Biological Field Technician

About the Company

Western Ecosystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium‑size consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada, is looking for a temporary part‑time Biological Field Technician in Yerington, NV.

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.

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.

• Compensation: $25-32/hour DOE. Eligible for medical, dental, and vision insurance, and 401(k) retirement plan.
• Start Date: Late February – early March 2026.
• End Date: August 2026, with great potential to extend based on available work and applicant interest.
• Location: Yerington, NV.
• Housing: If living in Reno, Fallon, or more than 1.5 hours from Yerington must be willing to travel overnight.
• Vehicle: Use of personal vehicle (high clearance with AWD/4WD ideal but not necessary) is strongly preferred (mileage reimbursement at the federal rate will be provided). If a personal vehicle is not available, a company vehicle/rental may be available for use. PPE, GPS unit, compass, camera, and range finder will be provided by WEST; technician must bring own appropriate field clothing, binoculars, and safety toe boots (steel or plastic).

• Conduct biological clearance surveys and construction monitoring prior to and during the construction of a large, utility‑scale photovoltaic solar facility located approximately one hour away from Yerington, NV.
• Work closely with project construction crews and a Lead Biologist; demonstrate professionalism in conduct during all work.
• Survey state and federally sensitive/listed species, generally before excavation and construction activities.
• Stand long days of continuous walking, sometimes exceeding 10 miles per day, in close proximity to construction crews and other team members.
• Manage hazards typical of the desert environment, including sharp vegetation, extreme temperatures, venomous snakes, dehydration, and operating 4X4 vehicles in rough terrain.
• Work part‑time (25 hours) with opportunities to work full‑time during the spring season.
• Use electronic data collection (tablet data forms) and data management; maintain and care for equipment such as compass, GPS, binoculars, range finders, and tablets.
• Have familiarity with desert ecosystems and common species of plants and wildlife in the region.
• Possess experience with pre‑construction clearance and construction monitoring.
• Receive training for all project‑specific topics.
• Follow WEST and project protocols to stay healthy, safe, and efficient.

• Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, wildlife management, wildlife biology, or equivalent preferred; undergraduates and enthusiastic workers with relevant experience encouraged to apply.
• Ability to work independently and interact professionally and respectfully with project managers, biologists, technicians, clients, and landowners.
• Ability to follow protocol and use GPS units, topographic maps, compass, and other field equipment.
• Flora and fauna identification skills for species in the region; ability to use guides and keys for identification.
• Precise and thorough data collection.
• Positive attitude and willingness to accept guidance and constructive criticism.

• Excellent physical shape; ability to hike 10+ miles per day in all weather conditions (excluding unsafe conditions).

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 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.