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Dam Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Ability to rapidly understand unfamiliar enterprise software architectures (CMS, DAM, workflow ... High ownership mindset with comfort operating independently, navigating ambiguity. * Willingness to ...

Ability to rapidly understand unfamiliar enterprise software architectures (CMS, DAM, workflow ... High ownership mindset with comfort operating independently, navigating ambiguity. * Demonstrated ...

Ability to rapidly understand unfamiliar enterprise software architectures (CMS, DAM, workflow ... High ownership mindset with comfort operating independently, navigating ambiguity. * Demonstrated ...

Forward Deployed Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$130K - $210K/yr

Ability to rapidly understand unfamiliar enterprise software architectures (CMS, DAM, workflow ... High ownership mindset with comfort operating independently, navigating ambiguity. * Willingness to ...

Dam Operator information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$9

$29

$72

How much do dam operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for dam operator in Seattle, WA is $29.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.13 and $37.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Dam Operator jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Dam Operator jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dam Operator jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Dam Operator jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Dam Operator jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Dam Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Dam Operator job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,166 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Hydropower Generation Civil Engineer, PE

City of Tacoma

Tacoma, WA • On-site, Remote

$131K - $184K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


City Of Tacoma rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

125th of 851 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Description Tacoma Power's Generation Engineering Civil Group is seeking a motivated and collaborative Power Systems Engineer, PE to support the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of civil infrastructure across Tacoma Power's hydropower facilities. This role supports safe and reliable operation of dams, powerhouses, fish facilities, parks, and other assets related to Tacoma Power's infrastructure. The position is well suited for a professional engineer seeking both variety and growth in the areas of project management and complex engineering responsibilities across a wide range of civil disciplines, such as structures, hydraulics, utilities, geotech, and dam safety.

If you are interested in diverse work, large impactful projects that make a difference, dedicated professional colleagues and contributing to the stewardship of some of the largest infrastructure here in beautiful Western Washington, this could be the place for you. Key Responsibilities Provide professional civil engineering design services for capital improvement projects, ensuring that needs of Operations and Maintenance (O&M) staff are met, applicable codes are followed, and necessary permits are acquired. Provide O&M staff with engineering support and problem solving.

Stamp and seal drawings, specifications, calculations and technical memos. Collaborate and coordinate with Dam Safety, Hydro Operations, Power Management, Transmission and Distribution, and Fish Operations during all phases of a project to ensure alignment and that organizational needs are considered and met. Support compliance with Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) dam safety requirements such as performing periodic infrastructure inspections, improving/creating standard operating plans, and providing written correspondence.

Lead and manage new projects through all phases of planning, design, engineering calculations, preparation of drawings and specifications, and the procurement/bidding process. Coordinate and manage all phases of construction from award of contract through completion, as-built documentation, and closeout. Administer contractual agreements with outside consultants and suppliers.

Provide technical guidance, oversight, mentoring and work review of junior engineers. Contribute to engineering standards and procedures. Qualifications Minimum Education* Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, electrical engineering or directly related field.

*1 year of experience = 1 year of education Minimum Experience Four (4) years of professional level engineering experience in a utility, hydropower, or heavy civil environment. Licensing, Certifications and Other Requirements Washington State Professional Engineering License and maintenance thereafter** Washington State Driver's License and maintenance thereafter This position will occasionally require the ability to dress for inclement weather, wear appropriate personal protective equipment, walk on rough/uneven ground, navigate steep slopes, climb ladders, enter confined spaces, and access areas requiring fall protection. Subject to future change, this is currently a hybrid position that is required to be in the office a minimum of (3) days per week.

Successfully complete Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) training with maintenance thereafter (provided by Tacoma Power). Successful applicants will need to pass a background check. ** 6-month grace period allowable to transfer PE license from another state to WA.

Knowledge & Skills Desired Qualifications Experience with structural engineering, hydroelectric facilities or large civil infrastructure. Knowledge of dam safety regulations. Project management experience.

Strong communication and teamwork skills. Selection Process & Supplemental Information Pay Details: Annual Salary: $131,248.00 - $184,808.00 Employee Benefits | City of Tacoma Tacoma Power Tacoma Power is an almost 100% hydroelectric, municipally-owned public power utility, located in Tacoma. We serve approximately 180,000 customers as one of the three operating divisions of Tacoma Public Utilities, alongside Tacoma Water and Tacoma Rail

As one of the most livable, walkable cities in the country, you'll find that Tacoma is a great fit for all interests with places to bike, run, hike, and explore, the perks of a big city, and the charm of a small town. We welcome you to take a look at our website and discover how the City of Tacoma can make your next career move part of our combined destiny: http://www.cityoftacoma.org/ https://www.mytpu.org/ http://www.traveltacoma.com/ City of Tacoma's Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion A Commitment to Equity & Diversity At the City of Tacoma, we're on a mission to make our workforce as diverse and inclusive as the community we serve. We actively seek out candidates from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures

Join our team at the City of Tacoma and help us build a more vibrant, inclusive, and equitable community for all. If you have a less traditional background, we want to hear about your transferrable skills and experience. We value a variety of perspectives and are excited to see what you bring to the table.

The Community Tacoma is centrally located just 32 miles south of the city of Seattle and 31 miles north of the state capital, Olympia. The City of Tacoma is also home to the Port of Tacoma, which is among the largest container ports in the United States. Like most cities in the northwest, Tacoma is surrounded by beautiful nature, offering residents many opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Largely suburban in nature with a small, but dense, urban core, Tacoma is home to numerous institutes of higher learning that attract students from across the country. The University of Washington Tacoma, Pacific Lutheran University, University of Puget Sound, a satellite campus of the Evergreen State College, three community/technical colleges, and several trade and business schools are within Tacoma's geographic area. Downtown's Cultural District is the site of the Washington State History Museum, Museum of Glass, the Tacoma Art Museum, and America's Car Museum.

With its affordable housing and distinctive neighborhoods and business districts, the city has been recognized numerous times as a best city to live in the nation. To see a few of the great things Tacoma has to offer, view this YouTube Video. View this exciting video to learn more about the City of Tacoma: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2n5MWl8KFvI Application Process Interested individuals should apply online by completing the application and attaching a resume and cover letter by the closing date and time listed on the job announcement

Applications received without attaching the required materials may not progress in the selection process. Applicants who have the strongest backgrounds related to the responsibilities of this position may be invited to participate in the interview process, which may include a work problem. Appointment is subject to passing a background check.

Get Assistance For assistance with the application process or questions regarding this job announcement please contact the Human Resources office at (253) 591-5400 by 4:00 p.m. of the closing date of the job announcement. For technical difficulties using the NEOGOV system, call the applicant support line at 1-855-524-5627 between 6:00a.m

and 5:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. This will allow us to assist you before the job announcement closes

Communication with the City of Tacoma We primarily communicate via email during the application process. Emails from Tacoma.gov and/or governmentjobs.com should be placed on your safe domain list to ensure that you receive notifications in a timely manner. As a precaution, you may also want to check your junk email folders

Note: The provisions of this job announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained herein may be modified and/or revoked without notice


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