Field Operator Trainee

Northwestern Energy is hiring a Field Operator Trainee in Cut Bank, MT. The role involves maintaining and monitoring gas field equipment, including wells and pipelines. The position offers competitive pay ($32.34 to $49.76 per hour), benefits like healthcare, 401K, and paid time off. Candidates must have a high school diploma and complete required training. This is a full-time, on-site position with safety and compliance responsibilities.
Field Operator Trainee


Work Location: Cut Bank, MT


Pay range: Union Rate $32.34 to $49.76 per hour DOQ


Employment Status: Regular Full-time


External candidates apply at northwesternenergy.com


Internal candidates apply through iConnect.


About this position:


The Field Operator Trainee maintains or monitors assigned gas field equipment including wells, well houses, pipelines, and compressors.


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 Program (Offering up to six free counseling sessions, per person, per issue, per year for employees, spouses and dependents)
Life Insurance (Company pays basic employee policy; spouse, dependent insurance also available)
Tuition reimbursement
Competitive pay (Scheduled performance-based wage increases and annual incentive opportunities.)
Paid company endorsed volunteer opportunities
Paid training opportunities
Paid time off starting on your first day, plus 10 paid holidays

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


About this job:



Maintain assigned gas wells, pipelines, and well houses
Monitor and maintain associated equipment as necessary
Monitor, maintain, and refill methanol pumps to keep wells from freezing
Monitor and take readings on compressors and dehydrators
Make accurate measurements and ensure that automated electronic measures function properly
Ensure sour gas monitors are functioning
Collect dew point measurements at gathering stations
Calibrate well meters
Monitor pipelines, containments, or pits around wells for potential leaks; ensure catchments are pumped as needed
Perform general housekeeping duties around compressor station facilities
Perform grounds maintenance around well heads and well houses; mow and spray weeds
Review morning reports and scheduled maintenance lists to identify wells in need of maintenance
Communicate verbally and understand audible signals in emergency/safety situations
Respond to emergencies and live within 30 minutes of the mainline #1 facility
Complete required documentation, activity logs, water transfers, etc.
Required to complete the 8 levels progression training program from field operator trainee to field operator
Perform individual lifts and manipulate needed equipment weighing up to 75 pounds
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
Required to complete Qualified Operator in accordance with PHMSA Title 49 CFR, Part 192 and Subpart N within six months of hire
Required to complete NWE Gas Operator Qualification and HAZMAT programs within six months of hire
Valid driver's license and satisfactory driving record and have the ability to obtain a CDL if required
Commitment to safe working practices and knowledge of safety policies/procedures
Technical college degree with mechanical or electronic focus, or similar military or industrial experience preferred
Demonstrate and maintain a good safety record

Requisition #5006


Posting Dates: April 30, 2026 through May 14, 2026


Department/Division: Gas Transmission & Storage


Employment Physical: Required


Drug Test: Required


Background Check: Required


Relocation Benefit: Negotiable


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.