Billings: A Historic Energy Hub
Billings has deep roots in the oil and gas industry. The city is home to multiple refineries, and together with the nearby Laurel refinery, the area processes crude oil from Canada, Wyoming, and the Bakken region into gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and asphalt for markets across Montana and neighboring states. Independent producers, pipeline companies, and oilfield service firms also base operations here, making energy one of the most important sectors in the regional economy.
The industry supports thousands of well-paying jobs, generates significant tax revenue, and sustains a wide network of suppliers. Here are ten of the most prominent oil and gas companies connected to Billings.
1. Phillips 66 Billings Refinery
The Phillips 66 refinery in Billings is a major employer and one of the region's most important industrial facilities. It processes crude oil into transportation fuels and other products that supply Montana and surrounding states. The refinery's long history and skilled workforce make it a cornerstone of the local economy.
2. Par Montana
Par Montana operates the Billings refinery formerly owned by ExxonMobil, which Par Pacific acquired in 2023. The facility produces gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and asphalt, and it supports a network of logistics assets that distribute fuels across the region.
3. CHS Laurel Refinery
CHS, a farmer-owned cooperative, operates the refinery in nearby Laurel. It produces fuels sold through the Cenex brand, supporting agricultural communities and retail stations throughout the northern plains.
4. Ballard Petroleum
Ballard Petroleum is a Billings-based independent exploration and production company. It focuses on oil and gas opportunities in the Rocky Mountain region and is respected for its technical expertise and local roots.
5. Nance Petroleum Corporation
Nance Petroleum is a Billings-based independent oil company with a long history in the Williston Basin and other Rocky Mountain plays. Its experience reflects the strong tradition of independent producers headquartered in the city.
6. WBI Energy
WBI Energy operates natural gas pipelines and storage facilities serving Montana, North Dakota, Wyoming, and South Dakota. Its infrastructure plays a critical role in moving natural gas from production areas to utilities and industrial customers.
7. Bridger Pipeline
Bridger Pipeline operates crude oil pipelines across Montana and Wyoming, transporting oil from production fields to refineries and terminals. Pipeline transportation is essential for supplying Billings area refineries efficiently and safely.
8. Continental Resources
Continental Resources is one of the largest producers in the Bakken region, which extends into eastern Montana. Its activity drives demand for oilfield services, transportation, and supplies, much of which is sourced through Billings.
9. Halliburton
Halliburton provides oilfield services such as drilling support, well completion, and production optimization. Service companies like Halliburton employ technicians and engineers who work across the northern plains, with logistics often coordinated through regional hubs like Billings.
10. Montana Petroleum Association
The Montana Petroleum Association represents oil and gas producers, refiners, and service companies across the state. It provides industry advocacy, education, and policy engagement, helping connect Billings energy businesses with lawmakers and communities.
Economic Impact on Billings
The oil and gas industry generates substantial economic activity in Billings. Refineries employ skilled operators, engineers, maintenance technicians, and safety professionals. Major maintenance projects, called turnarounds, bring temporary workers who fill hotels and restaurants. Local businesses provide welding, fabrication, trucking, equipment, environmental consulting, and legal services. Property and severance taxes support schools, roads, and public services throughout Yellowstone County and eastern Montana.
Industry Trends
The oil and gas industry is evolving. Refineries are investing in efficiency, emissions reduction, and in some cases renewable fuel processing. Producers are using advanced drilling and completion technologies to improve recovery while lowering costs. Pipeline safety and leak detection technologies are advancing. Carbon capture and sustainable aviation fuel are emerging opportunities that could reshape regional energy facilities in the years ahead.
Workforce development is another priority. As experienced workers retire, companies are partnering with schools and training programs to prepare the next generation of operators, technicians, and engineers.
Careers in Oil and Gas
Careers in the Billings energy sector include refinery operators, process engineers, instrumentation technicians, welders, geologists, landmen, and environmental specialists. Many positions offer competitive pay and benefits. Local institutions such as Montana State University Billings City College provide training in process technology, welding, and industrial maintenance that can lead to rewarding careers.
Safety and Environmental Stewardship
Safety culture is central to every major oil and gas operation in the Billings area. Refineries and pipeline operators invest heavily in process safety management, emergency response planning, and community notification systems. Environmental programs focus on air quality monitoring, water protection along the Yellowstone River, and spill prevention. Many companies also partner with local fire departments and emergency planners to conduct joint drills, strengthening preparedness for the entire community and building trust with residents who live near industrial facilities.
Final Thoughts
Oil and gas remain a foundational part of the Billings economy. From major refineries to independent producers and pipeline operators, the companies on this list support jobs, fuel the region, and continue to adapt to a changing energy landscape.