Stream Protection Act (SPA) Permitting Specialist

THE OUTSIDE IS IN US ALL.

Announcement:

Please remember to attach the required documents listed in this announcement.

Resume

Cover Letter

References

Applications missing the requested documents will be considered incomplete and may not progress further in the process. Documents not requested will not be considered in the recruitment process. The State Application is not a substitute for a Resume. This position closes at 11:59 PM Mountain Time on February 1, 2026. You must apply through the State of Montana Career site.

Special Information:

The mission of the Fisheries Division of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is to preserve, maintain and enhance all aquatic species and their ecosystems to meet the public’s interest in recreational opportunities and stewardship of aquatic wildlife. The Fisheries Division accomplishes this mission by implementing policies and programs that emphasize the management of wild fish populations and the protection and restoration of their habitats; by operating an efficient hatchery system to stock lakes and reservoirs where natural reproduction is limited or lacking; by monitoring and regulating angler harvest to maintain balanced ecosystems; by providing and maintaining adequate public access to fisheries; and by providing educational programs for the public.

The Stream Protection Program provides technical and administrative oversight of the division’s habitat protection and restoration efforts statewide for hydraulic projects affecting the bed and banks of natural streams.

This position may be eligible for a statutory base pay increase of $1.00 in hour effective July 1, 2026.

Identity of applicants who become finalists may be released to the public if the Department deems it necessary. Employees who exceed 1,040 hours in a calendar year are also provided health, dental and life insurance. Other benefits include retirement, paid vacation, sick and holidays. This position may be covered by a VEBA (Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association).

A successful applicant will be subject to a background investigation.

Women and minorities are under-represented in this job category and are encouraged to apply.

Specific Job Information:

The Stream Protection Act (SPA) Permitting Specialist is responsible for implementing a statewide regulatory program that applies to government agencies who conduct hydraulic projects affecting the bed and banks of natural streams. The purpose of the job is to prevent degradation of fish habitat. The position directs Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ (FWP) statewide responsibilities under the Stream Protection Act (SPA) as authorized under (MCA) 87-5-501 through 87-5-509. This is a term position that performs SPA permitting related to Montana Department of Transportation (MDT)’s Load Posted Bridge Initiative (position ends 6/30/2027).

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• 
  Advanced training in fluvial geomorphology and hydrology.
• Extensive knowledge of the theories, principles and practices of fishery biology.
• Thorough knowledge of fish habitat and passage requirements.
• Experience with construction practices and procedures – specifically related to hydraulic engineering projects.
• Ability and knowledge to review and understand engineering plans for highway construction projects and be familiar with options for changing projects when necessary to promote natural stream function and protection of aquatic life.
• Thorough knowledge of state and federal regulations that apply to hydraulic projects.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, including the ability to: conduct meetings, provide effective trainings, and prepare reports.
• Ability to communicate effectively with other professionals both within and outside of the agency, and with the public.
• Computer skills and working knowledge of Windows software including Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint.

Minimum Qualifications (Education and Experience):

The knowledge, skills, and abilities of this position are normally attained through combination of education in aquatic sciences, fishery biology, hydrology, fluvial geomorphology, hydraulic engineering, natural resource management, or similar degree typically attained through a post- graduate degree, and 1 to 2 years of job-related experience. Other combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.