Biological Field Technician

WEST Inc is hiring a temporary Biological Field Technician in Boardman, OR, with a pay range of $21-$25/hour. The role involves conducting surveys for Washington ground squirrels and rare plant species, requiring physical stamina for long days in varied conditions. Candidates should have a degree in natural resources or related fields and be comfortable with outdoor hazards. Housing and transportation are provided, and training will be given.
Job Title

Biological Field Technician

Salary

21.00 – 25.00

Job Classification

Hourly

Location

Boardman, OR 97818 US (Primary)

Job Type

Temporary

# of Hires Needed

1

Job Description

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium size consulting firm with offices across the United States, 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.

Key Details:
• Compensation: $21- $25/hour, DOE
• Start date: May 12, 2025
• End date: July 18, 2025
• Location: Boardman, Oregon
• Additional details: Housing will be provided. A vehicle will be provided or mileage reimbursed. GPS units and other field equipment will be provided by WEST; however, field technicians must be equipped with suitable footwear (rugged hiking boots).

Job Description:

Primary duties involve:
• Conduct surveys for Washington ground squirrels by walking transects and locating burrow entrances.
• Conduct surveys for several rare plant species depending on prior botanical survey experience.
• Fieldwork will require long days in a wide variety of conditions (300 – 100° F).
• Candidate must be comfortable with hazards typical of the environment (walking on uneven and sloped terrain, sharp vegetation, wind, dust, extreme heat and cold).
• Job duties require use of compass, range-finder, tablet, and Global Positioning System devices, and operation of a four-wheel drive vehicle.
• Training will be provided.
• An average workweek will include 40 hours, though may require shorter or longer hours some weeks, depending on the weather, project, and seasonal workloads.

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 equivalent degree preferred.
• Able to walk long distances (6-9 miles per day) and able to work independently or with a crew member and interact positively with project manager, field supervisor, and other coworkers.
• Preference will be given to individuals with prior experience conducting surveys for Washington ground squirrels and other Oregon special-status wildlife or plant species.
• Employee must be able to appear for work on time (surveys often begin as early as sunrise); maintain focus for long periods of time; follow instructions from manager and team leader; maintain positive attitude; and accept guidance and constructive criticism. Precise and thorough data collection is essential.

Physical Requirements:
• Applicants must be in good physical condition, as surveys will require walking /hiking up to 9 miles each day over uneven terrain, and surveys will be conducted in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme. Surveyors may encounter snakes, insects, and other wildlife.

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.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Salary Grade

Exemption Type

Non-Exempt

Application Deadline