Description

Closes: June 21, 2026

Job Description
We are seeking a motivated and experienced Terrestrial Program Leader to oversee and advance our land-based environmental programs associated with the Clark Fork Project FERC License. This role is responsible for leading a diverse portfolio of recreation, land use, wildlife, and habitat initiatives that support long-term environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance. The Terrestrial Program Leader serves as the primary point of contact for all terrestrial matters, managing over 4,000 acres of company lands and more than 40 recreation sites, while ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable operations. This position combines technical expertise with program leadership, requiring independent decision-making, development of work plans and reports, contract oversight, and full accountability for program budgets and outcomes.
In addition to program management, this role plays a critical leadership and community-facing function. The Terrestrial Program Leader directly supervises field staff, provides day-to-day direction and mentoring, and coordinates contractor activities to deliver complex, multi-disciplinary projects. The individual leads stakeholder engagement efforts, including technical advisory committees and stakeholder subgroups, and regularly interacts with agencies, Tribes, landowners, and the public. Success in this role requires strong communication skills, the ability to interpret and apply regulatory requirements, and a proactive approach to problem-solving in both office and field settings. The position requires a significant in-person presence to support field operations, respond to emerging issues, and maintain strong relationships with internal teams and external partners.

Environmental Scientist II Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree from four-year college or university in an applicable field, such as biology, geology, chemistry, fisheries, wildlife, recreation, environmental science, or related field
• Master’s or other advanced degree strongly preferred. Education may substitute for some experience.
• Minimum of three (3) years of professional experience.
• Must demonstrate understanding of fundamental concepts, practices and procedures of particular field of experience or specialization.
• Comfortable in office and field situations representing the company and interacting with a wide variety of utility staff, agency regulators, tribes, and other stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate others to achieve objectives.
• Effective and flexible written and verbal communication skills required. Proficiency in creating clear, concise, and well-structured technical documentation, including reports, manual, process guides, etc. Ability to translate complex technical information into easily understandable content for various audiences.
• Demonstrated planning and organizing skills; ability to anticipate outcomes.
• Ability to successfully develop and maintain collaborative relationships at all levels of the organization and with external stakeholders.
• Computer skills proficiency required including standard office software, GIS or other specialized applications.
• Valid Driver's License
  

Hiring Range: $77,595 to $100,486

Environmental Scientist III Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree from four-year college or university in an applicable field, such as biology, geology, chemistry, fisheries, wildlife, recreation, environmental science, or related field
• Master’s or other advanced degree strongly preferred. Education may substitute for some experience.
• Minimum of six (6) years of professional experience.
• Utility knowledge and experience preferred with knowledge of budgeting and business procedures, as well as knowledge of gas/electric utility industry.
• Demonstrated experience applying a comprehensive and advanced knowledge of a particular field of specialization in achieving organization compliance.
• Capable of reading and interpreting complex regulations and related information.
• Demonstrated broad knowledge of multiple environmental disciplines and applies that knowledge in managing environmental programs.
• Effective and flexible written and verbal communication skills required. Proficiency in creating clear, concise, and well-structured technical documentation, including reports, manual, process guides, etc. Ability to translate complex technical information into easily understandable content for various audiences.
• Ability to successfully develop and maintain collaborative relationships at all levels of the organization and with external stakeholders.
• Comfortable in office and field situations representing the company and interacting with a wide variety of utility staff, agency regulators, tribes, and other stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain collaborative relationships and to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing, is essential.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate others to achieve objectives
• Computer skills proficiency required, including standard office software as well as GIS or other specialized applications.
• Other combinations of education and experience may be considered. 

Hiring Range: $88,336 to $114,838

This position requires an in-person presence to support team and on-site responsibilities. The successful candidate will be required to work based out of our Noxon office. Hybrid schedules may be considered. Company housing negotiable. 

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 $77,595 to $141,339. Questions regarding compliance with this requirement can be directed to humanresources@avistacorp.com. 

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 humanresources@avistacorp.com if you would like assistance.