Compliance Technician 1

Job Overview

The Compliance Technician performs a broad variety of duties associated with managing Montana's water resources. This position provides front-line customer service with customers in person, over the telephone, and via email. This position is responsible for processing numerous water right applications which includes researching land title records, water right records, county documents, subdivision/Certificate of Survey and a variety of other documents. In addition, this position is responsible for providing the entire office with administrative support.

Core Values

• Valuing People

• Stewardship

• Service

• Credibility

• Engagement

What You'll Do

You'll help maintain accurate water right records and guide Montanans through water right processes. Your responsibilities will include:

• Review and process water right applications and notices, confirm required information is complete, and issue water right certificates for applicable filings.

• Research water right elements using property records, deeds, surveys, well logs, maps, aerial photos, and other sources to verify ownership, locations, and water use.

• Process water right ownership updates by tracing ownership records, reviewing supporting documents, and working with affected parties to resolve missing or conflicting information.

• Complete initial acceptance reviews for permit applications, water right changes, and other filings, explaining missing information and requirements for resubmittal.

• Review subdivision water right predetermination requests, research existing and planned water uses, and prepare letters explaining water allocations and filing requirements.

• Prepare public notices, coordinate individual and batch mailings, track deadlines and objections, and prepare files for administrative hearings when needed.

Administration:

• Welcome visitors, answer calls, and provide assistance or connect people with the appropriate staff or agency.

• Receive and record fees, process payments and refund requests, prepare deposits, and maintain accurate payment information.

• Research returned mail to verify current mailing addresses and water right ownership.

• Maintain office files and coordinate incoming and outgoing mail.

Benefits

• 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

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Two years in a vocational or post-secondary curriculum.

• Equivalent job experience with responsible office work.

What You Bring

• Knowledge of Montana water rights, water law, and filing procedures.

• Familiarity with water uses, well construction, and legal land descriptions.

• Skill with Microsoft Office, databases, GIS applications, and standard office equipment.

• Clear communication skills and the ability to explain water right information and prepare correspondence.

• Ability to learn to interpret maps and aerial photos and solve moderately complex math problems.

• Strong organizational skills to manage competing priorities and deadlines in a busy office.

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.

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. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here: E-Verify Website.