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Hydro Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zekelman

Hydro Operator

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$25/hr

About the Role Atlas Tube, a subsidiary of Zekelman Industries, is seeking a Hydro Operator for our North Kansas City, MO facility. This role is responsible for operating the Hydrotester, ensuring ...

Zekelman Industries

Hydro Operator

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$25/hr

About the Role Atlas Tube, a subsidiary of Zekelman Industries, is seeking a Hydro Operator for our North Kansas City, MO facility. This role is responsible for operating the Hydrotester, ensuring ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

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 ...

Boralex

Technician - Hydro Operator

Potsdam, NY · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

As a Hydro Operator, you will be responsible for the operation, maintenance and repair of hydroelectric generator systems. With the mentorship of an experienced Hydro Operator, your main tasks will ...

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 AB

3rd shift Hydro Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Hydro Operator information

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$13

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$44

How much do hydro operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 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 a hydro operator?

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.

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.

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 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.

How much does a hydro operator make?

A hydro operator typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the hydroelectric facility. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher salaries. The role often requires knowledge of control systems, safety protocols, and environmental regulations.

Is it hard to become a hydro operator?

Becoming a hydro operator typically requires technical training, understanding of electrical and mechanical systems, and sometimes a relevant certification or license. The role involves working in industrial environments and may require physical stamina and safety knowledge, but the difficulty varies based on individual background and training opportunities.
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Hydro Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydro Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,433 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Hydro Operator

Zekelman

Kansas City, MO • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

You may not know our name, but you know our products. What we make is part the places where we live, work and play - all day, everyday.

Zekelman is a family of companies - 100% domestic manufacturers - with a legacy dating back to 1877. We're proud to be the largest independent steel pipe and tube manufacturer in North America and the leading innovator in multi-family housing development.

We believe in what we build and what we build, builds the world around us. Hospitals, hotels, schools, bridges, airports and more.

Come build a career you believe in.

About the Role

Atlas Tube, a subsidiary of Zekelman Industries, is seeking a Hydro Operator for our North Kansas City, MO facility. This role is responsible for operating the Hydrotester, ensuring the quality of production, and maintaining safety compliance. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, mechanically inclined, and thrives in a team-oriented environment.

Shift: 3rd Shift 7:00 PM - 5:30 AM
Pay: $25/hour plus Production Bonus

What You'll Do

  • Operates hydrotest machinery to ensure proper functionality.

  • Inputs grooving dimensions for quality assurance and maintains routine production records.

  • Oversees set-up and operation of robots.

  • Assists hydro team members with grooving processes as needed.

  • Communicates with shippers regarding material needs at entry and inventory management at the exit end.

  • Performs preventative maintenance as necessary.

  • Maintains a clean and organized work area at all times.

  • Submits detailed and accurate work orders for equipment issues that cannot be resolved by the operator or team members.

  • Successfully completes On-the-Job Training (OJT) and Job Safety Analysis (JSA) training.

  • Cross-trains others for the position and is open to cross-training in other roles.

  • Complies with OSHA guidelines affecting machine operations, including Lockout/Tagout procedures.

  • Attends all scheduled company and safety meetings.

  • Follows and enforces company safety policies and best practices.

  • Demonstrates teamwork and cooperation with other employees and supervisors.

Who You Are

  • Basic computer and mathematics knowledge.

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

  • Self-motivated with problem-solving skills.

  • Ability to maintain and document quality records.

  • Strong safety orientation and mechanical comprehension.

  • Detail-oriented, responsible, and achievement-driven.

Physical & Work Requirements

  • Required use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

  • Use of various hand tools and equipment as needed.

  • Ability to work occasional overtime.

  • Warehouse environment with an uncontrolled climate year-round.

  • Exposure to a dusty and noisy work environment within OSHA guidelines.

  • Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts.

What You'll Get

Zekelman Industries offers competitive compensation and excellent benefits, including low-cost, high-quality medical and dental benefits. In addition, we have an amazing tuition assistance program, a bonus plan, a 401(k) plan with a generous company match, loyalty awards, and much more:

  • Competitive Compensation

  • Bonus Plan & Profit-Sharing Opportunities

  • 401(k) with Company Match

  • Comprehensive Health, Dental & Vision Insurance

  • Tuition Assistance Program

  • Paid Vacation & Holidays

  • Employee Loyalty Awards

Zekelman Industries offers competitive compensation and excellent benefits, including low-cost, high-quality medical and dental benefits.In addition, we have an amazing tuition assistance program, a bonus plan, a 401(k) plan with a generous company match, immediate vesting, and much more.

M/F/D/V

We are Zekelman Industries.

We manufacture superior quality tubular and related products, and provide outstanding service for our valued customers.

We seek to continuously advance the skills and opportunities of our employees, utilizing the latest technology and management tools available to consistently increase profitability and the enterprise value of Zekelman Industries and of our customers.

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