Customer Associate

Northwestern Energy • Helena, MT

4d

About The Position

The Customer Associate is a dedicated, customer-focused professional who communicates directly with customers, serves as a point of contact, and responds to a variety of needs and requests. The role provides service and resolves inquiries related to billing, service disruptions, account management, construction processes, and general utility service information. The associate considers available resources, constraints, and organizational values when resolving customer issues.

The position provides responsive, accurate customer service across billing, payments, service orders, credit administration, construction support, and general utility inquiries. It uses established policies, procedures, and computer systems to resolve customer needs, protect confidential information, and support local operations and cross-functional business processes. The role is based in Helena, Montana, and is regular full-time.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Demonstrate and maintain a good safety record.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and other computer applications.
• Excellent attendance record.
• Valid driver's license and satisfactory driving record.
• Successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
• Be legally authorized to work in the United States; the company does not sponsor work visas for this position.

Nice To Haves

• Get Into Energy - Energy Industry Fundamental 2.0 certification.

Responsibilities

• Accept customer payments, post them on the same day, balance the cash drawer daily, and make bank deposits.
• Enter and complete service orders.
• Meet or exceed company performance standards, including time spent at the workstation and engaged in customer interactions.
• Explain rate changes and bill calculations as necessary.
• Administer the credit program within the prescribed scope.
• Listen and respond appropriately to customer needs while reviewing and entering data on a computer.
• Type memos, emails, and other correspondence accurately and in a timely manner.
• Respond professionally and accurately to emergency situations by following established policies and procedures.
• Perform calculations for customer payments and other account-related activities.
• Assist customers using established policies and procedures, and respond positively and professionally to complaints or inquiries.
• Work effectively in a team and near teammates.
• Work regularly scheduled shifts, with occasional weekend, evening, or holiday callouts in response to emergencies.
• Maintain the confidentiality of customer and other confidential information.
• Ensure proper entry of union payroll for biweekly processing.
• Ensure proper coding and processing of purchase card transactions and accounts payable invoices.
• Support new construction through administrative SAP functions, payment processing, and service order creation.
• Assist customers with local permitting requirements and basic construction standards.
• Support local operations with SAP notification processing and other data entry as required.
• Respond to internal requests and work across business units to uphold processes and procedures.
• Analyze and prioritize workload to meet customer and business needs in a timely and appropriate manner.
• Adhere to NorthWestern Energy safety standards and the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics.
• Ensure actions are consistent with Bright Horizon Energy's values, mission, and strategic business objectives.
• Maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.
• Perform other duties and functions as appropriate.

Benefits

• Competitive pay with performance-based wage increases and incentive opportunities.
• 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 and 11 paid holidays.
• Paid parental and bereavement leave.
• Company-paid life insurance with additional coverage options.
• Employee assistance and well-being programs.
• Paid volunteer opportunities.
• Training and development programs.
• Medical, dental, vision, HSA, and FSA benefits for employees and eligible dependents.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED