Bumble Bee Field Technician

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, Biological Field 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.

Please click here to see what benefits WEST offers!

Key Details:

• Compensation : $18-$20/hr
• Start Date: April 1, 2025 (some flexibility)
• End Date : June 13, 2025 (some flexibility)
• Location: Lake County, IL Applicant must be willing to live in Lake County or within a 60-minute drive to the facility.
• Additional Details: Housing is not provided. WEST will provide equipment and materials necessary for data collection. The field technician must be equipped with suitable footwear for working off-trail on uneven terrain and own appropriate field clothing.

Job Summary:

This position will primarily work alongside Lake County Forest Preserve District staff and other Field Biologist bumble bee technicians to complete surveys. These surveys will include searching for bumble bees including threatened and endangered species such as rusty patched bumble bee (Bombus affinis) and recording habitat and plant attributes. Opportunities for teamwork and leadership are inherent in this position.

The primary duties involve:

• Conducting standardized bumble bee observation surveys including identification of plant species visited by bumble bees at sites in the Lake County Forest Preserve District.
• Data collection using detailed paper and/or electronic datasheets
• Effective communication regarding scope and schedule of work performed
• Fieldwork will require long, physically challenging days in a range of temperatures, winds, and humidity. Field biologists will often walk between 1 and 5 miles in one day.
• Safe operation of a field truck
• Safely managing hazards typical of the environment (e.g., sharp/noxious vegetation, biting and stinging insects, dust, extreme heat and humidity, cold and wind)
• Work schedule will be variable based on weather; survey schedule; and is expected to average 40 hours per week

This is a general description of the functions for this position and is not inclusive of all the duties which may be associated with this position.