Detection Dog Handler

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic environmental and statistical consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada, is looking for temporary, full-time Detection Dog Handlers to train and work with their own suitable dog(s) for wildlife surveys. Handlers and their dog(s) must have at least two years of experience conducting olfactory-based surveys for multiple wildlife target odors.

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: $24 - $30.00/hour, depending on experience
• Dog Compensation: $35/day of field work (to offset routine care/maintenance costs)
• Housing: Housing or rent reimbursement provided for qualifying applicants
• Start Date: Approximately 08/01/25
• End Date: 10/15/25
• Location(s): Stratford, IA; Farmer City IL; Lafayette IN
• Number of positions available: 5
• Additional Details: Vehicle mileage will be reimbursed at federal rate (for use of personal vehicle) or a rental may be provided. Field safety equipment for both the handler and dog will be provided by WEST; handlers must be equipped with their own suitable footwear (rugged, safety toe hiking boots) and field-appropriate clothing. Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies.

Job Summary:

The successful candidate for this position will:

• Survey designated areas for target species as assigned.
• Survey areas beneath wind turbines for bat and bird fatalities with your dog(s) that have been trained and evaluated per WEST standards prior to employment.
• Provide routine care and sound risk management for your dog while working, such as following recommended vaccination protocols, properly using safety equipment, and administering basic first aid under field conditions (the WEST provided dog compensation of $35/day of field work will offset the cost of pet insurance and routine care/maintenance for handlers using their personal dogs).
• Collect data per established protocols.
• Participate in trials to measure sources of bias in surveys.
• Enter data into a tablet or spreadsheet, routinely check for accuracy, and submit to project staff in a timely manner.
• Conduct ongoing training with your dog(s) to ensure effective detection of target odors.
• Be willing to work a flexible schedule that may vary in hours each week, depending on season and project needs.
• Communicate regularly with project coordinators on environmental conditions, safety concerns, data collection, and detection dog training. Complete administrative tasks on a weekly basis, including timesheets and expense reports.
• Be open to opportunities to conduct additional biological surveys in the general area, depending on experience and project needs.

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.