1

Hydro Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apprentice 1 - Paint

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

An Industrial Paint Apprentice is responsible for assisting in all aspects of the preparation and ... hydro-blasting * With supervision, match specified colours by using premixed paints, or mixing ...

As one of our drain apprentices, you will enhance your skills in all aspects of drainage including ... Operating specialized drainage equipment such as drain snakes, hydro-jetters, and drainage cameras

As one of our drain apprentices, you will enhance your skills in all aspects of drainage including ... Operating specialized drainage equipment such as drain snakes, hydro-jetters, and drainage cameras

next page

Showing results 1-20

Hydro Apprentice information

See salary details

$12

$22

$37

How much do hydro apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro apprentice in the United States is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Hydro Apprentice?

A Hydro Apprentice is an entry-level worker who is learning the skills needed to operate, maintain, and repair equipment at hydroelectric power plants. Apprentices typically work under the supervision of experienced technicians or engineers, gaining hands-on experience and technical training in areas such as electrical systems, mechanical maintenance, and safety procedures. The apprenticeship usually combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training, preparing individuals for a career as a hydro technician or operator. The role is crucial in ensuring the safe and efficient generation of renewable electricity from water resources.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Hydro apprenticeships are open to individuals of various ages, and 27 is not too old to start. Many apprenticeships value skills, motivation, and willingness to learn, regardless of age, and older apprentices often bring valuable life experience to the program.

What is the highest paid apprenticeship job?

Hydro apprenticeships typically offer competitive wages, but the highest paid apprenticeships are often in specialized fields such as electrical, plumbing, or industrial trades, which can pay higher wages once advanced. These roles may require additional certifications and skills, and wages increase with experience and skill level.

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

To thrive as a Hydro Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools such as voltmeters, torque wrenches, and blueprint reading, along with OSHA safety certification, is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and good teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure safe, efficient maintenance and operation of hydroelectric plants while supporting reliable energy production.

What is the $5000 apprentice incentive?

The $5000 apprentice incentive is a financial bonus offered to Hydro Apprentices as part of a training or employment program. It is typically provided upon completion of certain milestones or requirements, such as completing training hours or certifications, to encourage skill development and retention in the trade. The specifics can vary depending on the employer or program policies.

How to become a hydro operator?

To become a hydro operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant technical training or experience in hydroelectric systems. Many employers require certifications such as OSHA safety training and knowledge of control systems, along with physical ability to work in outdoor and industrial environments. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions can also be beneficial for advancing in this field.

What are some common challenges faced by Hydro Apprentices during their training, and how can they be addressed?

Hydro Apprentices often encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, learning complex safety protocols, and developing technical skills related to hydroelectric systems. It can be overwhelming at first to balance hands-on tasks with classroom learning. To address these challenges, apprentices should actively seek mentorship from experienced technicians, participate in all safety trainings, and consistently review technical materials. Building strong communication with team members and supervisors also helps smooth the learning process and ensures safety in the workplace.

What is the difference between Hydro Apprentice vs Hydro Technician?

AspectHydro ApprenticeHydro Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingTechnical diploma or certification; some experience required
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, field and plant settingsMore independent, maintenance and repair in field and plant
Industry UsageTraining role within hydro power plantsOperational and maintenance role in hydro power facilities

In summary, a Hydro Apprentice is an entry-level trainee learning the basics of hydro power systems, while a Hydro Technician is a more experienced professional responsible for maintenance and repairs. The apprentice typically works under supervision, whereas the technician operates more independently in the field or plant environment.

More about Hydro Apprentice jobs
What states have the most Hydro Apprentice jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydro Apprentice jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Hydro Apprentice jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Hydro Apprentice jobs are:
Infographic showing various Hydro Apprentice job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $45,806 per year, or $22 per hour.
Electrician - Electric & Hydro-Cupertino,California

Electrician - Electric & Hydro-Cupertino,California

Pacific Gas and Electric Company

Mount Hermon, CA

$65.27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Pacific Gas and Electric Company rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Requisition ID # 167707
Job Category: Maintenance / Construction / Operations
Job Level: Individual Contributor
Business Unit: Electric Operations
Work Type: Onsite
Job Location: Cupertino
Department Overview
Energy Supply is responsible for managing PG&E's portfolio of owned and contracted energy resources that provides safe, reliable, cost-effective and environmentally sound energy to our customers.
Position Summary
This is an International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 1245 represented classification, which has over 100 years of experience representing employees at PG&E. This job is subject to collective bargaining.
This is a Journey-level position responsible for inspecting, testing, troubleshooting, repairing and replacement of electrical equipment at the hydro power generation facilities. Electricians may work indoors, outdoors and in confined spaces.
Job Responsibilities
  • Conducts visual, auditory inspections and electrical testing of equipment to troubleshoot problems for repair or replacement.
  • Identify problems and researches needed repair via manuals, manufacturer's specification and schematics; records status of equipment into tracking system.
  • Test, repair, and install components of electrical equipment by using power tools, hand tools, and testing equipment - such work may involve climbing, working in elevated positions, tight spaces, and underground facilities -Work with chemical and chemical solutions, which includes, but not limited to, oil, grease, paint, PCB, and asbestos
  • Records completed maintenance, repairs and inspection results.
  • Provide quality information to be able to order required replacement parts
  • Provides and receives technical assistance to customers, associates, manufactures and suppliers regarding standards, procedures, equipment design changes and design flaws via telephone, wireless devices, or in person.
  • Operates pallet jack, forklift, crane, and man lift as required by job assignments
  • Must be able to work excessive overtime and drive under difficult and severe weather and road conditions like fog, snow, all weather.

PG&E is providing the hourly rate that the company in good faith believes it might pay for this position at the time of the job posting. This position is subject to collectively bargained hourly wage rates and increases. The starting wage rate for this position is $65.27 per hour. This wage rate is specific to the locality of the job. The wage rate is based on multiple factors, including, but not limited to, specific skills, education, licenses or certifications, experience, market value, geographic location, collective bargaining agreements, and internal equity.
Qualifications
Minimum:
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Must possess a High School diploma, GED, or equivalent work experience.
  • Must have a valid California Class C Driver's License or obtain one within 10 days of hire.
  • Ability to work in all types of weather extremes
  • Ability to drive safely in all weather and road conditions
  • Ability to work extended hours, nights, weekends and holidays
  • Must be able to wear company provided Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Must be able to lift up to 65 pounds a minimum of one time a day
  • Must be a certified Journey-level Elect
  • CA CDL Class A Permit, or equivalent, subject to 150% driver/vehicle ratio
  • Successful completion of a PG&E Electrician apprenticeship or an IBEW/JATC-sanctioned Electrician apprenticeship

Desired:
  • 5+ years work experience as a Certified Journey-level Electrician in an industrial and/or generation work environment
  • PG&E construction or utility experience
  • Experience with electronic or mechanical equipment
  • Instrumentation and Control experience
  • Motor Control experience
  • Electrical Substation or Power Generation experience
  • High voltage experience
  • Experience working with testing equipment and troubleshooting
  • Certification(s) in safety training including but not limited to certification from Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or Mine Health and Safety (MHSA)
  • Ability to reside within a 60 minute commute time from the headquarter location

Pre-Employment Testing
PG&E Employees: You must have qualified on all prerequisite tests prior to submitting an application, and all secondary tests prior to interviewing. For more information on prerequisite and secondary exams, including study guides, please visit the Pre-employment testing program website.
  • Physical Test Battery
  • Work Orientation Inventory-Physical/Technical Driving

Purpose, Virtues and Stands
Our Purpose explains "why" we exist:
  • Delivering for our hometowns
  • Serving our planet
  • Leading with love

Our Virtues capture "who" we need to be:
  • Trustworthy
  • Empathetic
  • Curious
  • Tenacious
  • Nimble
  • Owners

Our Stands are "what" we will achieve together:
  • Everyone and everything is always safe
  • Catastrophic wildfires shall stop
  • It is enjoyable to work with and for PG&E
  • Clean and resilient energy for all
  • Our work shall create prosperity for all customers and investors

More About Our Company
EEO
Pacific Gas and Electric Company is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that actively pursues and hires a workforce that reflects the hometowns we serve. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, religion, physical or mental disability status, medical condition, protected veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information or any other factor that is not related to the job.
Employee Privacy Notice The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) goes into effect on January 1, 2020. CCPA grants new and far-reaching privacy rights to all California residents. The law also entitles job applicants, employees and non-employee workers to be notified of what personal information PG&E collects and for what purpose. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed through the following link: Employee Privacy Notice
PG&E will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment in a manner consistent with all state and local laws.

What Pacific Gas and Electric Company employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom