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Hydro Operator Jobs in Montana (NOW HIRING)

PacifiCorp

Operator B/Senior Hydro Mechanic

Bigfork, MT · On-site

$62.14/hr

Job Information A Senior Hydro Mechanic is a supervising employee under the direction of the Hydro superintendent who: * is a qualified Hydro Mechanic with one year experience at a hydro facility ...

PacifiCorp

Operator B/Senior Hydro Mechanic

Bigfork, MT · On-site

$62.14/hr

Job Information A Senior Hydro Mechanic is a supervising employee under the direction of the Hydro superintendent who: * is a qualified Hydro Mechanic with one year experience at a hydro facility ...

Northwestern Energy

Hydro Plant Foreman

Ennis, MT · On-site

$59.38/hr

The Hydro Foreman leads dispatching and operation activities and personnel, ensuring that all standard operating, compliance and safety procedures are followed, and that optimum hydro generation ...

Northwestern Energy

Hydro Plant Foreman

Ennis, MT · On-site

$111 - $135/hr

Hydro Plant Foreman Work Location Ennis, MT / Madison Dam Pay range Union Rate $59.39 per hour ... Review all operator/maintenance time sheets to ensure accuracy and conformance with the union ...

Northwestern Energy

Hydro Plant Foreman

Ennis, MT · On-site

$59.38/hr

The Hydro Foreman leads dispatching and operation activities and personnel, ensuring that all standard operating, compliance and safety procedures are followed, and that optimum hydro generation ...

NorthWestern Energy

Hydro Plant Foreman

Ennis, MT · On-site

$59.39/hr

The Hydro Foreman leads dispatching and operation activities and personnel, ensuring that all standard operating, compliance and safety procedures are followed, and that optimum hydro generation ...

ADB

Travel Laborer II - Drill Operator

Florence, MT

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

Spy Ego Media LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator II

Havre, MT · On-site

$26/hr

We are currently seeking Heavy Equipment Operators that has good experience with Vibratory Utility ... Operate excavation equipment (backhoe, trencher, hydro-vac, etc.) as needed. * Must be able to ...

Spy Ego Media LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator II

Havre, MT · On-site

$26 - $28/day

We are currently seeking Heavy Equipment Operators that has good experience with Vibratory Utility ... Operate excavation equipment (backhoe, trencher, hydro-vac, etc.) as needed. * Must be able to ...

Spy Ego Media

Heavy Equipment Operator II

Havre, MT · On-site

$26/hr

We are currently seeking Heavy Equipment Operators that has good experience with Vibratory Utility ... Operate excavation equipment (backhoe, trencher, hydro-vac, etc.) as needed. * Must be able to ...

ADB Wireless

Laborer II - Drill Locator

Florence, MT · On-site

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

ADB

Travel Laborer II - Locator

Florence, MT

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

ADB Wireless

QA/QC Specialist

Florence, MT · On-site

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

ADB Wireless

Travel Laborer II - Locator

Florence, MT · On-site

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

ADB

QA/QC Specialist

Florence, MT · On-site

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

ADB

Laborer II - Drill Locator

Florence, MT

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

CleanHarbors

Supervisor IS

Billings, MT · On-site

Trains Technicians and Operators on-the-job in equipment operation, service line processes and necessary paperwork. * Operates all necessary equipment in service line (chemical, hydro-blasting ...

Clean Harbors

Supervisor IS

Billings, MT · On-site

Trains Technicians and Operators on-the-job in equipment operation, service line processes and necessary paperwork. * Operates all necessary equipment in service line (chemical, hydro-blasting ...

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All JobsHydro Operator JobsHydro Operator Jobs in Montana

Hydro Operator information

See Montana salary details

$12

$19

$41

How much do hydro operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro operator in Montana is $19.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $21.20 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 Montana look for?

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

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

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

Hydro Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydro Operator job openings in Montana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,783 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Operator B/Senior Hydro Mechanic

PacifiCorp

Bigfork, MT • On-site

$62.14/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

PacifiCorp rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Information
A Senior Hydro Mechanic is a supervising employee under the direction of the Hydro superintendent who:
  • is a qualified Hydro Mechanic with one year experience at a hydro facility;
  • has completed the Senior Hydro Mechanic check off; within 1 year;
  • works with the employees under their supervision;
  • as assigned, directs the maintenance and construction/upgrades of facilities associated with hydro operations;
  • is responsible for a mechanical maintenance repair shop or area including tools, equipment, supplies and spare parts supplied by the Company;

Responsibilities
  • Prepares reports, equipment recommendations, and maintains records
  • Assists in planning and scheduling.
  • With a minimum of supervision repairs and maintains all types of mechanical equipment in a generating station and associated facilities, including installation and proper alignment, and is also capable of performing precision work with all types of machine tools.
  • Overhaul turbines, generators, governors, pumps, valves, gates, compressors, and related mechanical equipment.
  • Hydro Mechanic skills will include proficiency in all types of welding

Requirements
  • Experience related power plant maintenance.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Effective analytical, problem solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks and projects concurrently.
  • Ability to read and interpret written documents such as drawings, manuals, procedures, safety rules, policies.
  • Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
  • Able to conceptualize and develop creative alternatives to problem resolution
  • Capability of interpreting an extensive variety of technical instructions in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
  • Comprehensive understanding of electric generating plant systems.

Benefits
At PacifiCorp, we understand that living a healthy lifestyle isn't just about your physical health - your mental, financial, and social wellbeing also play an important role. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits designed to help you live a more balanced lifestyle
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401k with match fixed contributions, including a Roth and saving option. For union employees, matching contributions vary by union. For nonunion, PacifiCorp makes a fixed contribution equal to 4% of your eligible pay each year for new hires. In addition, PacifiCorp matches 100% of the first 6% you contribute.
  • Life insurance
  • Additional voluntary benefits, including pet insurance
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Mass Transit Pass for employees in our Portland and Salt Lake City Offices.

Work Life Balance
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) - Time off varies by employee type (Union or Non-Union)
  • Paid short-term disability leave and long-term disability insurance
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Program supporting mental and emotional wellbeing

Additional Information
Req Id: 114291
Company Code: PacifiCorp
Primary Location: Ariel, Washington (Merwin Hydro Dam)
Department: Power Supply
Schedule: Full-Time
Personnel Subarea: IBEW Local 125
Hiring Range: $62.14 per hour
Benefits: Health care, retirement, paid time off, tuition assistance, paid short-term and long-term disability, paid bereavement leave. For more information, please visit: https://careers.pacificorp.com/content/New-Benefits-Page/?locale=en_US
Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without an accommodation.
PacifiCorp is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or religious creed, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status (except as required by law), gender (including gender identity and expression), sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability, medical condition, veteran or military status, familial or parental status, marital status or any other category protected by applicable local, state or U.S. federal law.
Unless otherwise required by law, all offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check and drug screening including for marijuana. While marijuana is legal in several states, including Oregon, a positive test for positions in Oregon may disqualify a candidate. The company complies with the laws of Washington and California and only obtains and considers positive tests for marijuana in safety-sensitive positions or those covered by U.S. Department of Transportation regulations.

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