data on paper datasheets and prompt delivery of complete and reviewed datasheets to field coordinator or project manager, as applicable.
• Grouse identification and use of a compass, GPS, paper datasheets, tablets and other electronic devices for navigation and data collection.
• Avian use surveys for small and large birds, including songbirds (mainly grassland birds), raptors, waterfowl, and shorebirds.
• Species identification for North Dakota birds by sight and sound.

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

Job Requirements:

We expect applicants to emphasize Health & Safety and have basic field skills including but not limited to:

• Applicants must be in good physical condition, as fieldwork will be conducted under potentially extreme environmental conditions.
• Previous experience conducting biological field studies.
• Ability to follow protocol is essential.
• Precise and thorough data collection and data quality control skills are essential.
• Candidates should have, at minimum, a familiarity with upper Great Plains bird species and ability to use guides and keys for identification.
• Skilled use of GPS units, topographic maps, compass, and other field equipment.
• Job requires the person filling this position to work independently and reliably.
• The selected applicant should be able to appear for work on time; follow instructions from project managers and field supervisors.
• Experience with 4wd vehicles.
• Strong communication skills to interact effectively with coworkers and clients; to maintain a positive attitude; and to accept guidance and constructive criticism.
• Previous experience conducting avian surveys.
• Follow all WEST safety protocols.

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. 

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.

https://west-inc.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/Posting/view/1139

Benefit & Compensation Infographic-Temporary_V2_2022 (1).pdf