Biological Field Technician - (1227)

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium size consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada, is looking for a temporary, part-time, Biological Technician for the duration of one year, with the possibility of a second-year extension.

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.

Key Details:

• Compensation: $18.00 - $22.00/ hour, DOE
• Completion Bonus: $500 will be provided upon completion of the Project while in good standing.
• Start Date: June 1, 2023
• End Date: June 2024 (with possibility of second year extension)
• Location: Near Tekamah, Burt County, Nebraska       
• Additional Details: Mileage reimbursement at the current federal rate will be provided for personal vehicle use or vehicle will be provided during survey work. GPS units and other field equipment will be provided by WEST. Technicians must already be equipped with professional-grade binoculars, suitable footwear (rugged hiking boots), and appropriate clothing for extreme weather conditions associated with four seasons. Candidates within an hour drive will be given preference. Hotel/VRBO/Airbnb lodging will be provided on an as needed basis.

Job Description:

The primary responsibility of this position is to conduct twice a month avian use surveys (i.e., avian point count surveys) for songbirds, hawks, and eagles, but other biological tasks may be required. Each round of avian use surveys will take three to four days, weather permitting. During the month of June, the candidate will also be required to conduct three days of breeding bird surveys, pending weather. Previous experience and/or knowledge of avian surveys is preferred, but training can be provided.

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 an equivalent degree preferred; students working towards a degree may apply and those with comparable field experience will be strongly considered.
• Applicants must be capable of identifying Nebraska birds or have the 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.
• Employees 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/1227

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