Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic environmental and statistical consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada, is looking for a 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: $17.50 - $20.75
• Start Date: April 14, 2025
• End Date: November 15, 2025
• Location: Cresson, PA
• Additional Details: A vehicle will be provided for work completion or mileage reimbursed for personal vehicle use.  Field equipment including a GPS unit, compass, Tablet, and range finder (if necessary) and personal safety gear including a high-visibility vest and hard hat will be provided by WEST. However, technicians must be equipped with and provide their own suitable safety toed footwear (rugged hiking boots, etc.) and field clothing. Successful candidates should either live within 45 min of Cresson, PA (Ex. Altoona, Bedford, Indiana, Johnstown, Hollidaysburg) or be able to relocate.

Primary duties involve:

• Conducting fatality monitoring for bird and bat carcasses beneath operating wind turbines.
• Participation in carcass persistence and searcher efficiency trials
• Identification of bird and bat carcasses to species.
• 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.
• Candidates must be comfortable with hazards typical of the region (fluctuating temperatures, precipitation, dust, wild animal encounters).
• Hours worked are expected to be between 25-35 hours per week and may require overtime.
• Employee must be able to appear for work on time (surveys often begin half an hour after sunrise).
• Candidates must be organized, and able to collect, submit and manage data, including implementing quality control measures following each field survey on a timely basis.
• Job duties require the use of compass, global positioning system devices, range finders, and a Tablet for digital data collection. The technician is expected to maintain equipment in working order.
• Training will be provided for all survey efforts and job-related activities.
• Technicians will be required to follow all safety protocols provided by WEST and the wind energy facility.
• 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, environmental science 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, other field personnel, clients, and landowners.
• Must be able to maintain equipment. Ability to follow protocol is essential.
• Familiarity with the regions bird and bat species and experience using guides and keys for identification is preferred.
• Skilled use of GPS units, topographic maps, compass, and other field equipment is beneficial.
• 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 require several hours of walking per field day and will be conducted in extreme temperatures.

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.