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

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
• Housing: Shared housing will be provided
• Start Date: 10/1/2024
• End Date: 3/15/2025
• Location: Amarillo, TX
• Additional Details:

 Job Summary:

The successful candidate for this position will be:

• Able to work independently with the ability to communicate and coordinate effectively with WEST supervisors and clients, have previous experience with identifying raptors of the Texas Panhandle by sight.
• This position requires prior experience with bird-focused biological work and a high level of bird identification skills. 

 Responsibilities include: 

• Monitoring for bald and golden eagles from stationary survey points using a spotting scope and binoculars
• Initiating curtailment of turbines in the vicinity of eagles
• Post-construction monitoring surveys
• Participation in Carcass Persistence and Searcher Efficiency Trials
• Field and in-hand (via specimen) identification, aging, and sexing of bird species.

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

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or an equivalent degree preferred, but job experience may substitute.
• Preference for biologist experienced in avian use surveys specifically point-count surveys; candidates with higher-level birding skills will be given preference
• Precise and thorough data collection is essential
• Must be able to use compass, global positioning system devices, binoculars, range finders, tablets, and digital cameras; as well as maintain equipment
• Able to work independently or as part of a team, and interact positively with project manager, field supervisor, landowners, and other technicians
• 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 
• Follow all WEST safety protocols
• Training will be provided for all survey efforts and job related activities

Physical Requirements:

• Applicants must be in good physical condition, as surveys will be conducted in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme. Must be tolerant of biting or stinging insects.
• Ability to lift up to 25 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.