Avian Use Technician - (1800)

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, full-time, Avian Use 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.

Key Details:

Compensation: $19 - $22 per hour, DOE
Housing: Reimbursement of up to $1,000/month provided for qualified applicants
Start Date: April or May 2025
End Date: March 31, 2026 (with possibility of extension)
Location: Crittenden and Poinsett counties, Arkansas
Additional Details: GPS units and other field equipment will be provided by WEST. Field technicians must be equipped with professional-grade binoculars, suitable footwear (rugged hiking boots), and appropriate clothing.

Job Summary:

WEST is looking for one candidate to reside in or near Crittenden and Poinsett counties, Arkansas. The primary responsibilities for this position are to conduct avian use surveys for eagles and waterfowl of the region. There is a possibility of helping with other projects in the region. Successful candidates must be able to work in a rural field setting, work well both independently and with others, and follow field and data entry protocols. Previous experience conducting avian surveys is required. Training will be provided. The average workweek will be approximately 20 hours, though there may be weeks requiring shorter or longer hours depending on seasonal objectives and project workloads.

Responsibilities include:

1. Avian surveys for eagles.
2. Breeding bird surveys.
3. Conducting field work in a remote location.
4. Fieldwork will include travel on field roads into project area, field navigation, and observing and recording for avian activity (previous experience preferred).
5. Field conditions will include a range of extremely high and low temperatures and varying high wind speeds.
6. Candidate must be comfortable with hazards typical of the environment (sharp vegetation, driving a four-wheel drive vehicle, dust, extreme heat and cold). Job duties require bird identification and the use of a compass, GPS, paper and electronic map devices.

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:

1. Candidates must be capable of identifying birds, recording data correctly, following study and safety protocols, keeping on schedule, and trouble-shooting problems in the field.
2. Previous experience conducting avian surveys is required.
3. Candidates should be able to interact positively and professionally with project management team, landowners, and other technicians.
4. Employee must be able to appear for work on time (surveys often begin as early as 30 minutes before sunrise), maintain focus for long periods of time, follow instructions from the team leader, maintain positive attitude, and accept guidance and constructive criticism.
5. Consistent communication with the team is imperative.
6. Environmental conditions include working in rain, wind, mud, and very cold or hot temperatures.
7. Candidates may encounter snakes, insects, and other wildlife.
8. Proficient use of topographic maps, compass, GPS units, and other field equipment required.
9. Priority given to applicants with grassland bird ID experience.

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.