Research Biologist-Dog Detection - 443
Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST) a dynamic medium size consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada. We are looking for a full-time Research Biologist located in Golden Valley, MN or Bloomington, IN to help grow our detection dog program. 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.
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.
Job Description:
Do you enjoy field work and working with your dog? WEST is growing our detection dog services, and this is an exciting opportunity to join our team and become a part of important wildlife research.
Responsibilities include:
- Evaluating and overseeing training of detection dog/handler teams for post-construction mortality monitoring surveys at wind and solar projects
- Conducting field work using detection dogs, including post-construction mortality monitoring surveys at wind and solar projects
- Managing field work at multiple projects, with multiple technicians
- Field surveys for birds, bats, and other species
- Habitat assessments and surveys for rare species
- Serving as field supervisor for various wildlife surveys
- Report preparation, data analysis and management
- Promoting WEST’s research through publication in scientific journals, giving presentations at conferences, and supporting business development activities
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
The Research Biologist we are seeking has a great opportunity to help WEST take the next step in our growth as a full service environmental consulting firm. The successful candidate must be a self-starter who possesses:
- Ownership of a working dog with previous detection experience, or ownership of a dog suitable for training for scent work.
- Prior experience using detection dogs for wildlife surveys, and training detection dogs
- Candidates with demonstrable knowledge of dog behavior, reward-based training and communication is desired
- Master’s Degree in wildlife biology, or Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field combined with significant field experience
- Experience designing and implementing wildlife studies
- Strong verbal and writing skills
- Experience supervising employees
- Ability to travel for field work
- The ability to follow instructions from managers; interact effectively with coworkers, clients, and agencies; and be able to accept guidance and constructive criticism
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, and the terrain can be uneven.
- Technicians must be equipped with and provide own suitable safety toed footwear (rugged hiking boots, etc.) and clothing.
Join WEST and you will discover a company comprised of dedicated employees, many of which have been part of the WEST family for over a decade. WEST is an employee owned organization with a tradition of professional integrity dedicated to a family atmosphere and a diverse workforce.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary and bonus structure
- Paid vacation, sick leave and holidays
- Comprehensive Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
- SEP IRA (100% employer contributions)
- Life insurance, Long Term Disability and AD&D
- Shareholder potential
- Flexibility
- Employee owned
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.