ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Hydro Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Norsk Hydro

Shipping Loader

Saint Augustine, FL · On-site

$23.03/hr

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... Responsible for the inspection of mobile equipment and cranes to ensure it is in safe operating ...

Norsk Hydro

Shipping Loader

Saint Augustine, FL · On-site

$23.03/hr

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... Responsible for the inspection of mobile equipment and cranes to ensure it is in safe operating ...

Norsk Hydro

Shipping Loader

Saint Augustine, FL · On-site

$23.03/hr

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... Responsible for the inspection of mobile equipment and cranes to ensure it is in safe operating ...

Action Enterprise

Equipment Operator

Orlando, FL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Equipment Operator Department: Direct Labor Location: Orlando, FL Business Unit: Environmental ... Tank cleaning, Hydro excavation, Vacuum loading, Line flushing, High-pressure water blasting ...

Action

Equipment Operator

Orlando, FL

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Equipment Operator Department: Direct Labor Location: Orlando, FL Business Unit: Environmental ... Tank cleaning, Hydro excavation, Vacuum loading, Line flushing, High-pressure water blasting ...

IMPACT Rentals

CDL Hydrovac Operator

Tampa, FL · On-site

Description CDL Hydrovac Operator Company Overview: At VACUTEK Integrated Services, we deliver ... Modern, high-performance hydro and air excavation fleet * Competitive pay with steady hours and ...

Norsk Hydro

PLC Technician

Saint Augustine, FL · On-site

$39 - $46/hr

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... operator, or other maintenance workers to diagnose problem or repair machine. * Dismantles ...

Norsk Hydro

PLC Technician

Saint Augustine, FL · On-site

$39 - $46/hr

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... operator, or other maintenance workers to diagnose problem or repair machine. * Dismantles ...

Hydro North America

PLC Technician

Saint Augustine, FL

$27.50 - $34/hr

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... operator, or other maintenance workers to diagnose problem or repair machine. * Dismantles ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHydro Operator JobsHydro Operator Jobs in Florida

Hydro Operator information

See Florida salary details

$9

$15

$33

How much do hydro operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro operator in Florida is $15.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.49 and $17.26 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 Florida? For Hydro Operator jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hydro Operator jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Hydro Operator jobs in Florida are:
What are popular job titles related to Hydro Operator jobs in FL? For Hydro Operator jobs in FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Hydro Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydro Operator job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,204 per year, or $16 per hour.

Shipping Loader (22479)

Norsk Hydro

Saint Augustine, FL

$23.03/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production sites in 40 countries and employing 20,000 people. Through our unique combination of local expertise, global network, and unmatched R&D capabilities, we can offer everything from standards profiles to advanced development and manufacturing for most industries.  Since 1905, Hydro has turned natural resources into valuable products for people and businesses with focus on a safe and good workplace for our 30,000 employees in more than 140 locations.

What we offer you
  • Medical, Rx, Dental, Disability, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Retirement Savings Plans with Company Match/Contributions
  • Education Assistance
  • Bonus Plan Eligibility
  • Parental Leave
Starting rate of pay:

$23.03

Shifts Available and Hours:

1st Shift Monday - Friday - 7:00 am - 3:00 pm 

What you will be doing
  • Actively participate in the material distribution/relocation utilizing mobile equipment (forklifts, Combi lift, and overhead cranes) to meet KPI goals (production, safety, quality)
  • Loads outbound loads following all safety requirements, and in a manner, that will ensure that the product is delivered in good condition
  • Operates equipment in compliance with safety guidelines. Responsible for the inspection of mobile equipment and cranes to ensure it is in safe operating condition and complete the daily logs for the inspection.
  • Visually inspect loads for quality of product, correct packaging and correct identification tags
  • Observe all safety rules and maintain a clean work area, inside the building and yard.
  • Be responsible for minor maintenance on forklift, brakes, horn, fluid levels and general condition
  • Unload incoming goods and material (scrap, log, extrusions and supplies)
  • Dump scrap trailers and hoppers
What will make you successful?
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent
  • Certified forklift operator or have completed company's forklift training preferred
  • Must have a good driving record
  • Manufacturing experience a plus
  • Preferably a CDL license or have experience driving semi-trucks and/or loading semi-trucks
Equal opportunities

Hydro in North America is an Equal Opportunity Employer where all phases of employment are based strictly upon the qualifications of the individual as related to the work requirements of the position. This policy is applied without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, marital status or any other category protected by law. We strive to provide equal opportunities for all to contribute and succeed with us.

As part of our recruitment process, we may use jobrelated assessments in selected roles. These tools help us better understand workrelated strengths and support a fair and consistent hiring process. Any assessment results are reviewed together with your experience, qualifications, and interviews, and are never used as the sole basis for hiring decisions.

If you need an accommodation in order to complete the application, please contact Hydro Recruiting via email at recruiting.north.america@hydro.com

Apply