Requirements:
- Ownership of a suitable candidate dog (see Minimum Dog Suitability Requirements below) and successful completion of WEST's Scent Training Program for Wildlife Detection Dogs prior to the extension of a formal offer of employment (WEST provides a scent training protocol and virtual training guidance).
- Successful completion of odor recognition testing and in-person, double-blind scent detection evaluation trials.
- Demonstrable knowledge of dog behavior and rewards-based training; knowledge of both learning theory and scent theory is preferred.
- Ability to work independently as well as communicate and coordinate effectively and professionally with crew members, site management, WEST project coordinators, and landowners.
- Must demonstrate safe handling, control, and transportation of your dog(s) at all times
- Flexibility, a high degree of self-motivation, a tolerance for doing repetitive tasks, and an ability to thrive under challenging field conditions.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Biology, or an equivalent degree is preferred; however, candidates without a degree that have suitable dog(s) and experience training, handling, or participating in applicable detection dog work or sports are encouraged to apply.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to walk 8-10 miles a day over steep and uneven terrain in variable weather conditions.
- Ability to maintain a positive attitude during long workdays (8-12 hours) in the outdoors.
- Must be comfortable with exposure to hazards typical of the environment (e.g., insects, dense, tall, and prickly vegetation, rattlesnakes, livestock, and other wildlife, unrestrained dogs, extreme heat and cold, high wind speeds, farming/agricultural activities, and poorly maintained roads).
Minimum Dog Suitability Requirements:
- Physically healthy and of an appropriate age and size to be able to walk/run 10 miles a day over steep and uneven terrain in variable weather and environmental conditions.
- Up-to-date on locally required vaccines, including rabies.
- Non-brachycephalic
- No bite history
- Demonstrates a high level of trainability
Successful candidates must be able to pass a background check, a pre-employment drug screen, 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 is required. Candidates must adhere to all health and safety requirements of the company and clients, including adhering to WEST’s Detection Dog 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.