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Dam Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Engineer II (Vacancy)

Columbus, OH · On-site

$41.45 - $62.16/hr

... operator's license. Typical duties include: Coordinating work (including but not limited to, dam facility inspections, reports, and submittals) with internal stakeholders and regulatory agencies.

Dam Operator information

See Ohio salary details

$8

$25

$61

How much do dam operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for dam operator in Ohio is $25.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.62 and $32.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical work hours and team structure for a Dam Operator?

Dam Operators often work in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as continuous monitoring of dam operations is essential for safety and reliability. They usually operate as part of a small, close-knit team that includes maintenance technicians, engineers, and safety personnel. Collaboration is frequent, both in routine monitoring tasks and during emergency response situations. The work environment is a combination of indoor control rooms and on-site inspections, requiring adaptability to both office and field conditions.

What is a Dam Operator job?

A Dam Operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring the operation of dams, ensuring the safe and efficient management of water flow, power generation, and flood control. They inspect equipment, adjust water levels, and respond to emergencies such as leaks or structural issues. This role requires knowledge of hydraulic systems, mechanical maintenance, and safety protocols. Dam Operators often work for government agencies, power companies, or water management districts to maintain public safety and resource management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Dam Operator position, and why are they important?

Succeeding as a Dam Operator requires mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of hydrology or water management, typically with a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water control equipment, and safety certifications such as confined space entry or CPR are often necessary. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help Dam Operators address emergencies and coordinate with maintenance or engineering staff. These competencies are critical for ensuring safe, reliable water flow regulation and protecting both infrastructure and surrounding communities.

Infographic showing various Dam Operator job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,506 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Engineer II (Vacancy)

City of Columbus

Columbus, OH • On-site

$41.45 - $62.16/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Definition Columbus Water & Power- Division of Water's (DOW) Water Supply Engineering (WSE) Section is accepting resumes for a vacant Engineer II position. Under direction, the Water Supply Engineering Section plans, designs, and constructs new and renovated water supply/water treatment projects related to reservoirs, dams, water treatment plants, groundwater wells, pump stations, and other similar facilities. The position will also serve as the Division of Water's Dam Safety Coordinator responsible for execution and maintenance of the Division's Dam Safety Program.

To qualify you must have a valid State of Ohio certificate as a registered Professional Engineer and a valid motor vehicle operator's license. Typical duties include: Coordinating work (including but not limited to, dam facility inspections, reports, and submittals) with internal stakeholders and regulatory agencies. Project management of professional consultants across the, and construction phase of CIP projects.

Oversight of construction contractors for contract conformance. Coordinating, tracking, and addressing various dam safety regulatory requirements. Performing related duties as required.

Candidates should have experience in one of the following or similar fields of engineering work: Civil Dams Geotechnical Hydrologic Hydraulic Electrical Building mechanical Examples of Work (Any one position may not include all of the duties listed, nor do the examples cover all of the duties that may be performed.) Acts as engineer-in-charge of moderately large construction and/or maintenance projects; Reviews and interprets plans and specifications for equipment, materials, and general construction; evaluates design, schedule, and scope; provides technical advice and recommends changes as required; Checks work accomplished by subordinates for quality and quantity by using pre-established standards and policies; Supervises and evaluates professional and technical staff; Reviews plans and designs prepared by staff and consulting engineers for conformance to plans, contract specifications, federal, state, and City regulations and codes, and sound engineering principles; Serves as liaison to and communicates information with affected groups such as City departments, inspectors, contractors, developers, design consultants, utility companies, or other participants as it pertains to specific engineering projects; Represents the division at meetings with local, state, and federal agencies, regional planning and technical committees, commissioners, citizen groups, engineering groups, and other City departments; Stays abreast of current engineering principles; Prepares comprehensive technical reports; maintains proper engineering files, including plans and other project management data or documents; Operates a computer and mapping software to draw and review maps and plans; Reviews reports, studies, recommendations, and surveys performed by subordinates and/or consulting firms; Prepares preliminary plans/proposals and specifications and cost estimates for engineering projects. Minimum Qualifications Possession of a valid State of Ohio certificate as a registered Professional Engineer and one (1) year of professional engineering experience. Substitution(s): Possession of a valid State of Ohio certificate as a registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) and five (5) years of practical engineering experience

Specialization in the discipline for which appointment is being made may be required for some positions and will be incorporated in the job postings, as appropriate. Possession of a valid driver's license. SPECIAL NOTE: Professional experience is defined as responsible and significant engineering work performed after registration as a Professional Engineer (P.E.)

Practical experience is defined as responsible and significant engineering work performed after graduation from an accredited, degreed engineering curriculum. Test/Job Contact Information Recruitment #: 26-1047-V4 Employment Type: Full-Time (Regular) Should you have questions regarding this vacancy, please contact: Alisha Ardolino Columbus Water & Power Division of Water 37 W. Broad St.

Columbus, Ohio 43215 P: (614) 645-3751 E: aaardolino@columbus.gov The City of Columbus is an Equal Opportunity Employer