Scientific Program Manager Jobs in Helena, MT (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for a Section Supervisor to join our Opencut Mining Section in the Mining Bureau.  The Opencut Mining Section is one of four sections within the Mining Bureau.  The Section Supervisor is responsible for the successful day-to-day implementation of Montana Opencut mining laws and rules.  The operational duties include: coordination and overall integration of program activities; management of business and software tools; development and implementation of policies, standards, or procedures for the administrative, engineering, scientific, or technical work performed to ensure achievement of programmatic goals, regulatory compliance, and continuous business process improvement; establishment of priorities and short- and long-term plans and strategies to achieve goals and performance targets; monitoring progress, adjusting, and compromising to achieve desired results; and making timely and objective decisions regarding programmatic issues, including consideration of staff input, risk, resource allocation, and time constraints.  The Section Supervisor needs to continually seek ways to improve efficiency, quality, customer service, and overall program effectiveness.  The Section Supervisor needs to understand and manage program funding, which may include state or federal funds, grants, and fees. The Section Supervisor needs to: understand the statutory and funding source requirements for the programs, set fiscally responsible goals, monitor budgets, and evaluate results. The Section Supervisor needs to implement agency, division, bureau, and section direction.

In addition to the operational requirements, the Section Supervisor is responsible for personnel management of the section.  Leadership responsibilities include leading staff to accomplish goals by clearly and effectively communicating priorities and expectations, developing and coordinating annual work plans; providing meaningful and timely feedback, implementing the bureau and section professional growth plan, implementing the bureau and section strategic plan; and coaching and mentoring staff.  The Section Supervisor must lead by example, creating a culture of excellence, professionalism, safety, flexibility, and respect, and serve as a role model for staff.  

At the Department of Environmental Quality, our ultimate goal is to champion a healthy environment for a thriving Montana.  Come be a part of the Department of Environmental Quality!

To apply for this position, please submit your resume and cover letter through the State of Montana Careers site.  In your cover letter, describe how your education, knowledge and skills have prepared you for this position, including but not limited to:  1) developing and maintaining a culture of excellence in Opencut mining law implementation, 2) leading the Opencut Mining Section as it undergoes change, 3) working with stakeholders on ongoing program implementation, and 4) developing/implementing strategic plans for the Opencut Mining Section.

The Section Supervisor positions include a career ladder for professional development and pay progression.

Effective February 23, 2026, this agency participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility.  After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification.   For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, https://www.e-verify.gov/.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate knowledge of state and regulatory framework associated with mining, as well as business and management principles involved in planning, resource allocation, setting priorities, human resources management, successful leadership techniques, continuous process improvement, and positive and effective coordination of people and resources. The ideal candidate will be skilled in communication and leadership, would be dependable, take ownership of the agency's mission, provide fresh perspective, be accessible, practice safety and discretion, have an outward mindset, be able to maintain professionalism, quality, emotional maturity, respect, judgement, and contribute to a positive and communicative work environment.

Minimum requirements include a Bachelor's degree in geology, geomorphology, environmental science, life science, physical science, reclamation, mining or environmental engineering, or a related degree in natural resources and three (3) or more years of progressively responsible experience in a natural resource field.  Demonstrated experience in successfully leading people is required, although this may be from roles other than formal supervisory experience.  

Alternative combinations of education and experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.