Third Class Operating Engineer Jobs in Montana (NOW HIRING)

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is recruiting for a Safety, Education & Registration Section Supervisor. This position administers and oversees various aviation education programs and policies. Ensures programs and services comply with quality, safety, efficiency, and consistency with state and federal standards and requirements. Responsible for developing, fostering and promoting aviation safety and educational training programs for pilots throughout the state. Provide program management for aerial search and rescue; develop and implement multiple aviation related training and clinics; as well as coordination of a vast volunteer network of pilots, district coordinators and observers throughout the state. This position reports to the Aeronautics Program Manager and supervises 3 employees. Statewide travel is required in state aircraft to perform these duties. This position is on call for search and rescue (SAR) duty on a recurring basis and as needed. Flight hours for this position are less than 100 hours per year.

For a full job description, please contact Alycia Gereg at agereg@mt.gov.

Benefits of working for MDT and the State of Montana include:

         Culture of public service and a commitment to work/life balance

         Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

         Access to Montana Health Centers, low-cost clinics for state employees and their families

         State Retirement plan and additional savings opportunities (deferred compensation)

         Employees in this position receive overtime compensation or compensatory time for all time in a pay status over 40 hours in a workweek

         Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays

         Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness

         Benefits apply on first day of employment

         Relocation assistance may be offered to the successful candidate at the time of offer

For information on the Montana Department of Transportation's mission, vision, and values, please visit our website: https://www.mdt.mt.gov/about.aspx#values

Required Application Materials:

1. A resume detailing your qualifications and work history. Include flight hours.

2. A cover letter of no more than two pages addressing your qualifications for the position.

3. Copies of all FAA airman certificates held

4. Copy of FAA medical certificate

Your online application and all required materials must be submitted before midnight on the closing date. Ensure all materials submitted are selected as "Relevant."

If you need an accommodation with the application process, please contact the HR representative listed below.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Aeronautical Science, Professional flight, Business, Education or a related field. *OR 4 years of additional related experience in lieu of a degree.

• 3 years of related experience. 1 year of supervisory or team lead experience.

• Certifications, licensure or other required credentials:

  • FAA Private Pilot's License with Instrument Rating

  • Current first class, second class, or third-class FAA Medical Certificate

  • Ability to pass an annual flight review

  • 750 hours PIC (500 hours must be airplane, single engine land (piston))

• Preferred experience and certifications: Survey or search and rescue flight experience; and Certified Flight Instructor Certificate. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of state and federal regulations regarding aviation and aeronautics. Knowledge of FAA advisory circular regulations and FAA parts 61, 91, 119, 135, and 141 when interpreting program requirements of state, federal, national and industry guidelines. 

• Knowledge of general aviation aircraft and operating considerations; flight principles associated with mountain environments and aviation weather; weight, balance and performance limitations of aircraft.

• Effective communication skills and ability to build relationships with federal, state and local agencies, contractors, consultants, industry representatives as well as public contacts. 

Other Information

The successful candidate must pass a name-based background investigation as a condition of employment.

Driver's record will be verified. Successful applicants will be required to sign a release form which authorizes the Department to obtain the applicant's permanent driving records. Compliance with Mont. Admin. R. 2.6.201, "State Vehicle Use," and MDT Policy #6.03.001, "State Vehicle Use Policy" are conditions of employment.

The Montana Department of Transportation is an equal opportunity employer. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and veterans and disabled veterans are encouraged to apply. People with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may call the Human Resources and Occupational Safety Division, at 406.444.6054.

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is committed to continuous improvement of our employee safety program and our safety and health processes, and to achieving an injury-free workplace.

Proof of eligibility to work in the United States must be provided if selected for hire. Generally, sponsorship for work authorization is not available through the State of Montana.

Effective 5/26/2026, MDT is participating 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.