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Hydro Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mead & Hunt

Hydromechanical Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Troubleshooting mechanical systems in hydro plants * Preparing technical reports that summarize ... Engineering projects in a utility power plant setting * Specifying and designing mechanical ...

Mead & Hunt

Hydromechanical Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$100K - $144K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Troubleshooting mechanical systems in hydro plants * Prepare technical reports that summarize ... Engineering projects in a utility power plant setting * Specifying and designing mechanical ...

Redolent, Inc.

Mechanical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Experience integrating mechanical or hydro-mechanical components into system design. Experience working on an Agile team and with Agile Engineering processes. Controls systems and/or RSLogix ...

PG&E Corporation

Field Design Engineer

Auberry, CA · On-site

$45.96/hr

Our hydro facilities include 62 conventional hydro powerhouses, a pumped-storage facility, 98 ... Field Design Engineers perform a full range of advanced duties under guidance of management and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsHydro Engineer JobsHydro Engineer Jobs in California

Hydro Engineer information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$94.5K

$125.8K

How much do hydro engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydro engineer in California is $94,542.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,900.00 and $114,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hydro engineer?

Hydro engineers, also known as hydrological or hydraulic engineers, are professionals who specialize in the study and management of water resources. They design, develop, and oversee projects such as dams, water treatment plants, flood control systems, and irrigation networks. Their work involves analyzing the movement, distribution, and quality of water to support sustainable development and prevent water-related hazards. Hydro engineers often collaborate with environmental scientists, civil engineers, and government agencies to ensure efficient and safe water management solutions.

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

To thrive as a Hydro Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, with expertise in hydraulics, hydrology, and water resource management, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure (e.g., PE). Familiarity with industry-standard design software (like AutoCAD, HEC-RAS, and GIS), as well as knowledge of regulatory frameworks, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, project management, and effective communication skills help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and sustainable design and management of water-related infrastructure projects.

What are some common challenges faced by hydro engineers when working on large-scale hydroelectric projects?

Hydro Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing environmental concerns with project objectives, managing complex site logistics, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—including environmental scientists, civil engineers, and local authorities—is essential to address issues like fish migration, sediment management, and community impact. These projects typically require strong problem-solving skills and adaptability, as unexpected weather conditions or geological discoveries can impact project timelines and budgets.

What is the difference between Hydro Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectHydro EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil, Mechanical, or Environmental Engineering; often requires PE or FE certificationBachelor's in Civil Engineering; PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentHydropower plants, dams, water resource projectsConstruction sites, infrastructure projects, urban planning
Industry UsageWater resources, renewable energy, hydropowerConstruction, transportation, urban development

Hydro Engineers focus on water-related projects like dams and hydropower, requiring specialized knowledge in water systems. Civil Engineers have a broader scope, working on various infrastructure projects. Both roles often share similar credentials and work environments, but Hydro Engineers specialize in water resources and energy projects.

How much do hydro engineers make?

Hydro engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and level of education. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in water resource management or project design can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000. Salaries may also vary based on industry sector and employer size.

What are the most commonly searched types of Hydro Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Hydro Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Hydro Engineer jobs in California?

For Hydro Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hydro Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Hydro Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Hydro Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Hydro Engineer job openings:

Hydro Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydro Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $94,542 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

Hydromechanical Engineer

Mead & Hunt

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Mead & Hunt rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

286th of 449 rated engineering

Job description

Mead & Hunt, a nationally recognized professional services consulting firm, has a position open for a highly motivated hydromechanical engineer to join our collaborative and innovative water resources team.
Responsibilities include:
  • Working as the project engineer, technical lead, and/or project manager on water resources-related mechanical engineering projects including water pumping and piping systems, pumps, turbines, valves, radial gates, and hydraulic power unit-related projects
  • Attending client meetings and interacting with clients
  • Preparing reports and other project documents
  • Troubleshooting mechanical systems in hydro plants
  • Preparing technical reports that summarize findings, analysis, and recommendations
  • Preparing and reviewing drawing packages and technical specifications suitable for construction
  • Traveling to project or client sites

The successful candidate must have:
  • A bachelor's degree (or higher) in mechanical engineering from an ABET accredited college or university
  • At least eight (8) years of relevant work experience with rotating equipment, hydro plants, and/or pump stations
  • PE license in any state with the ability to obtain in California within six months of start date

The ideal candidate will have experience with any/all of the following:
  • Engineering projects in a utility power plant setting
  • Specifying and designing mechanical components and features for hydroelectric generation stations
  • Client management
  • Power station systems experience: cooling water, lube oil, governor hydraulics, compressed air (HVAC is a plus)
  • Engaging with professional associations: ASME, NHA, CEATI, ACEC, etc.
  • Large valves, turbines, piping systems, rotating equipment, heavy machinery, and engineering design
  • Mentoring less experienced staff
  • CAD and/or engineering design software for design and plan development

If you have strong communication and organizational skills, are self-motivated, and can work well both independently and as part of a team, complete the online application process for this job posting at www.meadhunt.com/careers.
Mead & Hunt proudly offers medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, paid sick leave, parental leave, a 401K plan with a generous company match, life and disability insurance, and an employee assistance program.
Salary Range: $140,000 to $180,000 - Actual compensation may vary due to other factors such as: experience, skills set or location.
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of applicable pre-employment screening requirements.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.
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