Head of Project Management (Construction)

The Innovation Lab Project Manager supports Avista’s most innovative and emerging initiatives, where projects often begin without a defined roadmap. This role requires a self‑starter who can independently identify project needs, bring structure to ambiguity, and lead work from concept through execution. The position manages utility capital and grant‑funded projects, including responsibility for scope, schedule, budget, and stakeholder coordination. Success in this role depends on strong experience with grant invoicing and accounting, utility civil and electrical construction, and a solid understanding of project delivery in the utility industry.

This role will define project charter, scope, objectives, budget, and schedule; identify stakeholders and establish project team with agreed upon roles and responsibilities; coordinate the activities or efforts of the project team; obtain management approval as needed; ensure project documentation is maintained; identify, analyze, and address project performance issues such as budget overages or scheduling delays; manage the integration of vendor tasks and track and review vendor deliverables; communicate project status to all stakeholders; assess project risk and develop contingency plans; Ensures compliance with all applicable local, state and national codes, laws, regulations, and records requirements. Coordinates all phases (initiation/design/execution/close out) of the project at numerous locations within the service territory.

Lead projects from initiation through completion, ensuring delivery on scope, budget, timeline, quality, and stakeholder expectations.

Develop and manage project plans, communication strategies, change management processes, and deliverables.

Apply project management techniques to monitor progress, manage risks, and implement creative solutions for challenges.

Conduct financial analysis, forecasting, and life‑cycle cost evaluations; Acquire and manage contracted resources, including performance feedback and resolution of contract changes.

Analyze key performance indicators to improve project outcomes and support process improvement initiatives.

Collaborate with internal teams and business unit leaders to define opportunities and ensure strategic alignment.

Manage complex or undefined projects requiring innovative approaches and significant risk management.

Mentor other Project Managers and contribute to department best practices.

Project Manager I Requirements

BA/BS from an accredited college or university in a field of study that is relevant to the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

Associate level project management certification, such as Certified Associate Project Management (CAPM), or ability to obtain within one year.

3+ years' relevant experience including 1 year of construction or other technical project management experience.

Manage a team and personal dynamics to effectively drive projects forward, lead project meetings, develop creative and innovative solutions, and build relationships with internal/ external stakeholders.

Project Manager II Requirements

BA/BS from an accredited college or university in a field of study that is relevant to the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

Professional level project management certification, such as Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified Construction Manager (CCM), or ability to obtain within one year.

5+ years' relevant experience including 3 years of construction or other technical project management experience.

Manage multiple teams and personal dynamics to drive projects forward, work effectively with senior staff members and management, manage unique resource group for the delivery of projects, lead complex project meetings, demonstrate knowledge of projects and technical requirements from relevant functional area, and lead process improvement initiatives.

Project Manager III Requirements

Professional level project management certification. (Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Construction Manager (CCM))

7+ years of related or relevant experience including 6 years of construction or other technical project management experience.

Ability to demonstrate advanced knowledge of and competency in project management and technical requirements from relevant functional area, lead the most complex and technical projects in the functional area, effectively collaborate with external regulatory, governmental, business, or customer groups, and work with senior management, building agreement and influencing.

Hybrid work options are available for this role. The successful candidate will be required to work at our Scott Morris Center (Innovation Lab) in Spokane, Washington at least 3 days per week including Mondays and Tuesdays with additional day(s) determined by the manager.

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

Community giving programs encouraging employee engagement and impact

Other optional benefits from Legal insurance, Pet insurance, and more (Eligibility subject to Bargaining Unit affiliation)

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. 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.

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. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

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