Biologist

External candidates apply at northwesternenergy.com

Internal candidates apply through iConnect.

Job Specifications

The Biologist manages NorthWestern Energy's Avian Protection Program and Eagle Protection and Offset Program and supports compliance with wildlife-related regulations. This position provides wildlife-related guidance for electric and natural gas facilities and operations and assists with other Environmental Department functions.

Position Summary

This position is primarily responsible for NorthWestern Energy's Avian Protection Program ensuring compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, Endangered Species Act and appropriate state and federal wildlife regulations throughout our service territory as well as management of the Eagle Protection and Offset Program (EPOP). The biologist is the subject matter expert on the Avian Protection Plan (APP), EPOP, Avian Power Line Interaction Committee (APLIC) recommendations, USFWS Land Based Wind Energy Guidelines, USFWS Eagle Conservation Guidelines, state sage-grouse program and other wildlife-related regulations, guidance documents or issues. The biologist provides guidance and support on wildlife-related issues associated with the planning, siting, construction, operation, and maintenance of NorthWestern Energy's electric and natural gas generation, transmission, and distribution facilities and operations throughout its service territory. The biologist will also assist with other functions in the Environmental Department.

Pay Range: $57,200 to $129,000 per year

Location: Butte, Billings or Bozeman, MT

Essential Functions

• Maintain, update and implement NorthWestern Energy's APP
• Oversee and conduct biological studies and reporting required to comply with state and federal [e.g., Special Purpose Utility (SPUT) permit, USFWS Injury and Mortality Reporting (IMR)]
• Coordinate EPOP contracts with Asset Management and offset contractor
• Effectively work with state and federal agencies, tribes, private interests, conservation groups and the general public to understand issues and develop long-term working relationships to effectively implement the APP, address other wildlife issues and communicate NorthWestern Energy's activities
• Facilitate Technical Advisory Committees (TAC), as needed, for bird and bat studies to support development and implementation of wind farm project conservation strategies
• Coordinate internal training for engineers, project managers, linemen and other key positions on the APP and other 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 provide input to address problems
• Support electric transmission and distribution standards groups in identifying issues, evaluating materials and developing avian safe designs, standards and strategies
• Support and utilize NorthWestern Energy's environmental information management system
• Support due diligence for energy supply projects, such as wind farm developments, regarding impacts on bird, bat and other wildlife resources and habitats
• Support various environmental compliance and permitting activities
• Promote NorthWestern Energy'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
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds

Additional Responsibilities

• Adhere to NorthWestern Energy safety standards and the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
• Ensure all actions are consistent with NorthWestern Energy's values, mission, and strategic business objectives
• The ability to maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance is an essential function of this position, consistent with applicable laws and reasonable accommodation requirements

What Is Required

• Demonstrated commitment to safety policies and procedures, safe work practices, and ability to maintain a good safety record
• Bachelor's Degree (Master's preferred) in biological science (wildlife preferred), ecology, natural sciences or related field with 5 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 disciplined professionals, regulatory agency personnel and public and private stake holders
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience using computerized maintenance management programs and reporting tools
• Valid Driver's License and satisfactory driving record

What Is Desired

• Knowledge of utility operations, construction practices and associated interactions with avian resources preferred
• Get Into Energy - Energy Industry Fundamental 2.0 certification is a plus (click the link to certify at no cost)

This description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, duties, and requirements for employees in this position. Job descriptions may and do change periodically. Where positions are covered by a collective bargaining unit agreement, the terms and conditions of the agreement will apply.

About NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy is a fully regulated electric and natural gas utility serving Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. We employ over 1,600 amazing people and serve over 800,000 customers who are our neighbors in our communities.

At NorthWestern Energy, you'll find more than a job. You'll find the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, grow your career, and be part of a company that values safety, teamwork, innovation, and service. Whether you're working in the field, supporting our customers, or helping shape our future, your work matters. Join us as we invest in our people, strengthen our communities, and build an energy company positioned for long-term success and growth.

Enjoy Our Comprehensive Benefits Package!

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 your first day plus 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, and competitive medical, dental, vision, HSA and FSA benefits for employees and eligible dependents. Benefits may vary based on position or collective bargaining agreements.

Candidates must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen, background check, health history questionnaire and a pre-employment physical. If there is anything that may show up in these reports that may conflict with the position requirements, feel free to contact the NorthWestern Energy Human Resource team at job.inquiries@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy does not sponsor applicants for work visas for this position. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any other protected class in accordance with applicable federal or state laws and statutes. In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act, should you have a disability that requires assistance and/or reasonable accommodation with the job application process, please contact the Human Resources department at 1-800-245-6977 or at job.inquiries@northwestern.com.

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