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Associate Engineer Jobs in Spokane, WA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

We are currently seeking an Associate Mechanical Engineer to join our growing New Construction team in the Pacific Northwest. In this role, you'll focus on engineering, design, and coordination of ...

Associates degree in engineering related field. * Entry level position with minimal experience in product engineering. * Ability to operate and have knowledge in using MFG PRO software or similar ...

Engineers at McKinstry are unsurpassed in their ability to combine innovative problem solving with common sense design applications. Because of our design, build, operate, and maintain (DBOM) process ...

Assists in conducting electrical test engineering support involving automation, assembly, maintenance, and data collection. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: (Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable ...

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Associate Engineer information

See Spokane, WA salary details

$42K

$83.6K

$133.5K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Spokane, WA is $83,555.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,200.00 and $96,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate engineer?

Associate Engineers are entry-level engineering professionals who support more experienced engineers in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining various projects in their field. They typically work under supervision and assist with tasks such as drafting technical documents, conducting research, analyzing data, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Associate Engineers often gain practical experience and training to advance to higher-level engineering roles as they develop their skills.

What is the difference between Associate Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAssociate EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; entry-level certificationsBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; professional licensure (optional)
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and support roles in engineering teams; often in office or lab settingsDesign, analysis, and manufacturing in industrial or construction settings
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position across various industries like manufacturing, construction, and techDesign and development roles primarily in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors

The main difference between an Associate Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Engineers are typically entry-level, focusing on supporting engineering tasks, while Mechanical Engineers have more experience and handle complex design and analysis responsibilities. Both roles require a bachelor's degree, but Mechanical Engineers often pursue licensure for advanced roles. The choice depends on your experience level and career goals within engineering fields.

What are some typical challenges associate engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to industry roles?

Associate Engineers often find the transition from academic projects to industry roles challenging due to differences in project scope, teamwork dynamics, and pace. In industry, you’ll likely work on larger, multi-disciplinary teams where effective communication and collaboration are crucial. Additionally, projects often have stricter deadlines and require adherence to established processes and standards, which may be less emphasized in academic settings. Embracing continuous learning and seeking mentorship from senior engineers can help ease this transition and set you up for success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, industry-specific tools, and basic project management systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering accurate technical solutions and contributing effectively to engineering projects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Spokane, WA? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Spokane, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Spokane, WA? For Associate Engineer jobs in Spokane, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Engineer jobs in Spokane, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Engineer jobs in Spokane, WA are:
What cities near Spokane, WA are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs? Cities near Spokane, WA with the most Associate Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Spokane, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,555 per year, or $40.2 per hour.

Substation Maintenance Engineer

Avista

Spokane, WA • Hybrid

$68K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Closes: Open until filled

Job Description

The Substation Maintenance Engineer supports the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of substation equipment through maintenance program oversight, field support, technical troubleshooting, and regulatory compliance. This role works closely with maintenance personnel, field crews, operations, engineering, and vendors to ensure equipment is properly inspected, tested, repaired, documented, and maintained throughout its lifecycle.

The ideal candidate brings a strong foundation in substation equipment, maintenance practices, and field operations, along with the ability to develop technical documentation, analyze equipment condition, and specify replacement components for failed or aging assets.

Responsibilities
  • Develop and maintain substation maintenance programs aligned with industry best practices, and IEEE and NERC standards
  • Support the commissioning of new and upgraded station equipment
  • Provide technical support to field crews for inspections, testing, troubleshooting, and repairs
  • Analyze equipment failures and specify replacement parts and materials
  • Maintain accurate maintenance, testing, and commissioning documentation
  • Collaborate with operations, field crews and engineering to improve asset performance
  • Support NERC compliance, audits, and evidence retention
  • Participate in an on-call rotation and provide off-hour support during outages, storm events, and system emergencies as needed
  • Other job duties as required
Requirements
  • Bachelor of Science in an ABET-accredited Engineering Program
  • Effective and flexible communication skills
  • Substation equipment commissioning, testing and/or maintenance experience preferred
  • Professional Engineer License in Electrical Engineering preferred
  • Knowledge of Avista's electric system preferred
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

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 Spokane, Washington headquarters 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 Rewards

At Avista, our employees are the foundation of our success. Their dedication drives the value we deliver to our customers and communities. That’s why we prioritize the physical, mental, and financial well-being of our team members and their families.

We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards program designed to support every stage of life and career. Our offerings include:

  • 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.

In compliance with state laws, we provide the full salary range for each position, along with the typical hiring range based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity. The full salary range for this position is $68,027 to $186,159. Questions regarding compliance with this requirement can be directed to humanresources@avistacorp.com.

Pre-employment screening requirements
Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a drug test, 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 humanresources@avistacorp.com if you would like assistance.