1

Hydro Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Industrial Cleaning Labor

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Operating a vac-truck and hydro blasting. * Assist in organizing inventory and equipment. * Promote safe workplace by participating in safety training, identifying job hazards, wearing correct PPE ...

Operating a vac-truck and hydro blasting. * Assist in organizing inventory and equipment. * Promote safe workplace by participating in safety training, identifying job hazards, wearing correct PPE ...

Operating a vac-truck and hydro blasting. * Assist in organizing inventory and equipment. * Promote safe workplace by participating in safety training, identifying job hazards, wearing correct PPE ...

Industrial Cleaning Labor

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Operating a vac-truck and hydro blasting. * Assist in organizing inventory and equipment. * Promote safe workplace by participating in safety training, identifying job hazards, wearing correct PPE ...

Has performed at least 1 year of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini, plow, hydro, etc.); fully trained in all safety regulations of operating heavy equipment

Has performed at least 1 year of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini, plow, hydro, etc.); fully trained in all safety regulations of operating heavy equipment

Has performed at least 1 year of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini, plow, hydro, etc.); fully trained in all safety regulations of operating heavy equipment

Has performed at least 1 year of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini, plow, hydro, etc.); fully trained in all safety regulations of operating heavy equipment

Basic level equipment operations that could include operating directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, etc. with constant guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets production ...

Basic level equipment operations that could include operating directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, etc. with constant guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets production ...

Basic level equipment operations that could include operating directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, etc. with constant guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets production ...

Basic level equipment operations that could include operating directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, etc. with constant guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets production ...

Plumber

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site

$65K - $150K/yr

Zoom Drain - Independently Owned & Operated Location Location: Indianapolis, IN (Serving ... Conduct drain cleaning services- experience with snakes, hydro-jetters, and cameras a plus

Plumber

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

Zoom Drain - Independently Owned & Operated Location Location: Indianapolis, IN (Serving ... Conduct drain cleaning services- experience with snakes, hydro-jetters, and cameras a plus

Through our industry-leading businesses - Rhinestahl and HYDRO Systems - we deliver capability ... Serving as a primary point of contact and operating daily within a customer's engine MRO shop, the ...

Assembly Technician

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Operate and trouble shoot equipment such as electro etchers, hydro test pumps, vacuum pumps, etc ... High noise levels from operating machines. * Physical hazards from moving equipment and production ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Hydro Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$20

$42

How much do hydro operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro operator in Indiana is $20.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $21.97 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.
What are popular job titles related to Hydro Operator jobs in IN? For Hydro Operator jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Hydro Operator job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,281 per year, or $20.3 per hour.
Industrial Cleaning Labor

Industrial Cleaning Labor

HTH Companies

Indianapolis, IN โ€ข On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Company Description:

hth companies is an industrial services provider offering mechanical insulation, mechanical maintenance, scaffolding, industrial cleaning, and various other services to meet our customers' needs across the Midwest. At hth companies, we continue to promote the merit shop philosophy we were founded upon in 1984; rewarding employees based upon their merits of skills, productivity, and quality workmanship. Our vision is to be an organization that creates an environment where employees are encouraged to develop their full potential to provide quality work. We strive each day to better serve our customers and employees.

Position Overview:

The Industrial Cleaning Laborer will be working mostly outdoors in industrial construction environments, performing a variety of tasks depending on the needs of the job scope. Laborers will be expected to assist in industrial cleaning, job site cleanup and preparation, and more, with a safety-first mentality. Use of hand tools will be required. Candidate must be willing to work outdoors in all types of weather or in buildings without heating or air conditioning.


Responsibilities and Duties:

  • Assist in industrial cleaning, job site cleanup and preparation.
  • Loading and unloading, cleaning, shoveling.
  • Operating a vac-truck and hydro blasting.
  • Assist in organizing inventory and equipment.
  • Promote safe workplace by participating in safety training, identifying job hazards, wearing correct PPE, and observing for oneself and others.
  • Take care of company owned or rented equipment.
  • Actively champions a positive workplace and safety culture.
  • Performs various other duties and functions as required or assigned.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience

  • Candidate must be knowledgeable of different high-pressure hydro blast equipment including the different tips and pressures ranging from 10,000 psi- 40,000 psi.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Working understanding of safety principles, practices, and procedures.
  • Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
  • Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.

Personal Characteristics

  • Follows directions of manager / lead / superintendent and clarifies responsibilities if needed.
  • Respects self, co-workers, managers, company, other contractors, and clients.
  • Adaptable in methods used to complete task.
  • Willing to go the extra mile.
  • Motivated to learn new skills.
  • Follows directions of manager and clarifies responsibilities, if needed.
  • Respects self, co-workers, managers, company, and prospective employees.
  • Shows up on time ready to complete work.
  • Ability to work independently.

Physical Abilities

  • Ability to lift, push, pull and move up to 50 lbs. on a routine basis.
  • Ability to climb Ladders and stairways regularly throughout the work shift.
  • Ability to observe conditions and others as safety attendant staying alert while seated for long periods of time as needed.
  • Ability to use hand tools, power tools, and other tools and equipment in a safe and controlled manner.
  • Ability to perform inspections of site, tools, and equipment.
  • Ability to perform behavioral observations focused on safety and process improvement.
  • Ability to follow safety protocol and to report any incident, unsafe act, or unsafe condition immediately to the site supervisor and safety manager.

Training

  • Must provide proof of successful completion of OSHA 10 hour within 60 days of starting at hth companies.

Benefits:

  • Employer Supplemented Health Insurance.
  • Employer Paid Life Insurance.
  • Voluntary Vision and Dental Insurance.
  • Voluntary Critical Illness and Group Injury Insurance.
  • 401K (Company Match of 3%).
  • Tuition Reimbursement.

hth companies is an equal opportunity employer. hth companies considers applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, creed, age, disability, sex, or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected status.