Biological Field Technician

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: $25.00 - $28.00/hour
• Housing: Housing allowance provided
• Start Date: April 10, 2025
• End Date: October 18, 2025
• Location: Tehachapi, California
• Additional Details: GPS units and other field equipment will be provided by WEST. Field technicians must be equipped with professional-grade binoculars, suitable footwear (rugged hiking boots), and appropriate clothing.

Job Description:

The primary duty involves conducting:

•  Fieldwork will require long days in an air-conditioned tower scanning and monitoring GPS locations of California condors and interacting with staff on the ground to help active monitor condor activity.
• This job includes conducting field work in a remote location.
• Work is full-time and is expected 16 hours per day for two days of work (Saturday and Sunday) and overtime is paid accordingly could be necessary depending on monitoring requirements.
• Candidate must be comfortable with hazards typical of the environment (sharp vegetation, driving a four-wheel drive vehicle, dust, extreme heat and cold).
• Job duties attention to detail and being able to communicate well with a team.

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.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or an equivalent degree preferred; Undergraduates or other enthusiastic workers are still encouraged to apply
• Candidates with field experience at regional wind projects will be given preference
• Experience with bat and bird identification of Midwestern species or ability to identify species using guides/keys is preferred
• Skilled use of computers, GPS units, topographic maps, compass, and other field equipment is required
• Candidates must be organized, and able to collect and manage data, including implementing quality control measures
• Must be able to work independently and interact professionally and respectfully with project managers, biologists, technicians, clients, and landowners
• Must be able to appear for work on time; start times will often be as early as sunrise

Physical Requirements:

• Applicants must be in good physical condition; surveys will require walking for entire shifts in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme
• Technicians must be equipped with and provide own suitable safety toed footwear (steel or composite-toe), clothing suitable for outdoor work in all elements, and binoculars (at least 8x42)

Due to stringent client requirements and WEST's commitment to provide a safe and healthy work environment for everyone, all prospective hires will be required to provide documentation that they have been fully vaccinated for COVID-19 prior to their start date. As an exception, employees may also request a Medical or Religious exemption from the vaccine requirement and the request must be supported by a doctor for a medical exemption or by a statement from the employee outlining a sincerely held belief to qualify for a religious exemption. Please contact us if you have any questions related to the requirement and/or exemptions.

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.