Biological Field Technician - (1530)

Western Ecosystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium size consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada, is looking for two temporary full-time, Biological Field Technicians, in Minnesota. 

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 - 21 per hour, DOE; eligible for overtime pay
• Housing: Up to $500 housing reimbursement may be provided if relocation is required.
• Start Date: May 2024
• End Date: early November 2024
• Location: Southwestern Minnesota near Marshall, Pipestone, Worthington, or Luverne.
• Additional Details: GPS units and other field equipment will be provided by WEST. Field technicians must be equipped with suitable footwear (steel/composite-toed boots) and clothing appropriate for all weather conditions.

Job Summary:

WEST is looking for candidates for two positions within Lyon, Pipestone, or Nobles counties, Minnesota. Post-construction bird and bat monitoring is the primary role of these positions. Primary responsibilities include conducting standardized searches for bird and bat carcasses beneath wind turbines. Depending on experience, successful candidates may also assist with pre-construction avian use surveys. Responsibilities for preconstruction avian use surveys include conducting point-count surveys for songbirds, hawks, eagles, and waterfowl of the region. Successful candidates must be able to work in a rural field setting, work well both independently and with others, and follow field and data collection protocols. Previous experience conducting standardized carcass searches is preferred. To assist with pre-construction avian use surveys, previous experience conducting avian use surveys or a background in birding are required. Training will be provided for both survey types. An average workweek will be approximately 35-45 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:  

• Conducting fieldwork independently in remote locations. 
• Field navigation and travel on rural roads to record data.  
• Working outdoors in a range of weather conditions.

Post-construction monitoring responsibilities include: 

• Conducting surveys looking for bird and bat carcasses beneath active wind turbines. 
• Participation in carcass persistence and searcher efficiency trials. 
• Field and in-hand bird and bat species identification, aging, and sexing.

Pre-construction monitoring responsibilities include (assisting with pre-construction surveys is dependent on qualifications): 

• Avian surveys for songbirds, hawks, waterfowl, and eagles.
• Bird identification by sight and sound (experience required). 

These are general descriptions of the functions for these positions and are not inclusive of the duties which may be associated with these position

Requirements:

• 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. 
• Employees 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.  
• To assist with pre-construction avian use surveys, previous experience conducting avian use surveys or a background in birding are required. 
• Consistent communication with the team and a positive attitude are imperative. 
• Environmental conditions may include working in rain, wind, mud, and temperature extremes.  
• Candidates may encounter snakes, insects, and other wildlife. 
• Candidates must use/wear required personal protective equipment, such as safety vests and hard hats as required.  
• Proficient use of topographic maps, compass, GPS units, tablet and other field equipment as required. 

Physical Requirements:

• Applicants must be in good physical condition, able to walk over uneven terrain in the field. Surveys will be conducted outdoors 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 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.

https://west-inc.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/Posting/view/1530