Biological Field Technician
Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium size consulting firm with offices across the United States, is looking for 5 full-time temporary Biological Field Technician in various counties of Iowa.
Since 1990, WEST has grown to be one of the premier environmental and statistical consulting firms in the United States. WEST has a permanent core of professionals with broad experience in basic and applied ecological studies and the sophisticated analysis of natural resource data.
Job Summary:
The successful candidate for this position will be able to work independently as well as in team settings with the ability to communicate and coordinate effectively with a crew lead and team members. The ideal candidate will have previous field experience and be skilled in identifying regional birds and bats by sight, and have had experience working in extreme weather conditions and navigating rough terrain.
Responsibilities include:
• Search designated plots beneath wind turbines for bat and bird fatalities
• Collect data to measure sources of bias in fatality estimation
• There may be limited opportunities to conduct additional biological surveys
This a general description of the functions for this position and is not inclusive of all the duties which may be associated with this position
Project Length: March 9 – November 20, 2020
Schedule: Full-time with some scheduling flexibility
Compensation: $13.50-16.00 per hour, DOE
Housing: Rent reimbursement may be provided to qualifying technicians
Additional Details: Travel between sites will be required; Vehicles will be provided for work completion or mileage reimbursed for personal vehicle use
Requirements:
• Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or an equivalent degree preferred
• Candidates with previous experience with in-field experience with regional wind projects will be given preference
• Experience with macro-photography, bat and bird identification for species in the region, and guides and keys for identification 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
• Job requires the person filling this position to be able to appear for work on time; start times can often start as early as sunrise
Physical Requirements:
• Applicants must be in good physical condition, as 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, and binoculars (at least 10x42)
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 will be required. Candidates must adhere to all health and safety requirements.
WEST is an employee owned organization with a tradition of professional integrity dedicated to a family atmosphere and a diverse workforce.
Key Benefits:
• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive Medical (if working 30 or more hours a week)
• SEP/IRA (100% employer contributions, after initial eligibility requirements are met)
WEST provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, gender identify, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status or 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.