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Hydro Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Denver Water

Hydro Operator - Gross Reservoir

Golden, CO · On-site

$18.25 - $22/hr

Operate and maintain hydro power plant operations. Operate and maintain dams, valve houses, intakes, canals, ditches, conduits, flumes, and associated properties. * Provide recordkeeping ...

SiteWise

Hydrovac Operator - CDL-A- 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-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

$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 ...

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 ...

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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 Jun 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 is the highest paying operator job?

The highest paying operator jobs are often in specialized fields such as offshore oil and gas platform operators, nuclear power plant operators, or industrial plant operators with advanced certifications. These roles typically require extensive experience, technical skills, and sometimes hazardous environment training, leading to higher salaries compared to standard operator positions.

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.

How to become a hydroelectric operator?

To become a hydroelectric operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an associate degree in fields like electrical, mechanical, or industrial technology. Relevant experience in power plant operations, knowledge of control systems, and safety certifications such as OSHA are often required; some positions may also require a state license or certification. On-the-job training is common, and strong problem-solving skills are essential for maintaining and operating hydroelectric equipment safely and efficiently.

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.

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 jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Hydro operators can potentially earn around $10,000 per month with experience, certifications, and working in high-demand industrial or energy sectors. These roles often require technical skills, safety training, and sometimes union membership, but they do not always require a college degree. High-paying positions in skilled trades or specialized fields may also reach this income level without a degree.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Hydro Operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily pay is usually associated with specialized roles like offshore drilling managers, senior engineers, or consultants in high-demand industries. These positions often require extensive experience, certifications, and working in challenging environments, and they may involve long shifts or offshore work.
More about Hydro Operator jobs
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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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 2% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 27% Contract. 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.
Hydro Operator - Roberts Tunnel

Hydro Operator - Roberts Tunnel

Denver Water

Grant, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Employee is required to live in Denver Water provided housing on site at the Roberts Tunnel Facility near Bailey, Colorado.

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.

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.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position does not have formal supervisory responsibilities over other employees.

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.

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