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Dam Operator Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Construction Manager, Hydro

Portland, OR · On-site

$109K - $126K/yr

... or dam safety experience • Experience working inside an operating hydro facility during retrofit or rehabilitation work • Bureau of Reclamation or Army Corps of Engineers project experience • ...

Dam Operator information

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?

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.

How to become a dam operator?

To become a dam operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or experience in water management, hydraulics, or related fields. Many positions require certification in water or dam safety, and on-the-job training is common to learn specific equipment and safety protocols.
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Infographic showing various Dam Operator job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Construction Manager, Hydro

Integrity

Portland, OR • On-site

$109K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Location: Pacific Northwest, based near Portland, OR with regular travel to project sites
Company: Integrity PSC
Position Summary
Integrity PSC is seeking a mid level Construction Manager to oversee field construction activities for hydroelectric generation projects. This role manages contractor coordination, quality assurance, and day to day site oversight for hydro facility upgrade, rehabilitation, and relicensing related construction, working closely with plant owners, EPC contractors, and regulatory stakeholders to ensure projects are delivered safely, on schedule, and to specification.
The Construction Manager works with a moderate level of independence, reporting project status and escalating issues to senior project leadership as needed.
Key Responsibilities
• Oversee day to day construction activities for hydro generation upgrade and rehabilitation projects
• Coordinate and monitor EPC contractor and subcontractor performance against project schedule, budget, and quality standards
• Conduct field inspections of dam infrastructure, turbine and generator equipment, and balance of plant work
• Support contract administration, change order review, and progress reporting
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, FERC, and project specific safety requirements
• Coordinate outages and tie in work with plant operations to minimize disruption to generation
• Participate in punch list development, commissioning, and project closeout
• Communicate project status, risks, and issues to project owners and regulatory stakeholders
Minimum Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent field experience
• 5 to 10 years of construction management experience, hydro generation project experience preferred
• Familiarity with utility scale construction contracts and EPC oversight
• Working knowledge of OSHA safety standards
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites
Preferred Qualifications
• FERC relicensing or dam safety experience
• Experience working inside an operating hydro facility during retrofit or rehabilitation work
• Bureau of Reclamation or Army Corps of Engineers project experience
• OSHA 30 certification
Why Join Integrity PSC?
At Integrity PSC, you will be part of a team committed to delivering high quality, reliable solutions to utility partners across the country. We value safety, technical excellence, and a strong team culture where individuals are empowered to make an impact.
Additional Information
• Travel: Frequent, may require extended stays at project site
• Work Environment: Primarily field based at active hydro facility construction sites, including work in and around dam infrastructure
• Physical Requirements: Ability to access and navigate dam and powerhouse environments, climb structures, and work near water
About Integrity PSC
At Integrity PSC, we do more than support utilities. We help keep the lights on. Our team partners with electric utilities across the country to strengthen the infrastructure that powers communities, businesses, and everyday life.
We bring together experienced field professionals, technical expertise, and a commitment to doing things the right way, safely, reliably, and with integrity. Whether working in substations, on transmission lines, or supporting critical operations, our people are trusted to step in, solve problems, and deliver results where it matters most.
This is work that directly impacts the reliability of the grid and the communities that depend on it. At Integrity PSC, you are part of a team that takes pride in doing essential work and doing it well.
The pay range for this role is:
109,000 - 126,000 USD per year (Portland, OR)