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Hydro Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Hydro-Gear

Senior CNC Technician

Sullivan, IL

Hydro-Gear is a world leader in the design and production of precision drive solutions, serving ... Interact with and support production operators in a positive and encouraging manner * Effectively ...

New

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Melvin, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... hydro, wind, and solar sources, capable of powering approximately 27 million homes. Our culture and ... Once the Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license is obtained, total compensation eligibility ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Oreana, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... geothermal, hydro, wind, and solar, capable of powering approximately 27 million homes. Our ... Upon obtaining the Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license, total compensation eligibility increases ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Urbana, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... hydro, wind, and solar, enough to supply energy to approximately 27 million households. Our ... Upon obtaining the Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license, total compensation eligibility increases ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

San Jose, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... geothermal, hydro, wind, and solar, capable of powering approximately 27 million homes. Our ... Upon obtaining the Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license, total compensation eligibility increases ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Odell, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... geothermal, hydro, wind, and solar, enough to power approximately 27 million households. Our ... Upon obtaining the Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license, total compensation eligibility increases ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Pesotum, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... hydro, wind, and solar sources, capable of powering approximately 27 million homes. Our culture and ... Once the Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license is obtained, total compensation eligibility ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Chenoa, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... hydro, wind, and solar, enough to supply energy to approximately 27 million households. Our ... Upon obtaining the Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license, total compensation eligibility increases ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... hydro, wind, and solar sources, capable of powering approximately 27 million homes. Our culture and ... Once the Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license is obtained, total compensation eligibility ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Buffalo, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... hydro, wind, and solar, enough to supply energy to approximately 27 million households. Our ... Upon obtaining the Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license, total compensation eligibility increases ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Elliott, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... hydro, wind, and solar sources, capable of powering approximately 27 million homes. Our culture and ... Once the Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license is obtained, total compensation eligibility ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Weldon, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... geothermal, hydro, wind, and solar, capable of powering approximately 27 million homes. Our ... Upon obtaining the Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license, total compensation eligibility increases ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Decatur, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... hydro, wind, and solar, enough to supply energy to approximately 27 million households. Our ... Upon obtaining the Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license, total compensation eligibility increases ...

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All JobsHydro Operator JobsHydro Operator Jobs in Illinois

Hydro Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$20

$43

How much do hydro operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro operator in Illinois is $20.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $22.36 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.
More about Hydro Operator jobs

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The top searched job categories for Hydro Operator jobs in Illinois are:

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Hydro Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydro Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,057 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Senior CNC Technician

Hydro-Gear

Sullivan, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Hydro-Gear rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

420th of 494 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Are you a hands-on, technically skilled leader who excels at machining setup, drives equipment performance, and takes ownership of quality, safety, and continuous improvement in a fast-paced aluminum production environment? If so, this position may be a great fit for you. As a Senior CNC Technican, you will set-up and ensure aluminum machining equipment is producing parts to documented specifications and support the production cell. You will work both independently and collaboratively to meet safety, quality, delivery, and productivity goals while maintaining program standards.

* Please note, we are not able to consider candidates who currently or in the future will require visa sponsorship.

Hydro-Gear is a world leader in the design and production of precision drive solutions, serving multiple industries and delivering to customers worldwide. Our passion is innovation and a commitment to making our customers successful. Learn more about us at Hydro-Gear.com.

Job Type: Full-time located in Sullivan, IL

Benefits: Link for Benefits and Pay Range or copy the following in a browser

https://www.hydro-gear.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Senior-CNC-Technician.pdf

Benefits:

  • Weekly Paychecks!
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) combines vacation, sick, personal days for flexibility of time off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Retirement Plans
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
  • Health & Wellness Program Benefits with incentives
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Core Responsibilities of our Senior CNC Technician:

  • Perform aluminum machining equipment set-up to meet part/process specifications
  • Ensure aluminum machining equipment stays in good working order and is producing parts to part/process specifications - work with maintenance, manufacturing engineering, and others to resolve issues
  • Support the production cell from a technical standpoint to meet goals for and improve safety, quality, delivery, and productivity performance
  • Monitor the quality of parts - and lead containment efforts for nonconforming materials
  • Interact with and support production operators in a positive and encouraging manner
  • Effectively communicate production cell equipment performance to the next shift
  • Timely communicate any risks to safety, quality, delivery, and productivity performance to production leadership
  • Participate in and be a leader for 6S organization efforts
  • Adhere to company policies, procedures, standard works, work instructions, and other instructions

At Hydro-Gear, we offer a collaborative environment, professional growth opportunities, and the ability to make a real impact in a fast-paced manufacturing setting. Our commitment to innovation and continuous improvement makes this an exciting place to thrive, lead change, and drive meaningful results.

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