Job Description

Chief of Operations

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(

25142605

)

THE

OUTSIDE IS IN US ALL.

FWP is searching for our next Chief of Operations

Announcement:

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


Resume and Cover Letter


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 November 17, 2025. You must apply through the State of Montana Career site.

The Position:

The Chief of Operations is a key member of the Director's Office and plays a critical leadership role in the overall administration and management of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. This position is responsible for overseeing the implementation of departmental programs and directives across all seven regions, ensuring consistency with agency policy, legislative mandates, and strategic goals. The Chief of Operations supervises regional supervisors, manages regional budgets, and coordinates the development and execution of annual work plans. This role also supports the Director in high-level decision-making, policy development, legislative planning, and public engagement. Acting as a liaison between the Director's Office and regional operations, the Chief of Operations ensures effective communication, operational alignment, and accountability across the department. The position frequently represents the Director in internal and external meetings and is entrusted with advancing the agency's mission through collaborative leadership and strategic oversight.

The Location:

Nestled between the Big Belt and Elkhorn mountain ranges, Helena offers an exceptional quality of life for those who value access to the outdoors, a strong sense of community, and a rich historical backdrop. As Montana's capital city, Helena combines the charm of a small town with the amenities of a state hub-featuring vibrant arts and culture, excellent schools, and a growing local food and brewery scene. With hundreds of miles of trails right out the back door, including the renowned South Hills Trail System, Helena is a paradise for hikers, bikers, anglers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Living here means enjoying a balanced lifestyle where work, recreation, and natural beauty intersect every day.

Special Information:

Identity of applicants who become finalists may be releases 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.

Minimum Qualifications:

Qualifications are typically acquired through a master's degree in natural resource management or public administration, and 10 years of progressively responsible experience in a natural resource management agency. At least three years experience as a regional supervisor or division administrator in the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, or other high-level supervisory experience is desirable. Other relevant experience/education will be evaluated individually.

Applicant Pool Statement

If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.

Training Assignment

Not Applicable

Salary: $

62.34 - 62.34 Hourly

Telework Eligibility

Not Telework Eligible

Benefits Package Eligibility

Health Insurance, Paid Leave & Holidays, Retirement Plan

Number of Openings

1

Employee Status

Regular

Schedule

Full-Time

Job Type

Standard

Shift

Day Job

Travel

Yes, 25 % of the Time

Primary Location

Helena

Agency

Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks

Union

000 - None

Posting Date

Nov 3, 2025, 2:20:23 PM

Closing Date (based on your computer's timezone)

: Nov 18, 2025, 12:59:00 AM

Required Application Materials

Cover Letter, Resume

Contact Name

Human Resources |

Contact Email

fwpemp@mt.gov |

Contact Phone

406.444.5617