Job Information
Avista Utilities Supply Chain Category Manager in Spokane, Washington
Description
Closes: April 12, 2026
Job Description
This role partners across the organization to strategically define, manage, and optimize corporate spend categories. You will lead the development and execution of sourcing strategies, supplier performance management, and continuous improvement initiatives that drive long-term value and operational excellence.
As a key leader in the supply chain, you will guide cross-functional teams through end-to-end strategic sourcing processes aligned with overall business objectives. You will shape and manage robust supply networks for critical materials and services supporting major initiatives.
You will evaluate supplier capabilities and performance to identify opportunities for improvement, development, and alignment with category strategies, ensuring a high-performing, resilient supplier base that supports innovation, cost efficiency, and sustainable growth.
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in business or engineering
Advanced supply chain background with a minimum of 8 years related strategic sourcing (goods or services) and contract administration experience required.
Strategic sourcing proficiency including strategy development, negotiation, and implementation skills.
MBA preferred.
Experience involving negotiation, purchasing, administering, and managing contracts, and contract claim resolution is desirable.
Strong business process, project management, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage multiple parallel sourcing initiatives involving a high level of complexity and risk.
Results oriented with strong ‘fact-based’ analytical skills.
Exceptional interpersonal and group facilitation skills.
Ability to lead cross-functional teams and communicate at senior levels.
Experience with capital project supply chain management; understanding of capital budgeting
Broad knowledge of contracting strategies and principles for a wide range of services and energy commodities desirable.
Work assignments require general knowledge of the electric and natural gas industries, construction contracting, communications, and/or computer-based services.
Other combinations of education and experience may be considered.
Hiring Range: $100,378 to $131,496
Hybrid work options are available for this role. The successful candidate will be required to work at our Spokane Washington, Mission 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 $100,378 to $162,614. 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 (https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ofccp/posters) . 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.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.