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Hydro Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Benicia, CA · On-site

$62.25/hr

Badger Infrastructure Solutions is the industry leader in non-destructive hydro-excavation ... Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working environments ...

McWane, Inc.

MPI Exeter - Machine Operator Valve

Exeter, CA · On-site

$22 - $23/hr

... water delivery, hydro-power, and flood control management. We are a leading provider of water ... The Machine Operator is responsible for maintaining valve inventory and processing valve orders for ...

GovernmentJobs.com

TEMP - Program Assistant

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$41K - $52K/yr

... repairs, hydro-flushing activities, CCTV inspections of sewer mains, stormwater infrastructure inspections, pump station maintenance support, and preparing and operating service vehicles and ...

ADB

QA/QC Specialist

Sacramento, CA

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

City of Pleasanton

TEMP - Program Assistant

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$41K - $52K/yr

... repairs, hydro-flushing activities, CCTV inspections of sewer mains, stormwater infrastructure inspections, pump station maintenance support, and preparing and operating service vehicles and ...

ITT CANNON LLC

Assembly Operator II

Santa Rosa, CA

$21.44 - $32.02/hr

Ability to: visually inspect, hydro-static testing, electrical testing of finished good assemblies * Mechanical aptitude, to use tools such as cutters measuring tapes, etc. * Perform the same task ...

ITT Inc. - English US

Assembly Operator II

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.44 - $32.02/hr

Ability to: visually inspect, hydro-static testing, electrical testing of finished good assemblies * Mechanical aptitude, to use tools such as cutters measuring tapes, etc. * Perform the same task ...

ITT Inc. - English US

Assembly Operator II

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.44 - $32.02/hr

Ability to: visually inspect, hydro-static testing, electrical testing of finished good assemblies * Mechanical aptitude, to use tools such as cutters measuring tapes, etc. * Perform the same task ...

ITT CANNON LLC

Assembly Operator II

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.44 - $32.02/hr

Ability to: visually inspect, hydro-static testing, electrical testing of finished good assemblies * Mechanical aptitude, to use tools such as cutters measuring tapes, etc. * Perform the same task ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsHydro Operator JobsHydro Operator Jobs in California

Hydro Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$21

$44

How much do hydro operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro operator in California is $21.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $22.79 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.
More about Hydro Operator jobs

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What are popular job titles related to Hydro Operator jobs in CA?

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Hydro Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydro Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,851 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Hydrovac Operator

Badger Daylighting

Benicia, CA • On-site

$62.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Are you enthusiastic about safe excavation and skilled in operating hydrovac equipment? Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently, uncover utilities, and contribute to various construction projects. If you're detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and ready to be part of essential infrastructure work, apply now to join our dedicated team.

 
Salary: Union wages ($62.25) and benefits to be discussed directly with the Branch Manager.
Badger Infrastructure Solutions is the industry leader in non-destructive hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge technology and providing services to a diverse customer base, including oil and gas, energy, industrial, construction, transportation and other markets, as well as numerous government agencies within Canada and the United States. 

We hire great people from a wide array of backgrounds, not because it is the right thing to do, but because it makes Badger stronger. 

There has never been a better time to join and grow with Badger.
What We're Looking For:
  • Must have a valid Class A or B CDL
  • CPR/First Aid, Fall Protection and OSHA 10 certification (preferred)
  • Experience driving a manual transmission (10-18 speed) without automatic restrictions (preferred)
  • Ability to work variable shifts with extended hours
  • Must be willing to travel up to 25%
  • Must be able to lift, push, pull 50+ pounds and have the physical stamina for manual labor in varying weather conditions
  • Prior hydrovac equipment operations or related industrial experience preferred
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
What You'll Need For Success:
  • Customer service focused and comfortable with customer interaction
  • Enthusiasm for being part of a safety-focused collaborative team
  • Technology adept
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided
  • Candidates must undergo a physical examination and complete pre-employment screenings such as a driver's abstract review and drug and alcohol test
  • This position is in a region that is covered under a collective bargaining agreement, the successful applicant may be required to join the union as a condition of employment
If you feel you don't have the experience listed above, but still think you are qualified for the job, we encourage you to apply for consideration.

What You'll Be Doing:
  • Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working environments, including confined spaces
  • Driving our hydrovac trucks (10-15% of total work time)
  • Attending safety meetings
  • Performing routine inspections and minor repairs of the hydrovac equipment
  • Preparing work areas by setting up safety measures and addressing potential hazards
  • Documenting and reporting all Badger, Federal, State, and Customer paperwork accurately and efficiently

Apply