Western Ecosystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium size consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada, is looking for a temporary full-time, Biological Field Technician, in New Mexico. 

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: $24-$28 an hour or based on level of experience
• Start date: February 1, 2025
• End date: January 31, 2026
• Location: Central New Mexico (Albuquerque and Santa Rosa areas)
• Additional details: Vehicle will be provided or mileage reimbursed. GPS unit and other field equipment will be provided by WEST; however, field technician must be equipped with and provide own suitable footwear (rugged hiking boots), clothing, and binoculars.

Job Summary:

The successful candidate will be:

• An independent self-motivated individual who is skilled in bird identification and has previous experience conducting avian use surveys
• The ideal candidate will be comfortable working independently, in various (extreme) weather conditions and terrain, and have a passion for the outdoors

Responsibilities include:

• Conducting avian use surveys, eagle nest monitoring, and other seasonal wildlife surveys in central New Mexico
• Managing and maintaining accurate and detailed data collection
• Communicating clearly and effectively with crew lead and field supervisor
• Ability to communicate with landowners and other members of the public
• Ability and willingness to work as a team member and independently 

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
• Must be able to identify birds by sight and sound for species in the Central New Mexico region; candidates experienced in bird identification will be given preference
• Previous experience on biological field studies and/or prior field experience preferred
• 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 crew leader, maintain positive attitude, and accept guidance and constructive criticism. Precise and thorough data collection is essential.
• Skilled use of topographic maps, compass, GPS units, and other field equipment is required
• Must be able to maintain equipment
• Must be able to work independently and interact professionally and respectfully with project managers, clients, landowners, and other technicians
• Must follow all WEST safety protocols 

Physical Requirements:

• Applicants must be in good physical shape, as surveys will be conducted in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme
• Field work will entail long hours of standing and observing, sometimes in inclement conditions
• Occasionally (1-2 days per month) survey work will involve walking up to 6 miles per day.

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.