Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium-size environmental consulting firm with offices in 13 states, is looking for a full-time experienced individual as our new Biological Field Services – Consulting Biologist focused on wind energy projects in our Golden Valley, MN office.

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.

The Golden Valley office is located just minutes west of downtown Minneapolis in the heart of a commercial district along Highway 55 with access to a range of food and service options. The office is situated on a regional bike trail, has access to Metro Transit busing routes, and has free surface parking. The office is growing and currently consists of approximately 20 full-time staff. The office hosts frequent group gatherings and outings to connect and maintain a positive and engaging work culture.

Please clickhere to see what benefits WEST offers!

The minimum base salary for this position is $66,000 and the maximum salary is $107,000, plus additional annual profit-sharing bonus potential. Salary may vary based on education, knowledge, and experience.

Job Description:

The position will support wind energy clients with managing projects related to wildlife and wind energy project interactions. The position requires prior experience in environmental consulting, specifically supporting or managing projects navigating the Land-Based Wind Energy Guidelines (WEG). Responsibilities include managing natural resource field work and technical studies associated with avian species (i.e., avian use, raptors and eagle nest surveys) and bats for renewable energy projects (primarily wind projects, some solar). The position requires experience supporting applications for federal, state, and local permits and writing and reviewing environmental survey reports. Candidates will be responsible for managing natural resource fieldwork, teams of technical field staff, technical reports, agency coordination, and regulatory compliance documents for renewable energy projects and the energy industry. A strong understanding of natural resource issues (avian, terrestrial, and aquatic) is preferred. A key capability will be demonstrated ability to oversee, train and mentor staff. The candidate is expected to have an initial focus on the Midwest region of the U.S. 

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 and Preferred Skills/Abilities:

The successful candidate will join WEST as a full-time regular Consulting Biologist, depending on experience and skillset, and will be a motivated self-starter who possesses:

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in biological studies, natural resources, wildlife management, wildlife biology, or equivalent.
• Previous environmental consulting experience (5 years) with project experience including managing budgets, applying avian/bat scientific expertise, proposal writing, and team coordination.
• Previous professional experience in environmental consulting the following are desired:
  • Managing projects and field efforts compliant with the WEG.
  • Managing and conducting biological field studies involving avian use surveys, raptor nest surveys, eagle nest surveys.
  • Experience with a broad suite of environmental regulatory compliance processes (Land-Based WEG, Endangered Species Act, Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, Clean Water Act, National Environmental Policy Act) and state routing and permitting processes for proposed renewable energy projects.
• Track record of maintaining positive relationships with coworkers, clients, and project stakeholders.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including attention to detail in writing, and experience writing and editing reports.
• Strong time management, project task coordination and leadership, and organizational skills with the ability to work well under time constraints and meet deliverable targets and deadlines.
• Ability to follow instructions from managers and accept guidance and constructive feedback from colleagues and supervisors.
• Demonstrated regular and reliable work attendance.
• Ability to maintain flexible work hours and adhere to company policies.

After an offer of employment is made, the candidate(s) must be able to pass a background check; a pre-employment drug screen; 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. 

WEST is proud to provide 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.