Innovation Lab Engineer

Avista • Spokane, WA

11h • $68,027 - $150,183 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Energy Innovation Lab is engaged in an expanding portfolio of projects focused on enabling advanced grid solutions for Avista, including energy storage, microgrids, and distributed energy resource integration. The Lab Engineer collaborates with internal stakeholders and external partners to develop, define, and implement innovative projects with potential for large-scale utility adoption. The role combines advanced power systems and utility industry expertise with creativity and strong collaboration.

Lab Engineers develop business cases, define project scope, specify equipment requirements, and provide design oversight. They use tools such as a hardware-in-the-loop simulator and flexible prototyping environments to develop, validate, and collaboratively test solutions before field deployment. They also work with utility subject matter experts to establish operational procedures and standards that support the safe and reliable integration of new technologies on the grid.

The role is offered at several engineering levels, from Entry Engineer through Senior Engineer. Hybrid work is available, with a requirement to work at the Scott Morris Center in Spokane, Washington, at least three days per week, including Mondays and Tuesdays; the manager determines any additional required day(s).

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in an ABET-accredited engineering program, such as electrical, mechanical, or a related discipline; other combinations of education and experience may be considered.
• Experience requirements depend on level: Entry Engineer—0–1 years preferred; Assistant Engineer—at least 1 year; Associate Engineer—at least 2 years; Engineer—at least 4 years; Senior Engineer—at least 6 years.
• For Senior Engineer: demonstrated use of productivity, presentation, and analytical tools specific to the area of expertise.
• For Senior Engineer: demonstrated technical leadership within engineering and positive, effective working relationships with internal and external parties.
• For Senior Engineer: specialty technical proficiency, project leadership, and ability to work independently.
• Successful completion of a drug test, background check, and motor vehicle records review is required for employment.
• Work at the Scott Morris Center in Spokane, Washington, at least three days per week, including Mondays and Tuesdays; additional days are determined by the manager.

Nice To Haves

• Electrical engineering emphasis in power systems or controls.
• Electrical design experience in distribution, generation, or controls.
• Experience with battery energy storage systems, including specification, operation, and safety standards.
• Power system modeling expertise using software such as Synergi, ASPEN, HYPERSIM, or PSCAD.
• Experience with utility systems such as SCADA, Ignition, PLCs, protective relays, or communications.
• Experience using Python, C Sharp, SQL, or other code-based methods to create custom tools and integrate data between systems.
• Knowledge of testing and validation procedures, including hardware-in-the-loop and end-to-end testing.
• Concise writing and communication skills, including the ability to explain complex topics in simple terms.
• Experience developing specification requirements for procurement.
• Self-motivation, drive, and ability to teach oneself.
• Desire to learn and create, and to help others learn and create.
• Emphasis on safety, customer experience, and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external partners to develop, define, and implement innovative utility projects.
• Develop business cases and define project scope.
• Specify equipment requirements and provide design oversight.
• Develop, validate, and collaboratively test solutions using hardware-in-the-loop simulation and prototyping environments before field deployment.
• Work with utility subject matter experts to establish operational procedures and standards for the safe and reliable integration of new technologies on the grid.

Benefits

• Affordable medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement benefits with an enhanced 401(k) match.
• Incentive programs rewarding performance and contributions.
• Competitive paid time off, including holidays, personal days, and vacation.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Wellness resources supporting mental and physical health.
• Education and development support, including tuition assistance.
• Community giving programs encouraging employee engagement and impact.
• Optional benefits including legal insurance and pet insurance; eligibility is subject to Bargaining Unit affiliation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level