Physical Security Intern; Criminal Justice, Homeland Security, Emergency Management, Security Studies, Cybersecurity

Job Category: Students

Requisition Number: ENTER
005912

• Posted :
  November 2, 2026
• Full-Time

Showing 1 location

Mission WA
Spokane, WA , USA

Closes: December 6, 2026

Job Description

Avista is an energy company involved in the production, transmission, and distribution of energy as well as other energy-related businesses located in Spokane, Washington. Its service territory covers 30,000 square miles in eastern Washington, northern Idaho, and parts of southern and eastern Oregon.

At Avista, the Physical Security team is responsible for protecting our people, facilities, and critical infrastructure that powers the communities we serve. Through a combination of security technology, risk assessments, incident response, and security program management, the team works to safeguard essential operations and support organizational resilience. This opportunity provides valuable insight into how physical security helps protect critical assets and ensures the safe, reliable delivery of essential services to our customers and communities.

Our Student Development Program gives students the opportunity to work in and with several different departments within Avista. Students will be assigned a formal mentor, participate in learning sessions about various parts of Avista, and join tours to Avista facilities, including some of our hydroelectric dams. Our goal is to help students learn as much as possible about the utility industry.

As the Physical Security Intern, you'll get the chance to:

• Support security operations, emergency management, and compliance initiatives to protect Avista’s energy infrastructure.
• Assist with monitoring systems, risk assessments, policy updates, and researching emerging security threats.
• Get exposure and experience in real-world security operations.
• Collaborate with experienced security professionals & business partners while contributing towards initiatives involving facility security, security technology, compliance activities, risk management, program development and incident response.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old

Undergraduate or graduate student enrolled full time in college earning a degree in Criminal Justice, Homeland Security, Emergency Management, Security Studies, Cybersecurity, or another related field.

Effective written and verbal communication skills

Ability to work collaboratively in a professional team environment

Other combinations of education and experience may be considered.

This internship will require an on-site presence at our Spokane, Washington headquarters.

• Student Specialist Tech-1 (Freshman), Starting Salary: $19.51 per hour
• Student Specialist Tech-2 (Sophomore), Starting Salary: $21.46 per hour
• Student Specialist Tech-3 (Junior), Starting Salary: $23.60 per hour
• Student Specialist Tech-4 (Senior), Starting Salary: $25.96 per hour
• Student Specialist Tech (Graduate Student), Starting Salary: $32.13 per hour

• 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  .

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