Biological Field Technician

Western Eco Systems 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 Biological Field Technician to investigate the impact of wind turbines on bats and birds at operational wind facilities throughout Iowa, starting end of June 2026 through October 31, 2026.

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.

• Compensation: $17.50- $20/hr, DOE
• Completion Bonus: up to $500 upon project completion while in good standing.
• Housing: Local candidates will be given preference; 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, though there may be weeks requiring shorter or longer hours.

• Follow field and data collection protocols.
• Work well independently and as part of a larger team.
• Communicate effectively with all team members including Field Supervisors and Field Coordinators.
• Ability to live and work in a rural setting.
• Knowledge of Midwest bird and bat species is a plus; training will be provided on identification and data collection.
• Conduct surveys independently, but within a larger team of field technicians.

Travel between sites will be required; personal vehicle mileage will be reimbursed or a 4x4 rental will be provided. This position is an excellent way to gain hands‑on field experience collecting scientific data that will be used to assess the impacts of wind turbines on avian species across Iowa.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or an equivalent degree preferred; undergraduates or other enthusiastic workers are encouraged to apply.
• Experience at regional wind projects preferred.
• Experience with macro‑photography, tablet data collection, GPS, compass, and other field equipment preferred.
• Experience using field guides/keys for identification, especially for bird and bat identification within the Central Flyway, preferred.
• 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.
• Ability to arrive on time; start times can be as early as sunrise.
• Off‑road driver training will be provided, including a driving assessment.

• Applicants must be in good physical condition; surveys require walking 7–10 miles a day under challenging temperatures and 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, etc.

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.

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. WEST takes affirmative action to ensure that all individuals are treated fairly, without discrimination, for recruitment, selection, advancement and every other term and privilege associated with employment.