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Hydro Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SANTEE COOPER

HYDRO OPERATOR

Moncks Corner, SC · On-site

$37 - $46.15/hr

Performs electrical switching, conducts lock operations, and takes direction from the System Operator on starting, stopping, and controlling hydro generating units. Essential Job Tasks: * Inspects ...

PTC ALLIANCE LLC

Hydro Operator

Liberty, TX

PTC is a leading manufacturer and marketer of welded and cold-drawn mechanical steel tubing and tubular shapes, plated bar and tubing, and fabricated parts and precision components. We at PTC value ...

Essel

Hydro Vac Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

Essel is seeking a skilled Hydro Vac Operator to join our operations team. This role involves operating hydro excavating equipment to safely and efficiently expose underground utilities, excavate ...

PTC

Hydro Operator

Liberty, TX · On-site

PTC is a leading manufacturer and marketer of welded and cold-drawn mechanical steel tubing and tubular shapes, plated bar and tubing, and fabricated parts and precision components. We at PTC value ...

Zekelman

Hydro Operator Utility

Kansas City, MO

$23.50 - $24.60/hr

Hydro Operator About Us You may not know our name, but you know our products. What we make is part of the places where we live, work, and play - all day, every day. Zekelman is a family of companies ...

Essel

Hydro Vac Operator

Stockton, CA

Essel is seeking a skilled Hydro Vac Operator to join our operations team. This role involves operating hydro excavating equipment to safely and efficiently expose underground utilities, excavate ...

Essel

Hydro Vac Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

Essel is seeking a skilled Hydro Vac Operator to join our operations team. This role involves operating hydro excavating equipment to safely and efficiently expose underground utilities, excavate ...

Zekelman Industries

Hydro Operator Utility

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$23.50 - $24.60/hr

Hydro Operator About Us You may not know our name, but you know our products. What we make is part of the places where we live, work, and play - all day, every day. Zekelman is a family of companies ...

Southern Company

Hydro Operator B

Clarkesville, GA · On-site

JOB SUMMARY The B operator position is an entry level position in the Hydro Plant Operations that is responsible for continuous inspection, monitoring, and troubleshooting of industrial type Hydro ...

Southern Company

Hydro Operator B

Clarkesville, GA · On-site

JOB SUMMARY The B operator position is an entry level position in the Hydro Plant Operations that is responsible for continuous inspection, monitoring, and troubleshooting of industrial type Hydro ...

FlexSteel

FlexSteel - Hydro Operator - I

Baytown, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

The Level 1 Hydro Operator is an entry-level position responsible for supporting and performing basic operational tasks related to hydrostatic testing in pipe production. This role is part of a ...

Cactus Wellhead

FlexSteel - Hydro Operator - I

Baytown, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

The Level 1 Hydro Operator is an entry-level position responsible for supporting and performing basic operational tasks related to hydrostatic testing in pipe production. This role is part of a ...

AAK

3rd shift Hydro Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

3rd shift Hydro Operator Making Better Happen Our story goes back more than 150 years, tothe windy coast where Sweden and Denmark meet. From our success in Scandinavia, we've growninto the world ...

AAK

3rd shift Hydro Operator

Louisville, KY

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

The Hydro Operator is responsible formaintaining this process by reading charts/computer systems, taking severalsamples, and switching valves/controls so the oil/steam/gas is going to theappropriate ...

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Hydro Operator information

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$13

$21

$44

How much do hydro operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro operator in the United States is $21.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Hydro Operator vs Water Treatment Operator?

AspectHydro OperatorWater Treatment Operator
CertificationsHydropower plant certifications, safety trainingWater treatment certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentHydropower plants, dams, hydroelectric facilitiesWater treatment plants, municipal facilities
Industry UsageEnergy, utilities, renewable resourcesPublic health, municipal services, environmental management

While both roles involve operating water-related systems, a Hydro Operator primarily manages hydroelectric power facilities, focusing on energy production and dam operations. In contrast, a Water Treatment Operator handles water purification processes for municipal or industrial water supplies. Both roles require safety certifications and technical skills but serve different industry needs and environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Hydro Operators in their daily work?

Hydro Operators often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to changes in water flow and demand, troubleshooting mechanical or electrical issues with turbines and generators, and maintaining compliance with environmental regulations. They must remain vigilant to ensure the safe and efficient operation of hydroelectric equipment, especially during periods of extreme weather or peak energy demand. Collaborating effectively with maintenance teams and control room staff is essential to address unexpected issues and prevent downtime.

What Is the Job of a Hydro Operator?

A hydro or hydro-vac operator performs non-destructive excavation around sensitive components, such as utility cables and pipelines. In this career, your duties are to excavate using high pressure water blasting equipment and excavate debris using a special vacuum. Your responsibilities as a hydro operator also include maintaining paperwork to document your hydro-vac jobs, conducting regular inspections of your truck and vacuum, and performing routine maintenance and any needed repairs on your hydro-vac equipment. You must be safety conscious to avoid injury to yourself or others, as the equipment you operate can be dangerous.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

Hydro Operators may see a decline in demand as automation, remote monitoring, and advanced control systems increasingly replace manual operations in the energy and water sectors. Jobs requiring routine tasks are more likely to be affected, while roles emphasizing technical skills, maintenance, and system oversight will continue to be essential. Adaptation to new technologies and certifications will be important for future job security.

What are Hydro Operators?

Hydro Operators are professionals responsible for controlling and monitoring the operation of hydroelectric power plants. They manage the flow of water through turbines to generate electricity efficiently and safely, making adjustments based on demand and environmental conditions. Hydro Operators also perform regular inspections, maintain equipment, and respond to emergencies or system malfunctions to ensure continuous and reliable power generation.

How to become a hydro operator?

To become a hydro operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an apprenticeship in hydroelectric power systems. Relevant skills include understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, safety procedures, and the ability to operate control systems and tools; certifications such as OSHA safety training are often required. Gaining experience through entry-level positions or technical programs can also improve job prospects in this field.

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

To thrive as a Hydro Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, knowledge of power plant operations, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification in a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, turbine controls, and regulatory compliance software is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure the reliable and safe operation of hydroelectric plants, supporting energy production and environmental standards.

How much do hydroelectric operators make?

Hydroelectric operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the facility. Salaries can increase with certifications, specialized skills, and overtime work in remote or industrial environments.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Hydro operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, extensive experience, or ownership of a business. Most operational roles in industries like hydroelectric power tend to have lower salary ranges.
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Hydro Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydro Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Contract, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,433 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
HYDRO OPERATOR

HYDRO OPERATOR

SANTEE COOPER

Moncks Corner, SC • On-site

$37 - $46.15/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Santee Cooper rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Position Description:
Supports reliable and efficient operation of hydroelectric units by operating and maintaining the electrical and mechanical systems that comprise or support these units. Performs electrical switching, conducts lock operations, and takes direction from the System Operator on starting, stopping, and controlling hydro generating units.
Essential Job Tasks:
  • Inspects, troubleshoots, installs, and repairs electrical and mechanical equipment used in process of generating electricity at a hydro-electric generating station.
  • Operates, adjusts, and regulates equipment in accordance with the direction of the System Operator to provide reliable and efficient operation of hydro-electric units.
  • Maintains records of operating and environmental data in accordance with procedures and regulations. Creates and maintains records of maintenance performed in the maintenance work management system.
  • Performs inspections of the station and switchyards. Operates equipment in the switchyard under the direction of the System Operator in ECC.
  • Conducts lock operations in accordance with demand and/or biological requirements (fish passage). Manages lock operations so as to provide safe and timely passage for boaters.
  • Conducts station tours as requested.
  • Performs environmental inspections and monitoring in accordance with applicable procedures and regulations.

Position Requirements:
  • High school diploma/GED + 5 years of electrical, mechanical or generation experience required.

Compensation Information:
$37.00 - $46.15 (min. - mid.)

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