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Dam Mechanic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Interior

$62.13/hr

... as a Hydroelectric Mechanic. You can make a difference in the West by assisting in meeting ... Davis Dam, Arizona Full time telework and remote work not available; housing not provided.

Beaver Dam Health Care Center

WI

Beaver Dam Health Care Center is looking for YOU! Beaver Dam Health Care Center is a skilled ... Lift, move, and transport residents, using proper body mechanics or lifting devices for accident ...

Brayman Construction

Union Lead Mechanic

Monaca, PA · On-site

$44.96/hr

Trumbull-Brayman Joint Venture is seeking an experienced Union Lead Mechanic to support the Montgomery Lock & Dam Project in Monaca, Pennsylvania , a major U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE ...

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Dam Mechanic information

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$12

$24

$36

How much do dam mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for dam mechanic in the United States is $24.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Dam Mechanic vs Heavy Equipment Mechanic?

AspectDam MechanicHeavy Equipment Mechanic
CertificationsTypically requires specialized dam or hydroelectric plant certificationsRequires general heavy equipment repair certifications, such as ASE or equivalent
Work EnvironmentPrimarily works at dams, hydroelectric plants, and water management facilitiesWorks on construction sites, mining operations, and industrial sites with heavy machinery
Industry UsageSpecific to water resource management and hydroelectric powerUsed across construction, mining, agriculture, and industrial sectors

While both Dam Mechanics and Heavy Equipment Mechanics repair large machinery, Dam Mechanics specialize in equipment used at dams and hydroelectric facilities, often requiring specialized certifications. Heavy Equipment Mechanics have a broader focus on various heavy machinery across multiple industries. The choice depends on the work environment and industry focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Dam Mechanic, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dam Mechanic, you need expertise in mechanical maintenance, hydraulic systems, and troubleshooting, generally supported by a technical diploma or apprenticeship in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with specialized equipment such as pumps, valves, hoists, and maintenance management systems is essential, along with relevant safety certifications. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the reliable operation and safety of dam infrastructure, preventing failures and supporting water resource management.

What are some typical challenges a Dam Mechanic might encounter during routine inspections and maintenance?

Dam Mechanics often face challenges such as accessing hard-to-reach areas of the dam structure, working in varying weather conditions, and addressing unexpected equipment malfunctions. These professionals must pay close attention to safety protocols while handling heavy machinery and working near water. Additionally, diagnosing and repairing issues quickly is critical to ensuring the dam's operational integrity and public safety. Collaborating with engineers and other maintenance staff is also essential for comprehensive inspections and repairs.

What are dam mechanics?

Dam mechanics are skilled tradespeople who inspect, maintain, and repair the mechanical systems and equipment associated with dams. Their work often includes servicing gates, turbines, pumps, valves, and other machinery that control water flow and ensure the safe operation of the dam. Dam mechanics play a critical role in preventing equipment failure and ensuring the structural integrity and safety of the dam. They may also keep detailed maintenance records and respond to emergencies such as mechanical breakdowns or flooding events.
Infographic showing various Dam Mechanic job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 19% Contract, and 18% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,613 per year, or $24.8 per hour.
Senior Dam Safety Engineer/ FERC Independent Consultant

Senior Dam Safety Engineer/ FERC Independent Consultant

HDR

Bellevue, WA • On-site

$113K - $154K/yr

Other

Posted 16 hours ago

HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 352 rated engineering

Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we work to weave diversity, equity, and inclusion into our work and foster a sense of belonging throughout the company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story'
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

HDR is looking for Senior Dam Safety Engineers and/or Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) approved Independent Consultants (IC) in multiple locations across the country to join our thriving and growing Hydropower Practice. HDR is a hydropower and dam safety industry leader, we are expert FERC Part 12 Dam Safety Program practitioners, and we are at the forefront of performing FERC Comprehensive Assessments (CA) and Periodic Inspections (PI).

Our national Hydropower Practice engineering and regulatory team offers core services such as mechanical, electrical, structural, geotechnical and site civil engineering expertise in addition to environmental scientists and regulatory specialists. Hydropower generation is recognized as a critical and renewable component of the US energy portfolio, and our team provides engineering consulting services to all types of hydropower owners located across the U.S. and Canada. If you're looking for a vibrant work environment with career growth opportunities and the chance to work on innovative hydropower, pumped-storage and dam safety projects, we welcome the opportunity to speak with you.  Hybrid or flexible work locations are available across the country.

The primary duties of the Senior Dam Safety Engineer/ FERC Independent Consultant include:

  • Perform inspections of, and engineering assessments for dams and hydraulic structures (or participate in risk assessments for same); as required for FERC CAs/PIs or other purposes.
  • Conduct engineering analyses, evaluations and designs; develop design options or recommendations for hydropower, pumped-storage and related dam safety projects.
  • Lead design of various new and/or rehabilitation of hydraulic structures, including dams, spillways, gates, outlet works, diversion structures, retaining walls, floodwalls, water conveyance structures, or foundations for hydropower, pumped-storage and related dam safety projects.
  • Apply critical thinking and creativity to address unique engineering challenges or problems.
  • Prepare contract documents including drawings, specifications, design documentation and criteria, and cost estimates including critical reports.
  • Work with multi-disciplinary teams on a variety of hydropower, pumped-storage and dam safety engineering projects.
  • Work independently as project engineer and provide oversight, checking, QA/QC and mentorship of staff as needed or if required.
  • Some travel is required.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil, Structural, Geotechnical Engineering (or related engineering degree).
  • Minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience.
  • Experience with dams, water conveyances or other constructed project works and infrastructure associated with hydropower and pumped-storage projects regulated by FERC or other agencies.
  • Familiarity of, and experience with FERC's Part 12 Dam Safety Program, with emphasis on CAs, PIs and risk assessment.
  • Experience working in a multi-discipline environment.
  • Knowledge and experience with the FERC regulatory process including STIDs, PFMAs, CSIRs, and SQRAs.
  • Approved FERC Independent Consultant or ability to demonstrate same within 1-2 years.
  • Completion of training necessary to serve as IC or Facilitator for CAs.
  • Familiarity with or experience performing structural analyses of hydraulic structures with use of finite element software (e.g. ANSYS, ABAQUS, SAP2000, STAAD, RISA, other).
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office, Excel and Word, AutoCAD and/or MicroStation. Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Self-motivated, able to work independently and with a project team to completion of task.
  • Ability to travel as needed for inspections, meetings or other requirements.
  • An attitude and commitment to quality, teaming, innovative problem solving, communication, relationship management, and the culture that is integral to our employee ownership model.

*LI-MB1

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering
  • 10 years related experience
  • A minimum 5 years project management experience
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license
  • MS Office and MS Project experience (Access experience would be plus)
  • Demonstrated leadership, business development and strategic planning skills
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

What HDR employees say

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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917

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