Project Coordinator- Biological Services

Biological Field Technician (Temporary)

Western Eco Systems Technology, Inc. (WEST) is seeking 33 full‑time temporary Biological Field Technicians to investigate the impact of wind turbines on bats and birds at operational wind facilities throughout Iowa. The project runs from July 9, 2026, through October 31, 2026.

Please  to see what benefits WEST offers!

• Compensation
  : $17.50–$20 per hour, DOE
• Completion Bonus
  :
  Up to $500 upon project completion while in good standing
• Housing
  :
  Preference for local candidates; shared housing or rent reimbursement may be provided to qualifying applicants
• Start Date
  :
  July 9, 2026
• End Date
  :
  October 31, 2026
• Location
  :
  Calhoun and Pocahontas Counties, IA

Biological field technicians will conduct standardized searches beneath wind turbines to locate and document bird and bat fatalities. An average work week may include 30–40 hours for full‑time temporary employees, with some weeks requiring fewer or more hours.

• Conduct field work while adhering to WEST standards and client field safety requirements.
• Perform standardized fatality searches and follow electronic and paper data collection protocols.
• Collect data to measure potential sources of bias in fatality surveys.
• Potential opportunities to conduct additional biological surveys.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or an equivalent degree preferred; undergraduates or enthusiastic workers are encouraged to apply.
• Candidates with field experience at regional wind projects will be given preference.
• Experience with macro-photography, tablet data collection, GPS units, compass, and other field equipment is preferred.
• Experience using field guides/keys for identification, especially for bird and bat species within the Central Flyway, is preferred.
• Must be organized and able to collect and manage electronic data, including implementing quality control measures.
• Must work independently and interact professionally and respectfully with project managers, biologists, technicians, clients, and landowners.
• Applicants must be punctual; start times can often be as early as sunrise.
• Off‑road driver training will be provided, including a driving assessment.

• Applicants must be in good physical condition; surveys may require walking 7–10 miles a day under various weather conditions.
• Applicants must be able to safely open and close gates weighing 40+ pounds.
• Must provide own suitable safety‑toed footwear (steel‑ or composite‑toe), binoculars, clothing, water bottles, and other necessary gear.

Travel between sites will be required; personal vehicle use will be reimbursed for mileage or a 4×4 rental vehicle will be provided. This position offers hands‑on field experience collecting scientific data that will be used to assess the impacts of wind turbines on avian species across Iowa.

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. A valid driver’s license will be required.

WEST provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of 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. 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.