Avista is a company focused on the safe and reliable operation of hydroelectric and thermal generating facilities. They are seeking a Controls Engineer to design PLC-based control system solutions and provide ongoing engineering support for the operation and maintenance of generating facilities.
Responsibilities
- Own the technical design of generation control systems, including control philosophies and functional requirements supporting safe and reliable operation of generating assets and associated auxiliary and support systems
- Develop and maintain PLC‑based control solutions using the Rockwell Automation Studio 5000 platform, translating functional control requirements into implemented logic and system behavior. Designs may be validated through testing and simulation, including use of lab environments when appropriate, prior to field deployment
- Develop and maintain electrical and controls design packages that define the physical installation and logical integration of control system equipment, including general arrangements, panel layouts and elevations, PLC I/O lists (hard‑wired and communicated), I/O schematics, wiring diagrams, cable schedules, bills of material, and related installation details
- Define and implement control functions that support mechanical equipment protection, including monitoring, permissives, interlocks, and protective actions associated with generators, auxiliaries, and balance‑of‑plant systems
- Define and document the exchange of data between PLCs and other systems such as HMI, SCADA, and PI Historian
- Specify and evaluate automation and monitoring equipment by developing technical requirements, reviewing manufacturer and vendor submittals, and ensuring selected equipment meets functional, environmental, regulatory, reliability, and lifecycle expectations. Equipment may include PLC hardware, field instrumentation, motor controls, communication interfaces, and other components integral to generation control systems
- Develop, maintain, and use technical engineering documentation as a core part of control system design and delivery, capturing control system intent, design decisions, and operational behavior. Documentation may include Basis of Design documents, Controls Narratives, Design Standards, Process Flow Diagrams, and Standard Operating Procedures
- Provide field engineering support during construction, commissioning, startup, troubleshooting, and operational events, ensuring installed systems perform as intended
Skills
- Bachelor of Science in an ABET-accredited Engineering Program (Electrical, Mechanical, or related discipline)
- Effective and flexible communication skills
- Ability to travel overnight and work at remote locations when needed
- Minimum of one (1) year of engineering work experience required for Assistant Engineer
- Minimum of two (2) years of engineering work experience required for Associate Engineer
- Minimum of four (4) years engineering work experience required for Engineer
- Minimum of six (6) years engineering work experience required for Senior Engineer
- Demonstrated skills illustrating use of productivity, presentation, and analytical tools specific to area of expertise for Senior Engineer
- Demonstrated technical leadership within engineering for Senior Engineer
- Demonstrated positive and effective working relationships with internal and external parties for Senior Engineer
- Specialty technical proficiency, project leadership, and ability to be self-directed for Senior Engineer
- Demonstrated experience with PLC‑based control systems, including development, modification, testing, or support of PLC logic for industrial or power generation applications
- Experience translating functional control requirements and engineering intent into implemented control logic and system behavior
- Ability to read, interpret, and develop electrical drawings and schematics related to PLC-based control systems, instrumentation, network architecture, and motor control equipment
- Experience developing or supporting control systems using the Rockwell Automation Studio 5000 environment is strongly preferred
- Ability to develop clear, well‑organized technical documentation to support control system design, implementation, and operation
- Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across engineering, project management, operations, maintenance, and construction organizations
- Experience supporting field activities such as commissioning, startup, troubleshooting, or operational support
Benefits
- 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)
Company Overview
Avista is an energy company involved in the production, transmission, and distribution of energy as well as other energy-related businesses. It was founded in 1889, and is headquartered in Spokane, Washington, USA, with a workforce of 1001-5000 employees. Its website is https://myavista.com.Company H1B Sponsorship
Avista has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships, with 3 in 2025, 1 in 2023, 2 in 2022. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role.