Biologist

Northwestern Energy•Montana, MT

About The Position

The Biologist manages NorthWestern Energy’s Avian Protection Program (APP) and Eagle Protection and Offset Program (EPOP), supports compliance with wildlife-related regulations, and provides wildlife guidance for electric and natural gas facilities and operations. The position is the subject matter expert on the APP, EPOP, Avian Power Line Interaction Committee recommendations, USFWS land-based wind and eagle conservation guidelines, the state sage-grouse program, and other wildlife-related regulations and guidance. It supports wildlife considerations during planning, siting, construction, operation, and maintenance of the company’s generation, transmission, and distribution facilities throughout its service territory, and assists with other Environmental Department functions. The position is based in Butte, Billings, or Bozeman, Montana. It is a regular, full-time role with an annual pay range of $57,200 to $129,000. The role requires the ability to lift at least 50 pounds, a valid driver’s license, and a satisfactory driving record. Candidates must pass the stated pre-employment screening requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biological science, ecology, natural sciences, or a related field; wildlife is preferred.
Five years of related work experience.
Demonstrated knowledge of wildlife behavior and habitat, particularly raptors, sage-grouse, and corvids.
Ability to work effectively with a broad range of professionals, regulatory agency personnel, and public and private stakeholders.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Experience using computerized maintenance management programs and reporting tools.
Valid driver’s license and satisfactory driving record.
Demonstrated commitment to safety policies and procedures, safe work practices, and maintaining a good safety record.
Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
Legally authorized to work in the United States; the employer does not sponsor work visas.
Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen, background check, health history questionnaire, and physical.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in a relevant field.
Wildlife specialization in biological science or a related field.
Knowledge of utility operations, construction practices, and associated interactions with avian resources.
Get Into Energy - Energy Industry Fundamental 2.0 certification.

Responsibilities

Maintain, update, and implement NorthWestern Energy’s Avian Protection Plan.
Oversee and conduct biological studies and reporting required for compliance with state and federal requirements, including SPUT permits and USFWS Injury and Mortality Reporting.
Coordinate Eagle Protection and Offset Program contracts with Asset Management and the offset contractor.
Work with state and federal agencies, tribes, private interests, conservation groups, and the public to understand wildlife issues, establish working relationships, implement the APP, and communicate company activities.
Facilitate technical advisory committees for bird and bat studies supporting wind farm conservation strategies, as needed.
Coordinate internal training for engineers, project managers, linemen, and other key personnel on the APP and wildlife-related issues.
Establish and implement procedures and reporting tools to document wildlife mortality associated with company operations.
Analyze avian mortality reports and animal-caused system outage information to identify high-risk facilities and operations, and recommend responses.
Support electric transmission and distribution standards groups in identifying issues, evaluating materials, and developing avian-safe designs, standards, and strategies.
Support and use NorthWestern Energy’s environmental information management system.
Support due diligence for energy supply projects, including wind farm developments, concerning impacts on birds, bats, other wildlife, and habitats.
Support environmental compliance and permitting activities.
Promote the company’s stewardship efforts related to avian resources.
Monitor and comment on new or updated state and federal laws, rules, and regulations, including tracking emerging issues.
Assist with environmental planning and inspection of construction projects.
Adhere to safety standards and the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, and ensure actions are consistent with company values, mission, and strategic objectives.
Maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.

Benefits

401(k) with up to a 4% company match and up to a 7% non-elective company contribution.
Tuition reimbursement.
Paid time off starting on the first day.
11 paid holidays.
Paid parental leave.
Paid bereavement leave.
Company-paid life insurance, with additional coverage options.
Employee assistance and well-being programs.
Paid volunteer opportunities.
Training and development programs.
Medical insurance.
Dental insurance.
Vision insurance.
Health savings account (HSA) and flexible spending account (FSA) benefits.
Performance-based wage increases and incentive opportunities.