System Operator

Avista; Spokane (WA); On-site; USD 101,000 - 126,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare options

Enhanced 401(k) match

Incentive programs

Paid time off

Life and disability insurance

Wellness resources

Tuition assistance

Community involvement

Other benefits

Job summary

Avista in Spokane, WA seeks a transmission operations professional to ensure reliable bulk electric system operation. You will operate the BA and EIM desks, support the transmission system, and monitor real-time E-tags and schedules while maintaining operating reserves.

The role requires 3+ years of related experience, the ability to perform under stress, and NERC system operator certification. On-site work with competitive benefits and a bargaining-unit environment.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of related work experience with minimal supervision.
• Ability to lead, make rapid decisions under stress, and communicate effectively.
• Strong math skills; algebraic basics preferred.
• Knowledge of generation and transmission systems.
• Must obtain and maintain NERC system operator certification.

Responsibilities

• Operate BA and EIM desks as assigned.
• Support transmission system operator activities.
• Monitor and approve real-time E-tags and schedules.
• Monitor and maintain operating reserves.

Skills

Electric power knowledge

Print reading

Transmission operations

NERC system operator certification

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field

Tools

NERC system operations tools

Job description

Closes: September 9, 2026

Hourly Wage: $73.44 to $91.80 per hour; 5-Step Progression; Bargaining Unit

Job Description

Exercise unilateral authority for ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the bulk electric system (transmission and generation) under normal, emergency, and black start conditions, complying with the NERC and WECC reliability standards. This position is expected to operate the disciplines (Balance and Interchange (BA) and Energy Imbalance Market (EIM) desks) as assigned. Support transmission system operator. Monitor and approve all real time E-tags and schedules utilizing Avista’s transmission system. Monitor and maintain operating reserves.

Requirements

• Requires knowledge or experience in basic and advanced electricity, print reading, and utility power generation, transmission, distribution system operation.
• Must have minimum 3+years of related work experience and demonstrated ability to work with little supervision.
• Requires quality leadership, instantaneous decision making, and ability to perform without error under stress for extended periods of time.
• Must have proven ability to respond quickly with good judgment under stressful situations.
• Demonstrated effective and flexible communication skills required.
• Basic math skills are required, and algebra level skills is preferred
• Knowledge of generation and transmission required.
• This position requires working rotating shifts and requires obtaining and maintaining NERC system operator certification.

Other Combinations Of Education And Experience May Be Considered.

Total Rewards

• Affordable healthcare options including 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 for added peace of mind
• Wellness resources supporting mental and physical health
• Education and development support including tuition assistance
• Community giving programs encouraging employee engagement and impact
• Other optional benefits from Legal insurance, Pet insurance, and more (Eligibility subject to Bargaining Unit affiliation)

To learn more, please visit our benefits website at https://avistabenefits.com/.

We are committed to maintaining a competitive and equitable total rewards package that attracts and retains a diverse, skilled, and engaged workforce.

This position is represented by a bargaining unit and wages and benefits are established by the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Questions regarding this posting can be directed to [e-mail].

Pre-employment Screening Requirements

This position is considered safety sensitive by Avista Corporation for which impairment while working presents a substantial risk. Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a drug test (including cannabis) background check and motor vehicle records review.

Avista’s Commitment to Equal Opportunity

Avista is a safe, inclusive workplace for people of all backgrounds, and we are committed to Equal Opportunity Employment. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, age, sensory, mental or physical disability (unless based upon a bona fide occupational qualification), Veteran status or any other classification protected by nondiscrimination laws. Please view Equal Employment Opportunity Posters provided by OFCCP here. Prior to the next step in the recruiting process, we welcome you to inform us confidentially if you require any special accommodations to participate fully in our recruitment process. Avista will make reasonable accommodation to assist a qualified person with a disability in the job application, interview process, and to perform the essential functions of the job whenever possible, where undue hardship would not be created for Avista. Please contact us at [e-mail] if you would like assistance.