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 temporary, full time Biological Field Technicians in Aberdeen, South 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:
- Compensation : $19.25-$27.00/hour, DOE
- Housing: TBD - furnished apartment or monthly rent reimbursement
- Start Date: March 2025
- End Date : May 2025 (with possibility of extension)
- Location: Aberdeen, South Dakota
- Additional Details: Technician must be equipped with and provide 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 Summary:
Primary duties may involve:
- Conduct ground-based lek survey for prairie grouse during the spring breeding season.
- Assist on standardized avian use points count surveys (audio and visual).
- Opportunity for additional field work 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.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or an equivalent degree preferred.
- Proficient use of topographic maps, compass, and other field equipment is preferred.
- Candidates should have excellent communication skills and ability to adapt to changing timelines and project needs.
- Candidates must be comfortable operating 4X4 vehicles in potentially rough terrain or less than ideal road conditions; experience operating side-by-side is ideal.
- Must be able to work independently and interact professionally and respectfully with project managers, clients, landowners, and other technicians.
- Must be able to follow survey and safety protocols, ensure data accuracy, and demonstrate secure and confidential data handling.
- 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:
- Applicants must be in good physical shape, as surveys will be conducted in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme.
- Field work will entail long hours of standing and observing, sometimes in inclement conditions and walking in varying terrain.
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 : $19 - $27
