Biological Field Technician - (1149)

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium size consulting firm with offices across the United States, is looking for a temporary, full-time Biological Field Technician. 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-$22/ hour, DOE
• Completion Bonus: performance based completion bonus, up to $750 
• Monthly housing reimbursement: The ideal candidate will be located near Garden City. $600 monthly housing reimbursement provided if relocation is required.
• Start Date: March 2023
• End Date: March 2024 (with possibility of second year extension)
• Location: Garden City, Kansas
• Additional Details: GPS units and other field equipment will be provided by WEST. Training to be provided as warranted. Hotel/VRBO/Airbnb lodging may be provided (if an apartment is not applicable). Field Biologists must already be equipped with professional-grade binoculars, suitable footwear (rugged hiking boots), and appropriate clothing for extreme weather conditions associated with four seasons.

Job Description:

The primary responsibilities of this position is to conduct monthly avian use surveys (i.e. avian point count surveys) for songbirds, hawks, and eagles, but other biological tasks may be required. Previous experience and/or knowledge of avian surveys is preferred, but training can be provided. Successful candidates must be able to work in a rural field setting, work well both independently and with others, and follow field and data entry protocols. An average workweek will be 40 hours, though there may be weeks requiring shorter or longer hours depending on seasonal objectives and project workloads. Longer days and more hours are expected during spring and summer months coinciding with avian activity.

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 or Associate’s Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or an equivalent degree preferred; students working towards degree may apply and those with comparable field experience will be strongly considered.
• Applicants must be capable of identifying Southern Great Plains birds or ability to identify species using guides/keys.
• Fieldwork will include travel on field roads into project area, field navigation, and observing and recording for avian activity.
• Candidate must be comfortable using a compass, GPS, paper datasheets, tablets and other electronic devices for navigation, recording data correctly, following study and safety protocols, keeping on schedule, and trouble-shooting problems in the field.
• Fieldwork will require long days in a range of temperatures (hot in summer; cold in winter) and other environmental conditions include working in rain, wind, mud, and snow.
• Employee must be able to appear for work on time (surveys often begin as early as sunrise), maintain focus for long periods of time, follow instructions from the team leader, maintain positive attitude, and accept guidance and constructive criticism.
• Candidates may encounter snakes, insects, and other wildlife.
• All candidates will be required to follow all WEST Health & Safety protocols.

Physical Requirements:

• Applicants must be in good physical condition, as surveys will be conducted in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme.

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/1149

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