Engineer/Technical Advisor (Butte, MT Preferred. Open to major office locations in Montana)

Northwestern Energy•Butte, MT

About The Position

The Technical Advisor serves as a subject matter expert and technical lead within the Environmental, Lands, Permitting & Compliance Department, providing engineering, regulatory, and environmental expertise to support the company's capital projects, operations, and long-term asset management. This position plays a critical role in ensuring company projects and activities comply with all applicable environmental regulations, land use requirements, and permitting conditions while advancing the company's commitment to safety, reliability, and environmental stewardship.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Civil, Environmental, Mechanical, or related discipline required; Master's degree preferred).
5+ years of progressively responsible experience in engineering, permitting, or environmental compliance, preferably in the utility or energy sector
Demonstrated experience with federal and state permitting processes (e.g., Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, NEPA)
Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects involving regulatory coordination and technical evaluation
Deep understanding of engineering principles, environmental regulations, and land management practices
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, including technical writing and regulatory correspondence
Ability to build relationships and work collaboratively with regulatory agencies, landowners, and internal stakeholders
High attention to detail and commitment to quality and compliance
Proficiency in engineering and environmental software, GIS applications, and document management systems
Valid drivers license & satisfactory driving record

Nice To Haves

Professional Engineer (P.E.) license strongly preferred.
Get Into Energy - Energy Industry Fundamental 2.0 certification is a plus (click the link to certify at no cost)

Responsibilities

Serve as the company's technical resource on complex environmental liability and permitting projects that may include development of testimony for the Public Service Commissions in multiple states
Provide engineering and technical guidance in the planning, design, and execution of the company's energy development projects with particular focus on air permitting and compliance, and emissions testing and reporting
Interpret and apply environmental regulations, engineering standards, and land management requirements to ensure compliance across utility operations
Conduct or oversee technical studies, assessments, and engineering analyses to support the company's environmental goals
Review and approve technical reports, company publications and other deliverables ensuring accuracy, regulatory compliance, and consistency with company standards
Coordinate with external consultants, contractors, and regulatory agencies to prepare and submit permit applications and reports, conduct site investigations, resolve technical issues and facilitate timely implementation of permit requirements or remediation plans
Provide field support for energy development projects, remediation projects and other environmental permitting projects as required
Partner with project managers, engineers, and environmental specialists to develop permitting strategies and schedules for new construction, maintenance, and infrastructure upgrades as required
Monitor regulatory developments affecting company operations and provide recommendations to management
Serve as liaison with regulatory agencies to help ensure transparent communication and cooperative relationships
Assist with the development and maintenance of compliance tracking systems, documentation standards, and technical reporting protocols
Lead or support internal audits and reviews to verify ongoing compliance with internal and external regulatory and environmental requirements, standards and laws
Provide periodic technical training, mentorship, and guidance to engineering and environmental staff
Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of company and departmental policies, procedures, and best practices
Represent the company on industry working groups, committees, and stakeholder initiatives related to environmental compliance and energy resource development
Ensure all actions are consistent with NorthWestern Energy's values, mission, and strategic business objectives.

Benefits

401K with company match up to 4% and non-elective contribution up to 7%
Healthcare and wellbeing programs, including dental and vision for you, your spouse and dependents, Health Savings Account (HSA), healthcare and dependent care flexible spending account (FSA)
Employee Assistance Programs (Offering up to six free counseling sessions, per person, per issue, per year for employees, spouses and dependents to include financial health)
Life Insurance (Company pays basic employee policy; spouse, dependent insurance also available)
Continuing education reimbursement
Competitive pay (Scheduled performance-based wage increases and annual incentive opportunities.)
Paid company endorsed volunteer opportunities
Paid parental leave
Paid bereavement leave
Paid training opportunities
Paid time off starting on your first day, plus 11 paid holidays
Relocation Benefit: Negotaible
Telecommuting: Part-time Negotiable within NorthWestern Energy Service Territory