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Hydro Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

New

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 ...

New

SiteWise

Hydrovac Operator - CDL-A- 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 ...

SiteWise

Hydrovac Operator - CDL-A- 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 ...

SiteWise

Hydrovac Operator - CDL-A- 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 ...

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All JobsHydro Operator JobsHydro Operator Jobs in Colorado

Hydro Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$13

$22

$47

How much do hydro operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 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 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,722 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Drill Rig Operator

Hydro Resources Holding

Fort Lupton, CO • On-site

$20 - $34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Drill Rig Operator
Summary:

Driller for irrigation, commercial, industrial, and municipal water wells.


Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for the safe and accurate set up of rig and all equipment.
  • Operate drilling rig and associated equipment to drill commercial and industrial water wells, install well heads, well screen, casing, gravel pack and cement grout, and other well fixtures.
  • Document geological formations encountered.
  • Clean and disinfect water wells in preparation for use.
  • Perform routine mechanical maintenance work on drilling rig and equipment.
  • Maintenance of rigs.
  • Must report any and all unsafe conditions.
  • Expected to engage in the safety process and report to Supervisor any time a situation is deemed unsafe.
  • To support / encourage others to help develop a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Supervision and training of crews for underground projects.
  • Client contact on job sites.
  • Operation and maintenance of all pump division equipment, including video van, sonar jet operations, testing and testing equipment and cranes.
  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.


Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Knowledge of types of casing.
  • Knowledge of drill string.
  • Knowledge of thread types.
  • Knowledge of working derricks and drill floor.
  • Ability to travel.
  • Requires willingness to work a flexible schedule.
  • Clean driving record.
  • CDL preferable.
  • Knowledge of Well Control systems and methods – current well control certification desired.


Benefits:

  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Medical insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Short Term Disability
  • Long Term Disability
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program

Equal Opportunity Employer Veterans/Disabled, E-Verify Employer

As part of the pre-employment hiring process at Hydro Resources - Rocky Mountain, all candidates will be required to successfully complete background check, drug screening, and a functional employment assessment to determine physical ability to safely perform the essential functions of the position.

External Company URL: Hydro Resources | Groundwater Exploration and Production (https://hydroresources.com/)