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Hydro Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Wedron, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Urbana, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Mahomet, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Verona, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Dawson, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Chestnut, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Buffalo, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Clinton, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Elliott, IL · On-site

$191K/yr

... hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

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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 21, 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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What job categories do people searching Hydro Operator jobs in Illinois look for?

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

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

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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.

Forklift Operator - 2nd shift

Keller Logistics Group

Mattoon, IL • On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

We are now hiring a 2nd-shift forklift operator to join the team at our Mattoon location! Located at 4101 DeWitt Avenue, Mattoon, IL 61938. If you're looking for long-term employment with a company you can grow with, this is the position for you!
Keller is hiring to support Hydro-Gear operations. Our team is located within the Hydro-Gear building and serves as the dedicated warehouse partner, working closely with Hydro-Gear to support daily operations. Must pass a drug screen and a criminal background check prior to employment.
Hours are 2 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Job Overview: You will not be on a forklift all day for this position. The ideal candidate will be pulling an electric pallet jack and using a reach truck/turret truck to pick orders from the racks. You will also be lifting up to 40 pounds repeatedly throughout the day to gather the orders. Must not be afraid of heights.
What you'll be doing:
• Check with Supervisor or Clerk for job orders.
• At the beginning of each shift, inspect the powered industrial truck. Check for damage or problems and report them to your Supervisor. Document inspection on pre-operation inspection sheet.
• Lockout / tag out unsafe or inoperable equipment.
• Load, unload, and place product in proper storage bay stacked straight and neat.
• Verify counts of incoming product, make necessary adjustments on paperwork, and initial any changes.
• Ensure inbound and outbound shipments are free of damage and document or report immediately to supervisor.
• Sign and date the paperwork when load is finished.
• Accurately input information as trained with scanner, documenting all functions performed.
• Ship accurate number of pieces per load worksheet.
• Assist with inventory counts and proper stock rotation.
• Change propane tanks properly and safely and change and charge batteries as needed.
• Answer phones and take accurate messages.
• Operate copy and fax machine as needed.
• Use radio equipment for communication in a respectable manner.
• Duties associated with housekeeping (throw away trash and sweep floors) and follow and maintain 5S standards.
• Comply with OSHA standards and use safety equipment as required (eye and ear protection, back supports, and fall protection).
• Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
• Report immediately any and all incidents occurring on the forklift (i.e. damage to property, near misses, accidents, etc.)
What we're looking for:
• Ability to work safely, follow safety procedures, and operate equipment safely, and able to recognize and respond to unsafe working conditions.
• Ability to communicate effectively with Supervisor and other associates.
• Ability to take direction from Supervisor.
• Ability to get along well with others in the organization.
• Ability to establish priorities, work independently, and proceed with objectives with supervision.
• Ability to count accurately.
• Knowledge of WMS system and KOS system.
• Knowledge of Industrial Truck Operational Procedures, including the ability to handle product without damage and the ability to use clamps, forks, and other attachments as needed.
Special Requirements

  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must obtain Industrial Truck Certification through in house training.
  • Must be willing to work overtime, weekends, and holidays as requested by Supervisor.
  • Steel Toe Shoes, Safety Glasses, and reflective vest/high-visibility shirts are required, as specified by facility.
  • Must be in good physical condition.
  • Requires lifting and sorting of packages.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. on a regular basis.

Keller Logistics Group is an asset-based third party logistics (3PL) provider headquartered in Defiance, Ohio. We got our start in 1978 as Thomas E. Keller Trucking and have since evolved into four affiliate companies: Keller Trucking, Keller Warehousing & Co-Packing, Keller Freight Solutions and Keller Industrial Properties.
Our employees are empowered and trusted as experts in their field of work. We value transparency and encourage our staff to be their best through our culture of "Responsive, Resourceful, Reliable People in Logistics". We value teamwork, collaboration and respectful interactions with each other. Our people hold themselves accountable for a job well done, with high standards of integrity. We look for ways to continually improve our processes to make us more efficient for ourselves and our clients. Finally, we value safety among all else. Time is money, but life is priceless!
Inc. 5000 named us among the Fastest Growing Private Companies in America, we have consistently been named a Top 3PL by Food Logistics magazine, and the Truckload Carriers Association has recognized us numerous times on their list of Best Fleets to Drive For.
Keller Logistics Group provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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