Entry Level Natural Gas Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator (Gas Ground Worker Plus)

Work Location: Bozeman, MT

Pay range: Union Rate $41.61 per hour

Employment Status: Seasonal Full-time (layoff expected 12/30/2026, subject to recall the following spring)

External candidates apply at northwesternenergy.com

Internal candidates apply through iConnect.

About this position:

The machine operator/gas ground worker performs various manual labor and equipment operation tasks to assist the Gas crews to install, maintain, and service the gas distribution system. This is an entry-level position that may be used to prepare the worker for entry into an Apprenticeship. Experience with mini-excavators, trenchers, and other digging equipment is desired. The machine operator may be called upon in emergency situations.

We offer great benefits:

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. We are a top employer and offer competitive benefits, including:

• 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 heath)
• Life Insurance (Company pays basic employee policy; spouse, dependent insurance also available)
• Continuing tuition 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

Benefits may vary by position or as negotiated as part of a collective bargaining agreement.

About this job:

• Communicate verbally and understand audible signals in emergency/safety situations and in general to assist in keeping worksite area safe
• Assist gas crews to install, maintain, and service the gas distribution system
• Observe and perform safe practices for operating in the vicinity of electric and natural gas crews
• Organize, restock, and perform basic preventative maintenance on equipment, trucks and shop
• Use hand tools and operate heavy equipment to dig ditches and expose utilities
• Work overtime including call out availability for evening and weekend shifts-especially in response to acute service needs
• Follow directions from crew members
• Work as a team member to safely and efficiently complete work activities
• Use problem-solving skills and initiative to foresee equipment needs of the crew and to identify and alert the crew to potential safety concerns
• Lift, shovel, rake, install wires and pipe, pull and push heavy loads as well as driving large trucks and towing equipment
• This position is subject to seasonal layoff
• Lift and manipulate needed equipment weighing up to 75 pounds
• The ability to maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance is an essential function of this position, consistent with applicable laws and reasonable accommodation requirements
• All NorthWestern Energy employees are required to 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

Am I right for this job? Here's the success profile:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Demonstrate and maintain a good safety record
• Valid Commercial Driver's License and satisfactory driving record
• Must be able to operate equipment such as: backhoes, loaders, excavators, trenchers, hydraulic booms (excluding cranes), compressors and other medium duty equipment
• First Aid/CPR Certification
• Knowledge of applicable codes and safety policies/procedures
• Certification from a qualified pre apprentice training program a plus
• Looking for candidates with interest/aptitude potential to move into apprenticeship
• Continued employment dependent upon overall performance and success in moving into the apprenticeship program
• Selection into an apprenticeship will require the successful candidate to agree to live within an area approved by the company that allows for adequate response to our customers in call out and emergency situations
• Get Into Energy - Energy Industry Fundamental 2.0 certification is a plus (click the link to certify at no cost)

Requisition #5038

Posting Dates: July 7, 2026 through July 21, 2026

Department/Division: Operations

Employment Physical: Required

Drug Test: Required

Background Check: Required

Relocation Benefit: None

Telecommuting: None

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.