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Hydro Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

PacifiCorp

Hydro Operator B

Bend, OR · On-site

$48.06/hr

A Hydro Operator B is a qualified operator who is responsible for normally operating one (1) or more hydro plants in their area of responsibility. They shall be knowledgeable of the power plants ...

PacifiCorp

Hydro Operator B

Bend, OR

$48.06/hr

A Hydro Operator B is a qualified operator who is responsible for normally operating one (1) or more hydro plants in their area of responsibility. They shall be knowledgeable of the power plants ...

PacifiCorp

Hydro Operator B

Bend, OR

$48.06/hr

A Hydro Operator B is a qualified operator who is responsible for normally operating one (1) or more hydro plants in their area of responsibility. They shall be knowledgeable of the power plants ...

NWPX Infrastructure

Hydro Bell Operator I

Portland, OR · On-site

$22/hr

HYDRO BELL OPERATOR I - this level of Operator is responsible for preparing pipe products for testing, inspection, Hydro machine and crane operation. Individuals in this position operate, work with ...

Norsk Hydro

HSE Manager

The Dalles, OR · On-site

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... operating conditions, sampling, and regulatory standards as it relates to Title V Air Permitting ...

Norsk Hydro

HSE Manager (22307)

The Dalles, OR

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... operating conditions, sampling, and regulatory standards as it relates to Title V Air Permitting ...

Norsk Hydro

HSE Manager

The Dalles, OR · On-site

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... operating conditions, sampling, and regulatory standards as it relates to Title V Air Permitting ...

Hydro North America

HSE Manager

The Dalles, OR · On-site

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... operating conditions, sampling, and regulatory standards as it relates to Title V Air Permitting ...

builders

Boom/Crane Operator

Beaverton, OR · On-site

Calculates the boom/crane capacities and weights and checks clearances so that buildings, hydro ... Requires Boom or Crane Operator certification. Work Environment / Physical Activity: * Work is ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Sherwood, OR · On-site

$33/hr

Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and ... hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Sherwood, OR · On-site

$33/hr

Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and ... hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge ...

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All JobsHydro Operator JobsHydro Operator Jobs in Oregon

Hydro Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$13

$22

$47

How much do hydro operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro operator in Oregon is $22.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $24.38 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.
More about Hydro Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Hydro Operator jobs in Oregon? For Hydro Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hydro Operator jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Hydro Operator jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Hydro Operator jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Hydro Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Hydro Operator jobs in OR? For Hydro Operator jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Hydro Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydro Operator job openings in Oregon 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 $46,979 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Hydro Operator B

Hydro Operator B

PacifiCorp

Bend, OR • On-site

$48.06/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

PacifiCorp rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

POWER YOUR GREATNESS
PacifiCorp is seeking customer-centric candidates to grow and sustain our commitment to a culture of customer service excellence, environmental sustainability, inclusion & belonging.
Responsibilities
A Hydro Operator B is in charge of a generating plant of total capacity under 100 MW. A Hydro Operator B is a qualified operator who is responsible for normally operating one (1) or more hydro plants in their area of responsibility. They shall be knowledgeable of the power plants, water impoundments, water conduits, and switching in their operating area, as prescribed by the Company. A Hydro Operator B will operate power plants and associated facilities, perform switching orders and tag clearances on equipment. This includes generators, turbines, penstocks, and other associated equipment. A Hydro Operator B will perform all duties assigned that are the normal duties on a hydro project within the classification and qualifications, including substation inspections, station and line switching, routine station check and servicing equipment as required, log maintenance, and for reporting activities to the responsible Hydro Control Operator. The Hydro Operator may perform maintenance on slip rings and commutators and replace brushes, not to exceed ten percent (10%) within a sixty (60) day period, and cleans electrical equipment during annual maintenance after it has been inspected by a Station Wireman.
Upon completion of all required training, the employee will be paid at the Hydro Operator B (fully qualified) rate.
Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Power plant operation and maintenance experience

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
Our benefits include:
  • 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.

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

For more information, please visit: https://careers.pacificorp.com/content/New-Benefits-Page/?locale=en_US
Additional Information
Req Id: 114608
Company Code: PacifiCorp #PM25
Primary Location: Bend, Oregon (100% Onsite)
Department: Power Supply
Schedule: Full-Time
Personnel Subarea: IBEW Local 125
Hiring Range: $48.06 per hour
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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