Biological Field 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: $21-$24.25
• Housing: Shared housing in a furnished home (Airbnb or similar)
• Start Date: ASAP
• End Date: 5/15/2026
• Location: Edgeley, North Dakota
• Additional Details: Vehicle will be provided or mileage reimbursed. GPS units and other field equipment will be provided by WEST; however, field technicians must be equipped with suitable footwear (rugged hiking boots).

Job Description:
Primary duties involved:

• Conducting prairie grouse lek surveys (audio and visual) during early morning hours using ArcGIS FieldMaps application.
• Collection of data on paper datasheets and prompt delivery of datasheets to field coordinator.
• Roads on the study site are unimproved and require advanced field navigation and use of four-wheel drive vehicles. Candidates may be required to use traction devices in snow/mud (e.g., chains, trac-grabbers, traction boards).
• Position will consist of approximately 4 to 5-hour days, approximately 20-35 hours per week depending on weather; additional hours may be available if applicant has bird identification skills.
• Field conditions will include a wide range of extreme high and low temperatures and varying wind speeds.
• Upland bird identification skills and use of a compass, GPS, paper datasheets, tablets and other electronic devices for navigation and data collection.

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 or equivalent degree preferred.
• Candidates experienced in field bird identification will be given preference.
• Employee must be able to appear for work on time (surveys often begin as early as before sunrise) ; Maintain focus for long periods of time; Follow instructions from manager and team leader; Maintain positive attitude; And accept guidance and constructive criticism. Precise and thorough data collection is essential.
• Previous experience with biological field studies and/or prior field experience preferred.
• Skilled use of topographic maps, compass, GPS units, and other field equipment 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; experience operating side-by-side is ideal.
• 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.

Physical Requirements:

• Applicants must be in good physical condition, as surveys will be conducted in locations where temperatures and conditions can be extreme.

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.