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Hydro Operator Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

Hydrovac Operator

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

A Hydrovac Operator safely drives and operates specialized high-pressure water and vacuum ... Previous experience in hydro excavation, heavy equipment operation, or vacuum truck operation is ...

Operator

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

As an experienced Equipment Operator , after paid training , you will put your skills to work ... road grater, hydro-excavator, track hoe and more * Load and unload equipment and materials

Operator

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

As an experienced Equipment Operator , after paid training , you will put your skills to work ... road grater, hydro-excavator, track hoe and more * Load and unload equipment and materials

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and ... Badger Infrastructure Solutions is the industry leader in non-destructive hydro-excavation ...

Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and ... About Us Badger Infrastructure Solutions is the industry leader in non-destructive hydro-excavation ...

Badger Infrastructure Solutions is the industry leader in non-destructive hydro-excavation ... Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working environments ...

Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and ... Per Diem About Us Badger Infrastructure Solutions is the industry leader in non-destructive hydro ...

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Showing results 1-20

Hydro Operator information

See Oklahoma salary details

$12

$19

$41

How much do hydro operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro operator in Oklahoma is $19.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $21.30 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 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 popular job titles related to Hydro Operator jobs in OK? For Hydro Operator jobs in OK, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Hydro Operator job openings in Oklahoma as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,027 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Bucket Operator : Oklahoma City, OK

W A Kendall and Company LLC

Oklahoma City, OK

$21/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

The Aerial Lift Trimmer is responsible for trimming, pruning, and removing trees with the aid of a bucket truck or other equipment or tools.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Always follow and help enforce safe practices and rules
  • Operate equipment as directed by Foreperson
  • Help maintain and repair equipment and tools used in operations
  • Assist in preparing truck and materials needed for each day at General Foreperson’s direction
  • Perform professional tree maintenance activities as directed by General Foreperson
  • Clear and trim trees and brush away from utility lines; remove branches and tree material
  • Clean up and dispose of all debris
  • Maintain and keep track of all tools and equipment used in daily operations
  • Constantly observe and practice climbing and tree maintenance skills in a continued effort to improve your own professional skills
  • Be ready and willing to assist other crew members in all aspects of daily activities
  • Safeguard employees and public from hazards in and around the work area by enforcing safe job practices, keeping work area clean and orderly, and staying in frequent voice communication with co-workers
  • Perform duties for storm work as needed

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Aerial Lift Trimmers have no direct reports.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Prior experience in electric utility vegetation management, construction, logging, landscaping, mechanical, or military industries preferred; previous aerial lift experience preferred

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

High School diploma or education equivalent preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Must be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of all knots, ropes and rigging devices used in tree trimming and removal operations.
  • Must be able to identify tree species
  • Must be familiar with electrical hazards and appropriate operating procedures when in proximity to electrical conductors and aerial techniques in the event of an emergency aloft
  • Must be able to work and maneuver at considerable heights under varying and adverse weather conditions
  • Must possess physical strength and agility, good balance, good depth perception and the ability to hear verbal instructions from a distance.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain first-aid certification and CPR
  • Must be able to administer and implement emergency rescue techniques, including tree rescue and all applicable first aid techniques
  • Must be able to quickly remove yourself from a potential danger area
  • Must be able to wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Must be able to travel out of town for storm restoration work when needed

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.