1

Hydro Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Utility Worker

Umatilla, OR · On-site +1

$47.27/hr

This position is located at McNary Project, operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers and situated ... Performs a variety of utility labor tasks at a hydro-electric power plant in connection with the ...

New

Showing results 41-46

Hydro Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$13

$22

$47

How much do hydro operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Hydro Operator job openings in Oregon as of August 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.

$47.27/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Summary
This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for certain competitive positions to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: This position is located at McNary Project, operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers and situated on the Columbia River, near the town of Umatilla OR. This Project provides hydroelectric generation, navigation, fish passage and recreation.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
  • Performs a variety of utility labor tasks at a hydro-electric power plant in connection with the operation, maintenance, and repair of the power project.
  • Preparatory work such as delivery and assembly at the work site of tools, materials, and supplies.
  • Erecting prefabricated staging or scaffolding, installing bracing or temporary railing.
  • Cleaning surfaces, parts, and disassembling uncomplicated units or parts as directed; placing blocks and jacks under assemblies for removal or for disassembly and repair or transporting.
  • Performs brush and roller painting, minor carpentry, or any other similar work.

Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
  • Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
  • Valid state driver's license required.
  • Pre-employment physical is required
  • Pre-employment drug testing is required
  • Heavy Lifting, up to 45lbs

Qualifications
Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a(n) UTILITY WORKER~ without more than normal supervision. Perform the majority of the duties of a Utility Worker at a large industrial facility supporting journey level crafts workers involving a knowledge of elementary trade practices such as assembling and passing tools, carrying tools and equipment, sorting and rough placement of materials, cleaning, sorting and replacing parts and materials; cleaning and storing tools and equipment with dependability and reliability. Also have the ability to operate light motor vehicles and boats. - Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
PHYSICAL EFFORT: Work requires frequent arm and leg movement to operate equipment; must frequently handle equipment and materials. Frequently lifts and carries equipment and supplies up to, and occasionally over, 45 pounds. Work requires prolonged standing, walking, climbing, bending, stooping, twisting, pulling, pushing and kneeling. Is subject to strains from lifting and pulling heavy objects.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Work is done inside and outside. Inside work is often in dim, damp, cold areas. Outside work frequently requires exposure to hot sun and to bad weather. Discomfort is experienced while wearing protective clothing, shoes, respirators, goggles, gloves, or face masks. There is danger from falls when working at heights, i.e., on scaffolding and ladders; injury from use of power and hand tools, danger of electric shock, and danger of drowning. Is subject to cuts, bruises, and is exposed to noise, dust and fumes. Must wear appropriate safety equipment and protective clothing, and successfully complete and maintain all occupational health requirements.
Education
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
  • Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
  • You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
  • One year trial/probationary period may be required.
  • Direct Deposit of Pay is required.
  • Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees.
  • If you have retired from federal service and you are interested in employment as a reemployed annuitant, see the information in the Reemployed Annuitant information sheet.
  • This is an Installations Career Field.
  • Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
  • Salary includes applicable locality pay or Local Market Supplement.
  • Payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized, based on a determination that a PCS move is not in the Government interest.

Expand Hide additional information
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
Help
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

Army Corps of Engineers logo

About Army Corps of Engineers

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US