Job Requirements
- 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 the scent training protocol and virtual training guidance).
- WEST’s Scent Training Program requires the ability to upload videos and notes of training sessions consistently each week throughout the program, completion of stage assessments, and regular communication with a Dog Coordinator.
- Successful completion of odor recognition testing and in-person, double-blind scent detection evaluation trials.
- Conduct ongoing training throughout the season as needed to maintain efficiency, or as directed by a Dog Coordinator.
- Demonstrable knowledge of dog behavior and rewards-based training; knowledge of both learning theory and scent theory is preferred.
- Ability to work independently as well as communicate and coordinate effectively and professionally with crew members, site management, WEST project coordinators, and landowners.
- Must demonstrate safe handling, control, and transportation of your dog(s) at all times.
- Flexibility, a high degree of self-motivation, tolerance for doing repetitive tasks, and an ability to thrive under challenging field conditions.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Biology, or an equivalent degree is preferred; however, candidates without a degree that have suitable dog(s) and experience training, handling, or participating in applicable detection dog work or sports are encouraged to apply.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to walk 5-7 miles a day over uneven terrain in variable weather conditions.
- Ability to maintain a positive attitude during long work days (8-12 hours) in the outdoors.
- Must be comfortable with exposure to hazards typical of the environment (e.g., insects, dense, tall and prickly vegetation, mud, wildlife, unrestrained dogs, livestock, extreme heat and cold, high wind speeds, farming/agricultural activities, and poorly maintained roads).
Minimum Dog Suitability Requirements:
- Physically healthy (i.e. no pre-existing conditions that could interfere with completion of work) 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 (proof required).
- 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.
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