What are the responsibilities and job description for the Biological Field Technician position at Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST)?
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 in Bismarck, North Dakota.
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:
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Compensation: $17.50-$24.25/hour, DOE
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Housing: A housing stipend will be provided. The successful applicant will be responsible for securing their own housing within 45 minutes of the Project location.
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Start Date: As soon as possible
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End Date: February 2026
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Location: Bismarck, North Dakota
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Additional Details: Technician must be equipped with and provide their own suitable footwear (rugged hiking boots, etc.), binoculars, and appropriate clothing. Vehicle and data collection tools for work completion and a spotting scope (if necessary) will be provided by WEST.
Job Description:
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Assist on standardized avian use point count surveys (audio and visual).
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Job duties require bird identification, particularly hawks, eagles, and other raptors, and the use of a compass, GPS, paper and electronic map devices.
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Candidate must be comfortable with hazards typical of the environment, including driving a four-wheel drive vehicle, dust, wind, and extreme heat and cold.
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Good communication skills are highly desired, as the technician will most often be working alone in a remote area with poor or no cellular service.
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Opportunity for additional field work (ground-based lek surveys for prairie grouse during the spring breeding season) may be available based on project needs and candidate qualifications.
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.
Job Requirements:
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Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or an equivalent degree preferred.
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Proficient use of topographic maps, compass, and other field equipment is preferred.
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Candidates should have excellent communication skills and ability to adapt to changing timelines and project needs.
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Candidates must be comfortable operating 4X4 vehicles in potentially rough terrain or less than ideal road conditions.
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Must be able to work independently and interact professionally and respectfully with project managers, field coordinators, clients, landowners, and other technicians.
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Must be able to follow survey and safety protocols, ensure data accuracy, and demonstrate secure and confidential data handling.
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Previous experience conducting avian use surveys is preferred, or proficiency in identification by sight and sound of
1) eagles (all species and age classes),
2) diurnal raptors, and
3) Midwest and grassland bird species
Physical Requirements:
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Applicants must be in good physical shape, as surveys will be conducted in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme.
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Field work will entail long hours of standing and observing, sometimes in inclement conditions and walking in varying terrain.
Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and the position will be filled as soon as a suitable applicant is identified.
After an offer of employment is made, thecandidatemust successfully pass a pre-employmentbackground 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.
WEST is proud to provide 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.
Salary : $18 - $24
