Weights and Measures Inspector/Apprenticeship

State of Montana•Billings, MT

10d•Onsite

About The Position

If you thrive on accuracy, real world problem solving, and serving your community, this apprenticeship lets you turn those strengths into a lasting career safeguarding everyday transactions across the state. As a Weights and Measures Inspector Apprentice, you’ll be on the front lines checking scales, fuel pumps, and measuring devices to ensure every Montanan gets what they pay for and every business competes on a level playing field. Through a structured five level apprenticeship sponsored by the State of Montana, you’ll gain nationally recognized certifications, mentorship from experienced inspectors, and extensive hands on training in the field. Along the way, you’ll build a strong technical skill set, earn increasing responsibility, and open the door to long term advancement within a critical public safety and consumer protection role. The Weights and Measures Program promotes a fair and competitive economic environment by inspecting and certifying weighing and measuring devices used in commerce—from fuel dispensers and truck scales to retail and agricultural equipment. As an apprentice inspector, you will learn to conduct technical inspections, apply state and national standards, and provide education to Montana businesses and consumers. This position supports ESD’s mission to ensure compliance, foster public confidence, and maintain fairness in the marketplace.

Requirements

Technical and regulatory proficiency: Learn, interpret, and apply technical standards, codes, and laws related to weights and measures inspections.
Independent problem solving: Manage field assignments, analyze inspection data, and determine appropriate corrective actions.
Customer and stakeholder communication: Explain complex technical findings clearly, respond to questions, and model professional, service oriented interactions.
Conflict resolution and diplomacy: Address compliance issues with tact and fairness, balancing regulatory enforcement with educational support.
Safety and equipment operation: Drive and handle specialized vehicles and mechanical test equipment safely in varying weather and terrain conditions.
Adaptability and continuous learning: Embrace training, feedback, and evolving technical practices throughout the apprenticeship and beyond.
Collaboration and teamwork: Work cooperatively with field partners and division colleagues to achieve program goals and maintain public trust.
Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply technical standards, codes, or regulations in a compliance, inspection, or quality assurance setting.
Experience explaining or presenting technical information to customers, clients, or the public.
Ability to plan daily work activities and maintain accurate records with minimal supervision.
Comfort operating heavy vehicles or field equipment; eligibility to obtain a Montana Class A or B, Type 1 or 2 Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Fundamental understanding of mathematical principles (including algebra) applied to measurement and calibration.

Nice To Haves

A degree, certificate, or experience in technical trades, science, mathematics, or a related field may supplement professional experience but is not required.
Equivalent combinations of education and related experience will be considered.
Applicants who already hold one or more NCWM or CDL certifications may be placed directly into a higher apprenticeship level.

Responsibilities

Inspect and certify devices: Test, evaluate, and document the accuracy of scales, meters, and measuring equipment used in commercial transactions.
Apply laws and standards: Learn and apply laws, administrative rules, and federal handbooks (Handbooks 44, 130, and 133) governing weights and measures.
Operate specialized equipment: Safely drive and operate large trucks, service vehicles, and precision testing tools across Montana in diverse environments and weather conditions.
Educate and advise stakeholders: Explain inspection results to business owners, service technicians, and consumers, ensuring clear understanding of findings and corrective actions.
Ensure marketplace equity: Identify and correct inaccuracies to protect consumers, promote fair competition, and uphold public confidence.
Manage independent fieldwork: Plan, schedule, and complete inspection assignments with minimal supervision while maintaining clear and detailed records.
Participate in apprenticeship training: Progress through five certification levels by completing structured courses and National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) exams.

Benefits

Being able to enjoy the quality of life in the beautiful state of Montana is one of the benefits you will love about this opportunity!
Our mountains, waterways and open spaces provide not only beautiful scenery but year-round recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, biking, fishing, boating, hunting, skiing and snowmobiling.
Montana boasts a high-quality education system and a variety of entertainment including fairs, rodeos, and theaters.
Work/life balance with hybrid schedules or partial telework may be available within the state of Montana.
38 paid days off a year including vacation, sick leave and holidays.
Military leave: You’ll get up to 15 days of military leave with full pay.
Longevity raises with continuous service, as well as any negotiated market increases and state statutory raises.
Health, dental, vision, life insurance coverage, flexible spending accounts, EAP
Free telehealth and access to free employee medical clinics through our medical plan
Choice between two retirement plans with an employer contribution between 8.73%25 - 9.07%25 of your annual salary. A third optional 457(b) deferred compensation plan is also available.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness- Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive loan forgiveness
Career progression, training opportunities and room for professional growth.
State employee discounts at various businesses across the state.
This position may be eligible for a statutory $1.00 an hour base pay increase effective on July 1, 2026.
This position may be covered by a Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA)