Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium size consulting firm with offices across the United States, is looking for three (3) temporary, full-time Field Technicians to complete dawn surveys for grassland birds, such as grasshopper sparrows and upland sandpipers, as well as forest raptor species such as accipiters, at locations near the town of Waterville in New York.

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:

• Project Length: May 15, 2024 – July 30, 2024
• Compensation: $21.00-24.75/hr DOE
• Location: (3) Waterville, NY
• Schedule: Up to five survey days per week (apx. 30 hours per week) for 15 weeks
• Additional Details: Technicians will have the option to use a work vehicle provided by WEST or use their own reliable transportation to and from the work site and be reimbursed mileage at the current federal standard rate. A housing reimbursement may be available to qualified non-local applicants.

Job Description:
The successful candidates for this position will be able to work independently and communicate and coordinate effectively with WEST supervisors and clients; have experience working in various weather conditions; be able to identify avian species by sight and by vocalizations. Monitor for and stringently document grassland bird presence and breeding activity. Follow protocols to collect and submit data, map nests, and describe behaviors.

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:

• Candidate should be a passionate birder, and demonstrated experience identifying eastern grassland bird species and forest raptor species by sight and sound is required
• Previous experience conducting avian surveys, and experience with point counts, raptor nests surveys, or targeted surveys for plant and animal species is a preferred
• Previous experience conducting avian surveys, and experience with point counts, raptor nests surveys, or targeted surveys for plant and animal species is a preferred
• Must live within approximately an hour drive of Waterville, NY or be willing to relocate for the field season.  Some housing costs may be reimbursed depending on budget availability.
• Skilled use of topographic maps, cellular mapping applications, and other field equipment is required
• Must be able to work alone in the field and be able to appear for work on time (surveys begin before sunrise), maintain focus for long periods of time, and interact effectively with project managers, clients, landowners, and others.
• Must be able to cope with changing temperatures
• Must be equipped with and provide own suitable footwear (hiking boots), binoculars, and proper clothing for changing weather conditions
• Precise and thorough data collection and submission is essential.
• Follow all WEST and client safety protocols

After an offer of employment is made, the candidate must successfully pass a pre-employment background 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.