Innovation Lab Engineer

Closes: November 23, 2026 Job Description 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 adoption by the utility. This role requires a combination of advanced power systems and utility industry expertise, alongside creativity and strong collaborative abilities. Lab Engineer responsibilities encompass developing business cases, defining project scope, specifying equipment requirements, and providing design oversight. Engineers have access to state-of-the-art tools such as a hardware-in-the-loop simulator and flexible prototyping environments, enabling them to develop, validate, and collaboratively test solutions prior to field deployment. Lab Engineers also work closely with subject matter experts across the utility to establish operational procedures and standards, ensuring the safe and reliable integration of new technologies on the grid. Requirements: Bachelor of Science in an ABET-accredited Engineering Program (Electrical, Mechanical, or related discipline) Entry Engineer: 0-1 years engineering work experience preferred Hiring Range: $68,027 to $87,754 Assistant Engineer: Minimum of one (1) year of engineering work experience required Hiring Range: $77,595 to $100,486 Associate Engineer: Minimum of two (2) years of engineering work experience required Hiring Range: $88,336 to $114,838 Engineer: Minimum of four (4) years engineering work experience required Hiring Range: $100,378 to $131,496 Senior Engineer: Minimum of six (6) years engineering work experience required Demonstrated skills illustrating use of productivity, presentation, and analytical tools specific to area of expertise Demonstrated technical leadership within engineering Demonstrated positive and effective working relationships with internal and external parties Specialty technical proficiency, project leadership, and ability to be self-directed Hiring Range: $114,207 to $150,183 Preferred Requirements Electrical Engineer with emphasis in power systems or controls Electrical Design Experience: Distribution, Generation, Controls Experience with Battery Energy Storage Systems, including their specification, operation, and safety standards Expertise with power system modeling using software such as: Synergi, ASPEN, HYPERSIM and PSCAD Experience with utility systems including SCADA, Ignition, PLC, 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. Concise writing and communications style, ability to express complex topics in simple terms Experience with the development of specification requirements for procurement Self-motivated, highly driven and ability to self-teach Strong desire to learn and create, and help others learn and create Emphasis on safety, customer experience and teamwork. Other combinations of education and experience may be considered. Hybrid work options are available for this role. The successful candidate will be required to work at our Scott Morris Center location in Spokane, Washington at least 3 days per week including Mondays and Tuesdays with additional day(s) determined by the manager. To Apply We encourage you to apply as many of our positions have multiple levels to account for an incoming employee’s various knowledge, skills, and experience. Complete an online application and attach your resume and cover letter to your profile . All documents must be attached to your application at the time of submitting your application for review. No documents can be attached after you click "Submit". Total Rewar…

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