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Hydro Operator Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Hydro-Excavator Operator

Richmond Hill, GA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

Hydro Excavator Operator! Drive a Class B tanker truck & safely expose underground utilities using high-pressure water & vacuum. CDL & travel required. Be part of a premier service team that values ...

Hydro Excavators, LLC system is a non-destructive method of excavating as an alternative to ... Overhaul and test machines or equipment to ensure operating efficiency. * Fit bearings to adjust ...

Hydro Excavators, LLC system is a non-destructive method of excavating as an alternative to ... Overhaul and test machines or equipment to ensure operating efficiency. * Fit bearings to adjust ...

CNC Programmer

Gainesville, GA · On-site

$30.96/hr

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... operating a computer numerical control (CNC) machine; maintaining quality and safety standards ...

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... operating a computer numerical control (CNC) machine; maintaining quality and safety standards ...

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... Directs the development of annual operating plans, departmental budgets, monthly/quarterly ...

CNC Programmer

Gainesville, GA · On-site

$30.96/hr

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... operating a computer numerical control (CNC) machine; maintaining quality and safety standards ...

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... Directs the development of annual operating plans, departmental budgets, monthly/quarterly ...

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... Directs the development of annual operating plans, departmental budgets, monthly/quarterly ...

CNC Programmer

Gainesville, GA · On-site

$30.96/hr

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... and operating a computer numerical control ( CNC ) machine; maintaining quality and safety ...

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Showing results 1-20

Hydro Operator information

See Georgia salary details

$11

$18

$37

How much do hydro operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro operator in Georgia is $18.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $19.47 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.

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

For Hydro Operator jobs in GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Hydro Operator job openings in Georgia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,519 per year, or $18 per hour.

Apprentice Hydro Operator/Journeyman Hydro Operator/Repairman

Martinez, GA • On-site

Dominion Energy
Utilities • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Dominion Energy rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Dominion Energy is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean energy that powers our customers every day. If you want to work for a purpose-driven company that values safety and collaboration, we're looking for you. You won't just find a job here; you'll find your career. Review the position below and apply today.
Military service members and veterans with ranks from E3-E5, W1-W2, or O1-O3, plus appropriate equivalent combination of education and years of experience as outlined below will be considered for this opportunity.
Job Summary
This position is responsible for maintaining and operating all plant related equipment to include hydro plant generators, exciters, switchgear, breakers, governors, pumps, plc control systems, trash rake system, flashboards, portable mobile equipment, and all other plant equipment. The main responsibility for Stevens Creek Hydro is maintaining the Savannah River Flows by operating the hydro units and resetting flashboards on the spill way. Other responsibilities include removing and disposing river debris from the hydro unit intake and flashboards. Additional responsibilities include maintaining the surrounding plant grounds, debris piles, janitorial systems, and other duties as requested or assigned.
Stevens Creek Hydro Plant is located at 406 Stevens Creek Road at Martinez Georgia.
The normal work schedule is Monday through Friday, 7am to 3:30pm, 40 hours per week. This position requires reporting to work every third weekend, both Saturday and Sunday. It also requires being on call every third week, Monday through Sunday. Working on holidays, additional overtime, and/or night shifts are also required. This also includes responding to additional call outs 7/24 when additional help is needed for the plant.
Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Experience
Apprentice Hydro Operator/Repairman (Steps 1 through 8)
  • 0-4 years of experience in industrial environment, experience performing duties associated with mechanical/electrical/instrumentation maintenance

Journeyman Hydro Operator/Repairman
  • 4 or more years of equivalent related experience in industrial environment, experience performing duties associated with mechanical/electrical/ instrumentation maintenance

Skills
  • Replace water pumps, cooling coils, wire rope cables, and others.
  • Service high and low voltage breakers, fuses, diodes, and others.
  • Operating and working from boats and barges.
  • Welding and mechanical skills.
  • Trouble shooting electrical circuits associated with protective relays and controls.
  • Heavy equipment such as log loader, roll off truck, overhead crane, and others.
  • Grass cutting.
  • Operate a chain saw.

Abilities:
  • Be physically fit.
  • Be able to perform; heaving lifting at a minimum of 50 pounds, able to work from a barge on the river, work standing for prolonged periods, work outside during inclement weather if necessary, and work in confined spaces and tight quarters.
  • Be available to work overtime, call outs, night shifts, weekends, and holidays to support plant conditions as well as emergency and upset conditions as they occur.
  • Live within one hour of plant to respond to call outs after hours and weekends.
  • Be able to wear a respirator and maintain annual respirator clearance.
  • Have a working knowledge of computer operations and Microsoft Office products.

Education Requirements
  • A GED or High School diploma is required.
  • A two-year associate's degree in industrial electronics or equivalent is preferred.

Licenses, Certifications, or Quals Description
Working Conditions
Confined spaces Up to 25%
Loud Noise Up to 25%
Operating Machinery 76-100%
Office Work Environment Up to 25%
Other Working Conditions
Test Description
This job requires recommended test results from the EEI Power Plant Maintenance Selection System (MASS) aptitude test, administered on site during the pre-employment process. To view the practice test, cut and paste the following URL in your browser, https://careers.dominionenergy.com/content/Pre-Employment-Testing/
Export Control
Certain positions at Dominion Energy may involve access to information and technology subject to export controls under U.S. law. Compliance with these export controls may result in Dominion Energy limiting its consideration of certain applicants.
Other Information
We offer excellent plans and programs for employees. Employees are rewarded with a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package which may include: health benefits with coverage for families and domestic partners, vacation, retirement plans, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, and much more. To learn more about our benefits, click here dombenefits.com.
Dominion Energy is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin and/or status as a protected veteran or individual with a disability.
You can experience the excitement of our company - it's the difference between taking a job and starting a career.
Top 3 Reasons to Work at Dominion Energy
There are many reasons to work at Dominion Energy, but below are the top three reasons employees have shared with us. Click on each of the links to learn more!
1. Safety Centric Work Environment
2. Generous Pay and Benefits
3. Collaborative & Inclusive Culture

About Dominion Energy
I am your warm cup of coffee in the morning and I light your home at night. I am the cool breeze from your A/C on the hottest day in summer, and the red coil that heats your soup pot on a frigid winter's day. I am sustainable, reliable and affordable.
I am not just any energy... I am Dominion Energy.
We're transforming the way we do business to build a more sustainable future for the planet, our customers, our team and our industry. We're shaping the future of energy in America.
Join us!

Facts:
• 17,000 employees
• Headquarters: Richmond, VA
• 16 states in the US
• $100 billion of assets
• Nearly $35 million in charitable contributions
• 100,000+ volunteer hours recorded in the community
Our Commitment to NetZero by 2050
Dominion Energy is committed to helping address climate change. We have cut emissions sharply as we aim for Net Zero carbon and methane emissions by 2050. Learn more at sustainability.dominionenergy.com.

What Dominion Energy employees say

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Dominion Energy logo

About Dominion Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a leader in the clean energy transition, with a clear strategy to achieve Net Zero carbon and methane emissions. Headquartered in Richmond, VA, we're creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Richmond, VA, US

Year founded

1983

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