Customer Associate

Northwestern Energy • Helena, MT

6d • $18 - $26

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 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 position considers available resources, constraints, and organizational values when committing to satisfy customer needs and resolve issues. It also supports local operational and administrative processes, including payroll, accounts payable, construction-related service orders, and SAP data entry. Regular, reliable, and punctual attendance is an essential function. This is a regular full-time position located in Helena, Montana.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Demonstrate and maintain a good safety record.
• Proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite and other computer applications.
• Excellent attendance record.
• Valid driver's license and satisfactory driving record.

Nice To Haves

• Get Into Energy - Energy Industry Fundamental 2.0 certification.

Responsibilities

• Accept customer payments and post them on the same day.
• Balance the cash drawer daily and make bank deposits.
• Enter and complete service orders.
• Meet or exceed 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 to determine customer payments and other account-related activities.
• Assist customers using established policies and procedures and respond professionally and positively 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 customers 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 the new construction process 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 appropriately 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 the stated 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.
• Competitive medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Health savings account (HSA) and flexible spending account (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