ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Hydroelectric Power Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

$69.15/hr

You will serve as a journey level Power Plant Operator at a hydroelectric facility whose principal assignment is operation of the powerhouse. The powerhouse consists of 27 main generators, 2 station ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEnergy and Environment JobsUtility JobsUtility Worker JobsEntry Level Hydroelectric Power Plant Jobs

Entry Level Hydroelectric Power Plant information

See salary details

$26

$39

$54

How much do entry level hydroelectric power plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level hydroelectric power plant in the United States is $39.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.38 and $46.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level hydroelectric power plant job?

Entry level hydroelectric power plant jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the hydroelectric power industry or have minimal prior experience. These roles often include titles like plant operator trainee, technician assistant, or maintenance helper. Entry level employees typically support more experienced staff in monitoring equipment, conducting routine maintenance, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the facility. Training is usually provided on the job, and these positions can be a stepping stone to more advanced careers in power generation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level hydroelectric power plant operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Hydroelectric Power Plant Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, a basic understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, and strong math skills. Familiarity with SCADA systems, safety protocols, and sometimes relevant certifications such as OSHA or power plant operation training are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of hydroelectric facilities, which is vital for energy production and safety.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level employees at hydroelectric power plants, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level employees at hydroelectric power plants often face challenges such as adapting to complex safety protocols, learning to operate and monitor specialized equipment, and understanding the plant's operational workflows. New hires may also find it challenging to work shifts that include nights or weekends, as power plants often operate 24/7. To overcome these challenges, it's important to actively engage in on-the-job training, seek guidance from experienced colleagues, and consistently follow established safety procedures. Building a strong foundational knowledge and asking questions will help new employees integrate smoothly and perform effectively within the team.

What is the difference between Entry Level Hydroelectric Power Plant vs Entry Level Wind Turbine Technician?

AspectEntry Level Hydroelectric Power PlantEntry Level Wind Turbine Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical trainingHigh school diploma, technical training
Work EnvironmentHydroelectric facilities, power plantsWind farms, outdoor turbine sites
Industry UsageElectric utility companies, renewable energyRenewable energy companies, service providers
Common Search/ComparisonEntry Level Hydroelectric Power PlantEntry Level Wind Turbine Technician

Both roles involve working in renewable energy sectors with similar credentials and work environments. The main difference lies in their specific focus: hydroelectric power plants utilize water flow to generate electricity, while wind turbine technicians work on maintaining and repairing wind turbines. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right entry-level position in renewable energy industries.

More about Entry Level Hydroelectric Power Plant jobs

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Hydroelectric Power Plant jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Hydroelectric Power Plant job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Hydroelectric Power Plant jobs?

The most popular types of Hydroelectric Power Plant jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Hydroelectric Power Plant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Hydroelectric Power Plant jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Hydroelectric Power Plant jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Hydroelectric Power Plant jobs are:

Entry Level Hydroelectric Power Plant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Hydroelectric Power Plant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,563 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Power Plant Senior Controller

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Selma, AL • On-site

$66.34/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 538 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Competitive Positions of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: Incumbent will be in charge of power operations during one working shift and responsible for the operation of a complete system of up to thirteen local and remote hydroelectric generating plants under varying and complex operating conditions.Qualifications:

Who May Apply: US Citizens


In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of an Power Plant Senior Controller without more than normal supervision. Assignments will involve performance of common duties of operating a hydroelectric power plant under normal and abnormal conditions; issuing safe clearance for hydroelectric power plant equipment; operating flood control facilities to reduce flood risk. Work under normal supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee. Ability to do the work of an Power Plant Senior Controller without more than normal supervision- Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
PHYSICAL EFFORT: Work tasks require that the incumbent be capable of rapid simultaneous mental and muscular coordination in conjunction with hand and eye coordination to operate switches and controls in accordance with meter indications. To respond to emergency situations, incumbent must be able to lift and carry objects up to 45 pounds, climb several flights of stairs in succession, stand, sit, or kneel for prolonged periods of time. To use power plant communications, the incumbent must have normal speech and hearing. To recognize color coded instrument indications, normal correctable vision and color vision are required.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Most duties are performed within the confines of Master Power Plant control room. Occasionally duties may be assigned on the generator and turbine floor, spillway and switchyard. Some exposure to moderate discomforts such as noise, heat, cold, moving, and rotating equipment can be expected. This position requires occasional travel outside the normal duty locations for training activities, operational familiarization of other power plants, local control of other power plants and other activities.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER

What U.S. Department Of Defense employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply