Biological Field Technician

Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or an equivalent degree preferred.
• Previous experience on biological field studies and/or prior field experience preferred.
• Good bird identification skills for species in the region, ability to identify bats in the region, and use of guides and keys for identification are preferred.
• Skilled use of topographic maps, compass, GPS units, and other field equipment is preferred.
• Ownership of a suitable candidate dog (see Minimum Dog Suitability Requirements below) and successful completion of WEST's Scent Training Program for Wildlife Detection Dogs prior to the extension of a formal offer of employment (WEST provides a scent training protocol and virtual training guidance).
• Successful completion of odor recognition testing and in-person, double-blind scent detection evaluation trials; preference for dog and handler teams with experience conducting surveys for live target species.
• Demonstrable knowledge of dog behavior and rewards-based training; knowledge of both learning theory and scent theory is preferred.
• Candidates should have exceptional communication skills and ability to adapt to changing timelines and project needs.
• Candidates must be comfortable operating 4X4 vehicles in potentially rough terrain or less than ideal road conditions.
• Must be able to work independently and interact professionally and respectfully with project managers, clients, landowners, and other technicians.
• Must be able to follow survey and safety protocols, ensure data accuracy, and demonstrate secure and confidential data handling.
• The position requires the ability to appear for work on time and work independently with minimal supervision; to follow instructions from project managers and field supervisors; to interact effectively with coworkers and clients; to maintain a positive attitude; and to accept guidance and constructive criticism.
• Precise and thorough data collection is essential.

Physical Requirements:

• Applicants must be in good physical shape, as surveys will be conducted in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme.
• Comfortable hiking in adverse conditions for long hours.

Minimum Dog Suitability Requirements:

• Physically healthy and of an appropriate age and size to be able to walk/run 10 miles a day over uneven terrain in variable weather and environmental conditions.
• Up-to-date on all locally required vaccines, including rabies.
• Non-brachycephalic
• No bite history
• Demonstrates high level of trainability.

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.