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Hydro Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

SiteWise

Hydrovac Operator - CDL-B- Hydro

Henderson, CO

$30 - $33/hr

The Hydrovac Operator is responsible for the successful completion of hydro excavation processes. The incumbent operates Hydrovac, and other machines used in construction to excavate, load, dig or ...

SiteWise

Hydrovac Operator - CDL-B- Hydro

Henderson, CO · On-site

$30 - $33/hr

The Hydrovac Operator is responsible for the successful completion of hydro excavation processes. The incumbent operates Hydrovac, and other machines used in construction to excavate, load, dig or ...

Titan Solutions LLC

Hydro-Vac Operator CO

Greeley, CO · On-site

$28 - $37/hr

Description Titan Solutions, LLC Hydrovac Operator Reports to: Regional Equipment Manager Date Updated: 04/08/2026 Position Summary The hydrovac operator is responsible for the safe and efficient ...

Titan Solutions LLC

Hydro-Vac Operator CO

Greeley, CO

$28 - $37/hr

Titan Solutions, LLC Hydrovac Operator Reports to: Regional Equipment Manager Date Updated: 04/08/2026 Position Summary The hydrovac operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of ...

Miller Pipeline

Hydrovac Truck Operator

Pueblo West, CO · On-site

$35.39 - $36.59/hr

Miller Pipeline is hiring a Hydrovac Truck Operator to assist and support the repair, maintenance ... Safely spot utilities by use of hydro-excavation. * Complete pre-trip on the vehicle at the ...

Miller Pipeline

Hydrovac Truck Operator

Pueblo West, CO

$35.39 - $36.59/hr

Miller Pipeline is hiring a Hydrovac Truck Operator to assist and support the repair, maintenance ... Safely spot utilities by use of hydro-excavation. * Complete pre-trip on the vehicle at the ...

Ranger Energy Services LLC

Operator-Cement

Milliken, CO · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Operator - Cement SUMMARY The primary duty of the Cement Operator is to operate the controls and ... Performs hydro testing as required * Changes the gaskets of the pumps and mixing tops as required

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Hydro Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$13

$22

$47

How much do hydro operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro operator in Colorado is $22.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $24.28 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.
More about Hydro Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Hydro Operator jobs in Colorado? For Hydro Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hydro Operator jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Hydro Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Hydro Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Hydro Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Hydro Operator jobs in CO? For Hydro Operator jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Hydro Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydro Operator job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,722 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Hydro Operator - Gross Reservoir

Denver Water

Golden, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Denver Water rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Working for Denver Water offers a rewarding and comprehensive employment experience marked by exceptional benefits and a strong organizational culture. Employees enjoy a robust 401(k) plan with employer contributions, a secure pension fund to support long-term financial well-being, and high-quality benefits that include a generous PTO package as well as medical, dental, and vision coverage.
At the heart of Denver Water's workplace are its core values: vision, integrity, passion, excellence, and respect. These principles guide every aspect of the organization, fostering a collaborative and purpose-driven environment where employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact on the community and the future of water sustainability.
This role is based out of Denver Water's Gross Reservoir facility. On-call duties require a 1-hour response time to the facility.
Position Summary
Under general supervision, operate and maintain the safe storage and delivery of raw water. Maintain ditches, canals, dams, conduits, reservoirs, culverts, and valves. Perform water changes through operation of valves and hydroelectric turbines.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Take and record a variety of information which include reservoir elevations, stream flow readings and weather data.
  • Maintain patrol of departmental property to prevent vandalism, trespassing, and fires. Cooperate with various local public and private agencies.
  • Maintain liaison with visitors to department facilities and work with local agencies concerning recreational opportunities at these facilities.
  • Operate and maintain hydro power plant operations. Operate and maintain dams, valve houses, intakes, canals, ditches, conduits, flumes, and associated properties.
  • Provide recordkeeping, documentation, reporting, and data entry from internal and external stakeholders.
  • Ensure safe working conditions and practices through inspection.
  • Assist with public relations and recreation activities including tours and orientations.
  • Must be able to perform safety sensitive functions.
  • Perform related work as required.

Education and Experience
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Minimum 4 years of related work experience.
  • Any equivalent combination of certifications, education, or experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities for the position.

Licenses, Registration, and Certifications
  • Hydroelectric Certification required within 12 months of hire.
  • Colorado Water Distribution Class 1 Certificate required within 12 months of appointment.
  • FEMA ICS 100, 200, 700, 800 within 18 months of hire.
  • Must be able to possess and maintain a valid Class 'R' Colorado driver's license and have a satisfactory driving record at time of hire.
  • Must possess a valid Class 'B' Colorado Commercial Driver's license within 12 months of appointment.
  • May be required to possess a valid Class 'A' Colorado Commercials Driver's License within 12 months of appointment.

Safety Sensitive Statement
This is a safety sensitive job where an employee's direct action/inaction may lead to immediate harm to self, team, or the public and/or will have significant risk to the mission of Denver Water. To promote the safety, employees in this job must possess English proficiency adequate to effectively communicate with customers and coworkers, including proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Respiratory Statement
This position is subject to respiratory protection testing as directed per Denver Water Physician.
An offer of employment may be contingent upon satisfactory results of a post-offer drug test and alcohol. Denver Water tests for the following: amphetamines, cocaine, marijuana (THC), opiates, and phencyclidine (PCP). A strength test may also be conducted due to the physical requirements of the position. This strength test may include lifting, pushing, and pulling various amounts of weight as well as crouching, squatting, and lifting one's own body weight from various positions. If the position is deemed safety-sensitive or requires a CDL, you will be placed on the random drug and alcohol testing list, which means you may be tested if your name is selected while employed at Denver Water.
Applicants for employment at Denver Water must be authorized to work in the U.S. Denver Water will not sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa.

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