Biological Field Technician – (1827)

Western EcoSystems Technology (WEST) is hiring temporary Biological Field Technicians for fieldwork in Iowa and Minnesota, focusing on monitoring bird and bat fatalities at wind turbines. The role requires outdoor work in various weather conditions and involves the use of field equipment. Candidates should have a degree in natural resources or related fields, strong identification skills, and the ability to work independently. Housing is provided for non-local hires.
Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic environmental and statistical consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada, is looking for temporary, full-time, Biological Field Technicians.

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: $20-22/hour, depending on experience
• Housing: Housing will be provided for non-local candidates
• Start Date: June 23, 2025
• End Date: October 15, 2025
• Location: North-Central Iowa, Northwest Iowa, and South-Central Minnesota
• Additional Details: A vehicle will be provided for work completion or mileage reimbursed for personal vehicle use. GPS unit, compass, camera, and range finder (if necessary) will be provided by WEST; however, technician must be equipped with and provide own suitable safety toed footwear (rugged hiking boots, etc.), clothing, and binoculars.

Job Description:

Primary duties involve:
• Conducting fatality monitoring for bird and bat fatalities beneath operating wind turbines
• Fieldwork will require long days in a range of temperatures and wind speeds.
• Fatality monitoring will entail long hours of walking, sometimes in inclement conditions.
• Candidate must be comfortable with hazards typical of the environment (sharp vegetation, driving a four-wheel drive vehicle, dust, extreme heat and cold).
• Hours worked are between 30-40 hours per week and may require overtime.
• Job duties require use of compass, global positioning system devices, binoculars, range finders, and digital cameras as well as the ability to maintain equipment.
• Training will be provided for all survey efforts and job-related activities.
• Technicians will be required to follow all safety protocols for WEST and the wind energy facilities.
• Technicians will be expected to use good judgment to stay safe and work efficiently.

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:
• Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, wildlife management, wildlife biology or equivalent degree preferred; however, undergraduates and enthusiastic workers are encouraged to apply.
• Must be able to work independently and interact professionally and respectfully with project managers, biologists, technicians, clients, and landowners.
• Must be able to maintain equipment. Ability to follow protocol is essential.
• Good bat and bird identification skills for species in the region, and use of guides and keys for identification are preferred.
• Skilled use of GPS units, topographic maps, compass, and other field equipment is required.
• Job requires the person filling this position to be able to appear for work on time; follow instructions from project managers and field supervisors; interact effectively with coworkers and clients; maintain a positive attitude; and accept guidance and constructive criticism.
• Precise and thorough data collection is essential.

Physical Requirements:
• Applicants must be in good physical shape, as surveys will be conducted in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme.
• Hike in adverse conditions for long hours

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.