FERC Hydro Fisheries Compliance Scientist

Make Choteau Home; Great Falls (MT); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401K with match

Health insurance

Life insurance

Education reimbursement

Paid time off

Volunteer opportunities

Parental leave

Bereavement leave

Paid training

Paid holidays

Job summary

NorthWestern Energy in Montana is seeking a Fisheries Biologist to ensure compliance with FERC license and related regulatory requirements across hydroelectric projects. This role supports wildlife, water quality and recreation programs linked to fisheries and requires working with contractors.

You will monitor fish populations, review studies, assist with FERC amendments, supervise consultants, and report to management.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in biological sciences (fisheries preferred) or equivalent experience.
• Experience with FERC requirements at hydroelectric projects preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
• Willingness to travel to multiple sites.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with FERC license and related regulatory requirements for fisheries and wildlife.
• Manage license compliance programs including monitoring and movement of fish populations and wildlife.
• Review fisheries and wildlife studies, consultant reports, and technical publications.
• Provide technical assistance for FERC license amendments and relicensing processes.
• Supervise contractors and consultants to implement compliance activities and studies.
• Interface with state/federal agencies, tribes, and stakeholders to implement license compliance.
• Prepare and submit compliance reports and manage annual budgets and contracts.
• Assist with monitoring programs and ensure compliance with state and federal permits.
• Travel between office locations and field sites as required.

Skills

Safety awareness

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Driver's license

Boating experience

Education

Master's degree in biological science (fisheries preferred) or equivalent years of experience

Tools

CMMS

Reporting tools

Job description

NorthWestern Energy in Montana is seeking a Fisheries Biologist to ensure compliance with FERC license and related regulatory requirements across hydroelectric projects. This role supports wildlife, water quality and recreation programs linked to fisheries and requires working with contractors.

You will monitor fish populations, review studies, assist with FERC amendments, supervise consultants, and report to management.