Eagle Field Technician

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. is hiring Eagle Field Technicians for a full-time, temporary role in Columbus, MT, offering $21.00–$22.50 per hour. The position involves monitoring eagle activity at a wind energy facility, requiring a Bachelor's degree in wildlife biology or related fields. Technicians will work independently in the field, with overtime pay available. Local applicants preferred, but housing reimbursement is offered for non-locals.
Position Overview

Salary/Compensation: $21.00–$22.50 per hour, DOE
Application Deadline: 05/23/2025
Starting Date: after 06/15/2025
Ending Date: after 08/31/2025
Hours per Week: 40–50
Education Required: Bachelors
Experience Required: none

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST) is seeking full-time, temporary Eagle Field Technicians to support eagle activity monitoring at an operational wind energy facility near Columbus, Montana. This is an exciting field opportunity for early-career wildlife professionals or recent graduates looking to apply their bird ID skills in applied research.

Description

WEST is a nationally recognized environmental consulting firm with expertise in ecological studies and natural resource data analysis. This position contributes to a collaborative monitoring project evaluating eagle interactions with wind turbines. The role requires independent fieldwork in variable and sometimes extreme weather conditions.

Technicians will receive overtime compensation for hours exceeding 40 per week. Local applicants are preferred, but housing reimbursement is available for qualified non-local hires. A rental vehicle will be provided or mileage reimbursed for use of a personal vehicle.

Responsibilities
• Monitor eagle activity at a wind energy facility
• Identify eagles in flight and map movement patterns
• Record behavioral observations and environmental data
• Communicate potential eagle interactions to wind farm operators
• Follow established protocols for data collection and turbine curtailment
• Upload and manage data entries electronically

Minimum Requirements
• Bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, natural resources, or related field preferred
• Ability to identify perched and in-flight raptors, especially eagles
• Strong observation and data recording skills
• Must have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• Willingness to work long hours independently in field conditions
• Proficient with GPS units, maps, and field navigation
• Personal binoculars and appropriate field gear required

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience in raptor surveys or eagle behavior monitoring
• Strong communication skills with teams and clients
• Detail-oriented and highly organized
• Comfortable with extended observation from fixed positions

Additional Notes
• Full-time seasonal role with potential for extension
• Safety and driving background checks required
• Time-and-a-half overtime pay included
• WEST is an equal opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce

How to Apply

Apply online at: https://west-inc.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/Posting/view/1817
Contact:
Shae Buettner
sbuettner@west-inc.com (preferred contact method)
307-289-0396