Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium size consulting firm with    offices across the United States, is looking for a, temporary full-time Biological Field Technician, near Rawlins, WY and Craig, CO.  

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: $24 - 27/hr DOE
• Hours: Temporary Full-time
• Start date: June 1, 2024
• End date: late August 2024, with possibility of extension
• Location: Near Rawlins, WY and Craig, CO
• Housing stipend: $300/month
• Additional details: GPS units and other field equipment will be provided by WEST. Field technicians must be equipped with suitable footwear (rugged hiking boots), their own pair of professional binoculars, and appropriate clothing suitable to adverse weather conditions. 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 Description:

The primary duties involve:

• Conducting biological field surveys within steep, forested habitat for northern goshawks including broadcast surveys for presence, and intensive nest searching
• Conducting surveys for amphibian species in vernal pools and permanent water features including dip netting and visual encounter surveys of adults, tadpoles, and egg masses
• Fieldwork will require long, physically challenging days in a range of temperatures and wind speeds, sometimes in very remote areas and rugged terrain
• Managing field schedules will require attention to detail, incredible organizational skills, and enthusiasm for regular communication with supervisors
• Safe operation of a four-wheel drive vehicle (ATV) and field truck
• Safely managing hazards typical of the environment (sharp vegetation, biting insects, dust, extreme heat, cold and wind)
• Mandatory attendance at weekly scheduled safety meetings
• Navigation using a compass and Global Positioning System devices.
• Work schedule will be variable based on weather and survey schedule and is expected to average 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime

This a general description of the functions for this position and is not inclusive of all the duties that may be associated with this position.

Requirements:

• Previous experience conducting biological surveys for northern goshawk OR amphibian species is required.
• Candidates must be able to record data correctly and legibly, follow specific study and safety protocols, and trouble-shoot problems in the field.
• Candidates should be able to interact positively and professionally with project manager, field lead, landowners, and other technicians.
• Candidate must be a self-starter, have the ability to appear for work on time, early and long hours, maintain focus for long periods of time, follow instructions from the supervisors, maintain positive attitude, and accept guidance and constructive feedback.
• Candidate must be able to perform duties with limited supervision, both as a team and independently.
• Consistent and effective communication with the team is imperative.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude in varying environmental conditions, including rain, high wind, and very cold or hot temperatures.
• Preferred candidates will have experience operating 4WD vehicles on unimproved roads and in mud or snow conditions. ATV experience is a plus.
• Candidates may encounter snakes, insects, and other wildlife.
• Proficient use of topographic maps, compass, GPS units, and other field equipment required.

Physical Requirements:

• Applicants must be in good physical condition, as surveys will be conducted in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme.
• Candidate must be able to lift heavy equipment (up to 40 lbs).

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.