Intern Legal

Northwestern Energy; Helena (MT); Hybrid; USD 33,000 - 34,000; Part time

Job summary

NorthWestern Energy seeks a Legal Intern to support the Legal Department through hands-on experience in legal research, regulatory matters, and in-house practice. The intern will assist attorneys with a variety of projects, gain exposure to public utility regulation and energy law, and collaborate with legal and business professionals to support compliance objectives.

Responsibilities include conducting research, preparing memoranda, and supporting regulatory filings under attorney supervision;

Qualifications

• Current enrollment in an accredited J.D. program.
• Completion of at least the first year of law school.
• Applicants must submit a legal writing sample demonstrating research, analysis, and writing abilities.
• Must be in good academic standing.
• GPA must be provided with resume.

Responsibilities

• Conduct legal research and analysis on regulatory and contractual matters.
• Prepare legal memoranda and summaries under attorney supervision.
• Assist with document review, case preparation, and regulatory filings.
• Support legal team with regulatory initiatives and cross-functional discussions.
• Research legal issues and provide information to support business decisions.
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information per policy.

Skills

Legal research

Communication skills

Analytical thinking

Education

J.D. program

First year completed

Job description

Intern - Legal

Location: Helena, Montana

Requisition: 5080 Pay Range: $24.00 to $25.00/hour (1L - $24.00, 2L - $25.00)

Employment Status: Temporary May through August 2027

Position will close: Open until filled

Job Specifications

NorthWestern Energy is seeking a Legal Intern to support the Legal Department through hands-on experience in legal research, regulatory matters, and in-house legal practice. The intern will assist attorneys with a variety of legal and regulatory projects, gain exposure to public utility regulation and energy law, and collaborate with legal and business professionals to support the company's operational and compliance objectives.

Position Summary

Conduct legal research and analysis on regulatory, contractual, and operational matters; prepare legal memoranda and other written work product; assist with document review and case preparation; support departmental projects and regulatory initiatives; participate in legal team meetings, business discussions, and regulatory proceedings; collaborate with attorneys and internal stakeholders to address legal questions; and contribute to the Legal Department's efforts to support company operations, compliance, and strategic business objectives.

Pay Range: $24.00 - $25.00/hour (1L - $24.00, 2L - $25.00)

Location: Helena, Montana

Relocation benefit is not available

Part-time telecommuting within NorthWestern Energy service territory may be negotiable

Essential Functions

• Adhere to company safety standards and the Code of Business Conduct & Ethics
• Ensure all actions are consistent with NorthWestern Energy's values, mission, and strategic business objectives
• Conduct legal research and analysis related to regulatory, contractual, operational, and compliance matters
• Prepare legal memoranda, summaries, and other written work product under attorney supervision
• Assist with document review, case preparation, and regulatory filings
• Support attorneys with legal and regulatory projects that impact business operations
• Participate in legal team meetings, regulatory proceedings, and cross-functional discussions to gain exposure to utility regulation and in-house legal practice
• Research legal issues and provide information to support business decision-making
• Maintain confidential and sensitive information in accordance with legal and company requirements
• Assist in developing, organizing, and maintaining legal records, reference materials, and related documentation
• Participate in organizational work meetings

Additional Responsibilities

• Attend Montana Public Service Commission work sessions, hearings, and other regulatory proceedings as appropriate.
• Collaborate with attorneys and internal business partners to address legal questions and support departmental initiatives.
• Assist with special projects and assignments across the Legal Department.

What Is Required

• Demonstrate and maintain a good safety record
• Must possess strong interpersonal skills
• Current enrollment in an accredited Law (J.D.) program
• Completion of at least the first year of law school prior to the internship start date
• Applicants must submit a legal writing sample demonstrating legal research, analysis, and writing abilities
• Must be in good academic standing
• Must provide GPA in resume upon application
• Strong written and oral communication and documentation skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound professional judgment

What Is Desired

• Previous legal internship, clerkship, or relevant legal work experience is a plus
• Familiarity with legal research platforms and legal writing practices.
• Demonstrated leadership, involvement in student organizations, or participation in law review, or similar academic activities is preferred

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.

Candidates must successfully pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen. 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 [e-mail]

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 (number) or at (email).