Western EcoSystems Technology (WEST), a dynamic environmental and statistical consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada, is looking for a part-time temporary, Biological Field Technician, in Southern California.   

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: $26-30/ hour, DOE
• Start Date: May 1, 2025 (flexible)
• End Date: October 31, 2025, with possibility for extension
• Location: Southern California. Must be willing to travel to projects in Kern, Riverside, San Bernadino, and Los Angeles Counties
• Additional Details: Biologist must be equipped with and provide own suitable footwear (rugged hiking boots, etc.), clothing, and binoculars. A personal vehicle suitable for field work is strongly recommended/preferred, but a WEST vehicle can be provided. Mileage for personal vehicle use is reimbursed at $0.70 per mile.

Job Summary:

The successful candidate will be:

• An independent, self-motivated individual, with experience working in and with the Mojave Desert communities.
• The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in various (and sometimes extreme) weather conditions and terrain and have a passion for desert ecology.

Responsibilities include:

• Conduct wildlife surveys at pre- and post-construction renewable energy projects
• Survey types may include: Joshua tree census counts, post-construction fatality monitoring, construction monitoring, pre-construction surveys, and/or other duties as assigned.

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

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or an equivalent degree preferred
• Previous experience in biological field studies and/or prior field experience preferred
• Ability to get CDFW approval at the Designated Biologist or Designated Monitor level for desert tortoise, Mohave ground squirrel, and/or burrowing owl preferred, but not required
• Skilled use of topographic maps, compass, GPS units, binoculars, and other field equipment is required
• Must be able to maintain equipment
• must be able to work independently and interact professionally and respectfully with project managers, clients, landowners, and other technicians
• Follow all WEST safety protocols 

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, 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.