Avian Use Technician

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, part-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: $17.50-19.50 DOE
• Start Date: September 15, 2026
• End Date: March 31. 2027, with possible 12-month extension
• Location: Lee County Arkansas
• Additional Details: Vehicle and data collection tools for work completion and a spotting scope (if necessary) will be provided by WEST. Company vehicles are equipped with telematics systems for safety, operational efficiency, and compliance purposes. Technicians MUST be equipped with and provide suitable quality binoculars (10x42 minimum), footwear, and appropriate clothing.

Job Summary:

Primary responsibility of this position is:

• Conducting fixed-point bird use surveys at a proposed wind energy facility.
  • The job will consist of 8-10 hour days, 12-15 days per month.
• Secondary responsibilities may include other survey types, including bat acoustic detector maintenance, and raptor nest surveys.

The successful candidate for this position will be:

• An experienced birder that has previous experience identifying midwestern bird species by sight and sound, with an emphasis on eagle and raptor identification.
  • Prior experience conducting standardized point counts is highly preferred.
• Candidates must be able to work independently and coordinate effectively with WEST supervisors.
• Candidates must be capable of recording data correctly, following study and safety protocols, keeping on schedule, and trouble-shooting problems in the field.
• Strong written and oral communication skills and the ability to complete datasheets accurately and submit data timely and regularly is required.
• Training will be provided for all survey efforts and job-related activities.
• Candidate must be comfortable with hazards typical of outdoor work (driving a four-wheel drive vehicle, dust, extreme heat and cold).
• Candidate should live in or be willing to relocate to within 1.5 hours of the project location

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 follow all WEST safety protocols and conduct field work with safety as top priority
• Experience conducting avian use point count surveys preferred
• Must be proficient in identification by sight and sound of
  • 1) eagles (all species and age classes),
  • 2) diurnal raptors, and
  • 3) midwestern bird species
• Precise and thorough data collection is essential
• Should be able to use, care for and maintain field equipment including work vehicle
• Able to work independently and as part of a team, and interact positively with project manager, field supervisor, landowners, and other technicians
• Able to appear for work on time, with surveys beginning at sunrise, and maintain focus for long periods of time
• Be flexible and able to maintain a positive attitude in adverse conditions

Physical Requirements:

• Applicants must be in good physical condition, able stand or walk for up to 12 hours per day and carry up to 30 lbs. over uneven terrain
• Candidate must be comfortable with hazards typical of outdoor work (driving a four-wheel drive vehicle, dust, extreme heat and cold).

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.