Innovation Lab Engineer

Avista•Spokane, WA

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Energy Innovation Lab is engaged in an expanding portfolio of projects focussed 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
Assistant Engineer: Minimum of one (1) year of engineering work experience required
Associate Engineer: Minimum of two (2) years of engineering work experience required
Engineer: Minimum of four (4) years engineering work experience required
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

Nice To Haves

Electrical Engineer with emphasis in power systems or power electronics
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 automation applicable to utility systems including SCADA, PLC, protective relays, or communications
Experience using Python or other code-based methods to create custom tools and integrate data between systems
Knowledge of hardware-in-the-loop simulation platforms
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