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Water Rights Jobs in Montana (NOW HIRING)

State of Montana

Evaluate new and existing water rights, analyze water availability, and make defensible decisions and recommendations on applications and changes * Conduct field investigations to measure flows ...

State of Montana

Data Processor 3

Helena, MT · On-site

As the Data Processor 3 with DNRC's Water Rights Bureau in Helena, you will play a key role in ensuring water rights data is accurate, complete, and readily accessible for decision-makers and the ...

Montana

Data Processor 3

Helena, MT · On-site

As the Data Processor 3 with DNRC's Water Rights Bureau in Helena, you will play a key role in ensuring water rights data is accurate, complete, and readily accessible for decision-makers and the ...

State of Montana

Data Processor 3

Helena, MT · On-site

As the Data Processor 3 with DNRC's Water Rights Bureau in Helena, you will play a key role in ensuring water rights data is accurate, complete, and readily accessible for decision-makers and the ...

sealaska

Hydrologist III

Polson, MT · On-site

... to water rights/resources problems and issues including economics, water resources and environmental analysis to provide for efficient multi-objective resource allocation. • In reviewing field ...

sealaska

Hydrologist III

Polson, MT · On-site

... to water rights/resources problems and issues including economics, water resources and environmental analysis to provide for efficient multi-objective resource allocation. • In reviewing field ...

sealaska

Hydrologist III

Polson, MT · On-site

... to water rights/resources problems and issues including economics, water resources and environmental analysis to provide for efficient multi-objective resource allocation. • In reviewing field ...

sealaska

Hydrologist III

Polson, MT · On-site

... to water rights/resources problems and issues including economics, water resources and environmental analysis to provide for efficient multi-objective resource allocation. • In reviewing field ...

TAPPAN LAW FIRM PLLC

Associate Attorney

Helena, MT · On-site

Successful candidates will have extensive knowledge in water rights adjudication and disputes, property disputes, and contractual disputes. Salary is highly competitive and dependent on experience.

TAPPAN LAW FIRM PLLC

Associate Attorney

Helena, MT · On-site

Successful candidates will have extensive knowledge in water rights adjudication and disputes, property disputes, and contractual disputes. Salary is highly competitive and dependent on experience.

TAPPAN LAW FIRM PLLC

Associate Attorney

Helena, MT · On-site

Successful candidates will have extensive knowledge in water rights adjudication and disputes, property disputes, and contractual disputes. Salary is highly competitive and dependent on experience.

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Water Rights information

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$13

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$31

How much do water rights jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for water rights in Montana is $20.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $23.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are water rights?

Water rights are legal entitlements that allow individuals, organizations, or governments to use a certain amount of water from a specific source, such as a river, stream, or groundwater. These rights determine who can access water, for what purposes (like irrigation, municipal use, or industrial activities), and under what conditions. Water rights can be complex and vary widely by region, often governed by state and local laws. In many places, water rights can be bought, sold, or leased, making them valuable assets. Understanding water rights is essential for anyone involved in agriculture, real estate, or industries that depend on water resources.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Rights Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Rights Specialist, you need a solid background in environmental science, hydrology, or law, often supported by a relevant degree and experience with water allocation regulations. Familiarity with GIS software, water modeling tools, and legal research databases is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, negotiation, and communication skills set top professionals apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are essential for navigating complex regulations, resolving disputes, and ensuring sustainable and legal water resource management.

What is the difference between Water Rights vs Water Rights Technician?

AspectWater RightsWater Rights Technician
CredentialsLegal, environmental, or water resource certifications; often requires a degree in law, environmental science, or related fieldsTechnical certifications; often requires training in water management, GIS, or surveying
Work EnvironmentLegal offices, government agencies, or water resource departmentsFieldwork, surveying sites, data collection, and analysis
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, law firms, environmental consultanciesWater agencies, environmental firms, consulting companies

Water Rights professionals focus on legal and regulatory aspects of water access and usage, while Water Rights Technicians support these efforts through technical data collection and fieldwork. Both roles are essential in water resource management but differ in their focus and required skills.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in water rights management?

Professionals in water rights management often encounter challenges such as navigating complex and evolving regulatory frameworks, balancing the needs of diverse stakeholders (including agricultural, municipal, and environmental interests), and resolving disputes over water allocation. The role frequently requires negotiating between parties, interpreting legal documents, and staying current with state and federal water laws. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as is the ability to analyze hydrological and legal data to support informed decision-making.
What are popular job titles related to Water Rights jobs in Montana? For Water Rights jobs in Montana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Rights jobs in Montana look for? The top searched job categories for Water Rights jobs in Montana are:
Water Rights jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Rights job openings in Montana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,332 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Water Conservation Specialist 2 (57103)

Water Conservation Specialist 2 (57103)

State of Montana

Hybrid

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

State Of Montana rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 50 rated states

Job description

Job Overview 

As a Water Conservation Specialist 2, you'll help protect and manage Montana's water resources through a mix of fieldwork, technical analysis, and public service. In this role, you'll evaluate water right applications, investigate water use issues, collect and interpret water data, and help ensure water is managed fairly and responsibly across the state.

Core Values of DNRC Water Resources Division

  • Valuing People

  • Stewardship

  • Service

  • Credibility

  • Engagement

The selected candidate may be eligible for relocation expense reimbursement.


What You'll Do 

As a Water Conservation Specialist 2, you are on the front lines of how Montanans use, share, and protect water. You will:

  • Evaluate new and existing water rights, analyze water availability, and make defensible decisions and recommendations on applications and changes

  • Conduct field investigations to measure flows, confirm points of diversion and places of use, and verify that projects are built and operated as permitted

  • Apply Montana Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) analysis to proposed water uses and document potential environmental impacts

  • Research and interpret complex water records, maps, aerial photos, decrees, and technical data to answer questions and resolve issues.

  • Investigate water use complaints, help defuse conflicts between water users and recommend solutions or enforcement when needed

  • Provide technical information and support to landowners, consultants, attorneys, conservation districts, planning boards, and other partners

  • Present clear technical reports and, at times, testify as an expert witness in contested cases

Every day is different - you might be on a ditch bank measuring flow in the morning and explaining water law to a landowner or attorney that afternoon.

Benefits

Live and work in Lewistown, MT, which offers a unique blend of opportunities and natural beauty, situated between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks. Montana offers abundant recreational opportunities, including camping, fishing, hunting, mountain biking, and hiking. 

Additional benefits include:

  • Work/life balance. 

  • Generous paid leave (vacation, sick, holidays), with vacation leave increasing with service.

  • Longevity pay with continued state service.

  • Health, dental, vision, life insurance, and flexible spending accounts. 

  • Access to free employee medical clinics and telehealth.

  • Retirement plans (Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution plus an optional 457(b) Plan).

  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness - may qualify you for student loan forgiveness.

  • Career progression, professional development, and state employee discounts.

  • Up to 15 days of military leave with full pay.

Minimum Qualifications 

  • Bachelor's degree in natural resource management, natural sciences, or a related field.

  • At least three years of experience in water resources management or a closely related field.
  • Alternate combinations of education and experience may also be considered.

What You Bring 

  • Knowledge of water resource management principles, hydrology, and water measurement practices.

  • Understanding of Montana water law, water rights, and related regulations.
  • Ability to analyze technical information and make sound, defensible decisions.
  • Skill in preparing clear written materials and communicating complex information to a variety of audiences.
  • Experience using computers and software such as databases, spreadsheets, word processing tools, and GIS applications.
  • Ability to build strong working relationships, manage competing priorities, and handle conflict professionally.

How to Apply 

Only online submissions are accepted. Applicants must attach both a cover letter and resume at the time of application to be considered for this position. Failure to attach required documents will result in the application being considered incomplete and not reviewed further. Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process. When attaching documents, mark each as Relevant to ensure they are viewable.

Required Application Materials 

  • Cover Letter - Describe how your knowledge, skills, and abilities will make you successful in this role.

  • Resume - Include all work experience you have held that would help you qualify for this position.
  • References - Provide contact information for three professional work references, preferably supervisors, including your current supervisor if possible. For each reference, include their name, title, organization, phone number, email address, and a brief description of your working relationship (e.g., position held and length of time worked together).

Effective May 4, 2026, this agency 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. 

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