Detection Dog Handlers

Western EcoSystems Technology Inc. (WEST) a dynamic environmental and statistical consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada. We are looking for temporary part-time Detection Dog Handlers to train and work with their own suitable dog(s) to monitor the impact of wind turbines on wildlife. Experienced field technicians with a dog(s) appropriate for scent detection training as well as those with appropriate dog(s) and experience training for or participating in nosework tracking hunting or field trials are encouraged to apply.

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/hour depending on experience
• Dog Compensation: $35/day of dog field work
• Housing: Housing or rent reimbursement provided for qualifying applicants
• Start Date: Approximately 03/15/26 or 04/01/26
• End Date: 10/31/26 or 11/15/26
• Location(s): Austin MN and Fond du Lac WI
• Additional Details: Vehicle mileage will be reimbursed at the federal rate (for use of personal vehicle) or a rental vehicle plus gas reimbursement 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 (e.g. steel or composite toe rugged hiking boots) and field-appropriate clothing. Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies (proof required).

Job Summary:

Does your high-drive dog need a job Are you interested in strengthening the bond between you and your dog while you train and work together to help with important wildlife research and conservation This is an exciting opportunity to join WESTs detection dog team and get started in conservation detection dog work. The successful candidate for this position will:

• Follow WESTs Scent Training Program for Conservation Detection Dogs to train their dog to WEST standards with guidance from a WEST Detection Dog Coordinator; standard benchmarks including field evaluations must be met as part of employment conditions (details below)
• Survey areas beneath wind turbines for bat and bird carcasses with their trained and evaluated dog.
• Provide routine care and sound risk management for their dog while working such as following a vaccination protocol properly using equipment and administering basic first aid under field conditions; WEST provided dog compensation is intended to offset the cost of pet insurance and routine care/maintenance.
• Collect biological data on bat and bird carcasses per established protocols.
• Participate in trials to measure sources of bias in estimating bat and bird fatalities.
• Enter data into a tablet or spreadsheet routinely check for accuracy and submit to project staff in a timely manner.
• Conduct ongoing training with their dog to ensure continued effective detection of bat and bird carcasses.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule that may vary in hours each week depending on the season and project needs.
• Communicate regularly with project coordinators on environmental conditions safety concerns data collection and detection dog training and safety. Complete administrative tasks on a weekly basis including timesheets and expense reports.
• Be open to opportunities to conduct additional biological surveys in the same location 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.

Job Requirements:

• Ownership of a suitable candidate dog (see Minimum Dog Suitability Requirements below) and successful completion of WESTs Scent Training Program for Wildlife Detection Dogs prior to the extension of a formal offer of employment (WEST provides the scent training protocol and virtual training guidance).
• WESTs Scent Training Program requires the ability to upload videos and notes of training sessions consistently each week throughout the program completion of stage assessments and regular communication with a Dog Coordinator.
• Successful completion of odor recognition testing and in-person double-blind scent detection evaluation trials.
• Conduct ongoing training throughout the season as needed to maintain efficiency or as directed by a Dog Coordinator.
• Demonstrable knowledge of dog behavior and rewards-based training; knowledge of both learning theory and scent theory is preferred.
• Ability to work independently as well as communicate and coordinateeffectively and professionally with crew members site management WEST project coordinators and landowners.
• Must demonstrate safe handling control and transportation of your dog(s) at all times.
• Flexibility a high degree of self-motivation tolerance for doing repetitive tasks and an ability to thrive under challenging field conditions.
• Bachelors Degree in Natural Resources Wildlife Management Biology or an equivalent degree is preferred; however candidates without a degree that have suitable dog(s) and experience training handling or participating in applicable detection dog work or sports are encouraged to apply.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to walk 5-7 miles a day over uneven terrain in variable weather conditions.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude during long workdays (8-12 hours) in the outdoors.
• Must be comfortable with exposure to hazards typical of the environment (e.g. insects dense tall and prickly vegetation mud wildlife unrestrained dogs livestock extreme heat and cold high wind speeds farming/agricultural activities and poorly maintained roads).

Minimum Dog Suitability Requirements:

• Physically healthy (i.e. no pre-existing conditions that could interfere with completion of work) and of an appropriate age and size to be able to walk/run 10 miles a day over uneven terrain in variable weather and environmental conditions.
• Up-to-date on all locally required vaccines including rabies (proof required).
• Non-brachycephalic
• No bite history
• Demonstrates high level of trainability

After an offer of employment is made thecandidatemust successfully pass a pre-employmentbackground checkdrug screeningand a DMV records check that meets WESTs minimum criteria to operate a motor vehicle on behalf of the company. A valid drivers license will be required. Candidates must adhere to all health and safety requirements.

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 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.