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Hydro Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hydro Plant Foreman

Ennis, MT ยท On-site

$59.38/hr

Hydro Plant ForemanWork Location: Ennis, MT / Madison DamPay range: Union Rate $59.39 per hourEmployment Status: Regular Full-timeExternal candidates apply at northwesternenergy.comInternal ...

Hydro Plant Foreman

Ennis, MT ยท On-site

$59.39/hr

Hydro Plant Foreman Work Location Ennis, MT / Madison Dam Pay range Union Rate $59.39 per hour Employment Status Regular Full-time About this position The Hydro Foreman leads dispatching and ...

Hydro Plant Foreman

Ennis, MT ยท On-site

$59.38/hr

Hydro Plant Foreman Work Location : Ennis, MT / Madison Dam Pay range : Union Rate $59.39 per hour Employment Status: Regular Full-time External candidates apply at Internal candidates apply through

Hydro Plant Foreman

Ennis, MT ยท On-site

$59.39/hr

Hydro Plant Foreman Work Location : Ennis, MT / Madison Dam Pay range : Union Rate $59.39 per hour Employment Status: Regular Full-time External candidates apply at northwesternenergy.com Internal ...

Hydro Plant Technician

Lake Ozark, MO ยท On-site

$60.69/hr

Control, monitor, start and stop various plant equipment and systems in accordance with plant procedures and requirements. Monitor, start and stop Hydro Units and keep Management informed of any ...

Project Manager - APC Hydro Southern Company Hydro Generation This position will be located at the ... Power plant experience or prior assignments within a power plant is a plus. * Experience with ...

Project Manager - APC Hydro Southern Company Hydro Generation This position will be located at the ... Power plant experience or prior assignments within a power plant is a plus. * Experience with ...

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production ... Journeyman Manufacturing Plant Electrician; General Journeyman Electrician Must have ...

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Hydro Plant information

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$11

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How much do hydro plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro plant in the United States is $18.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hydro plant operator?

Hydro plant operators are professionals responsible for managing and maintaining hydroelectric power plants, which use the energy of flowing water to generate electricity. They monitor equipment, control water flow, and ensure the safe and efficient operation of the plant. Their duties include troubleshooting mechanical and electrical systems, performing routine inspections, and responding to emergencies. Hydro plant operators play a critical role in ensuring a consistent supply of renewable energy while maintaining environmental and safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hydro plant operator?

To thrive as a Hydro Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical certification in power plant operations. Familiarity with SCADA systems, turbine controls, and preventive maintenance tools is essential for daily operations. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and reliable power generation while minimizing downtime and responding effectively to emergencies.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a hydro plant, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals working in hydro plants often encounter challenges such as managing equipment maintenance in high-moisture environments, ensuring safety around powerful machinery and water currents, and responding to unexpected fluctuations in power demand. Addressing these challenges typically involves regular preventive maintenance, adherence to strict safety protocols, and effective communication with both the operations team and external utility partners. Continued training and the use of advanced monitoring systems can also help mitigate risks and improve overall efficiency.

What is the difference between Hydro Plant vs Hydro Plant Operator?

AspectHydro PlantHydro Plant Operator
Primary RoleDesign, develop, and oversee hydroelectric power facilitiesOperate and maintain hydroelectric equipment on a daily basis
Required CredentialsEngineering degree or technical training in power systemsTechnical certifications, training in plant operations
Work EnvironmentDesign sites, construction sites, control roomsControl rooms, plant floors, outdoor facilities
Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, power generation companiesPower plants, utility companies, maintenance firms

While a Hydro Plant involves the planning and development of hydroelectric facilities, a Hydro Plant Operator focuses on the daily operation and maintenance of these facilities. Both roles are essential in the hydroelectric power industry, with the former emphasizing design and construction, and the latter ensuring smooth, continuous plant operation.

More about Hydro Plant jobs

What cities are hiring for Hydro Plant jobs?

Cities with the most Hydro Plant job openings:

What states have the most Hydro Plant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Hydro Plant jobs include:

Infographic showing various Hydro Plant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,460 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Hydro Plant Foreman

Ennis, MT โ€ข On-site

Northwestern Energy
1 - 5K employees

$59.38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Hydro Plant ForemanWork Location: Ennis, MT / Madison DamPay range: Union Rate $59.39 per hourEmployment Status: Regular Full-timeExternal candidates apply at northwesternenergy.comInternal candidates apply through iConnect. About this position: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 performance capabilities are maintained. The Foreman works with multiple stakeholders to balance the needs of the plant within it's operating area. The Foreman plans, organizes, and directs work to be completed. The Foreman receives direction from the Superintendent of remote plants.We offer great benefits: NorthWestern Energy is a fully regulated electric and natural gas utility serving Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. We employ over 1,600 amazing people and serve over 800,000 customers who are our neighbors in our communities. We are a top employer and offer competitive benefits, including: 401K with company match up to 4% and non-elective contribution up to 7%Healthcare and wellbeing programs, including dental and vision for you, your spouse and dependents, Health Savings Account (HSA), healthcare and dependent care flexible spending account (FSA)Employee Assistance Programs (Offering up to six free counseling sessions, per person, per issue, per year for employees, spouses and dependents to include financial heath)Life Insurance (Company pays basic employee policy; spouse, dependent insurance also available)Continuing education reimbursementCompetitive pay (Scheduled performance-based wage increases and annual incentive opportunities.)Paid company endorsed volunteer opportunities Paid parental leavePaid bereavement leavePaid training opportunitiesPaid time off starting on your first day, plus 11 paid holidays Benefits may vary by position or as negotiated as part of a collective bargaining agreement. About this job: Plan, organize, and direct workOrder parts, scan invoices, and complete other computer or paperwork related tasksEnsure completion of work to minimize out of service time of any piece of equipmentPerform all work as requested by SuperintendentWork overtime including evenings and weekends in response to acute service needsTravel away from home area and stay overnight on occasionSupervise personnel to ensure that their performance results in maximum safe and efficient operation of plants consistent with accepted practices, procedures and the Hydro Generation business planCoordinate generating plant maintenance activities to ensure compatibility with plant operating conditionsCoordinate transmission line switching and maintenance activities to maintain customer reliability, and system stability. Report the status of plant equipment and operations, including communication and computer-control systems to the Superintendent on a regular basisReview turn over sheets and log sheet entries to identify problems and ensure that specified plant parameters are maintained by all shiftsReview all operator/maintenance time sheets to ensure accuracy and conformance with the union contract. Summarize all overtime and justify all overtime hours to the Superintendent. Review performance evaluations for all operators, ensuring objectivity and consistencyAdjust operations shift schedules as required, to maintain a balance in crew experience levels. Coordinate with training to maintain an on-going training program to promote flexibility and efficient coverage of shift assignmentsEnsure compliance with all Federal, State and Local Regulations specific to plant location. This includes FERC license requirements and public safety, Montana DEQ, SPCC, etcAssist the Superintendent in the preparation of necessary reports, budgets and schedules, as requiredIt is understood that this list of major duties and responsibilities is not an inclusive list and that other duties and responsibilities, which may include helping others in the same or different department(s), may be assigned by supervisionHave general working knowledge of AC and DC equipmentPerform individual lifts and manipulate equipment weighing up to 70 poundsDrive to other facility locationsOrganize equipment and perform regular and preventative maintenanceOverall working knowledge, understanding and experience with all hydroelectric generating plant system operations. Must be able to communicate and supervise personnel in proper operation procedures. Must be able to organize, schedule, direct and evaluate the work of others and coordinate with all aspects of NorthWestern Energy, marketing and trading and regional system operationsThe ability to maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance is an essential function of this position, consistent with applicable laws and reasonable accommodation requirementsAll NorthWestern Energy employees are required to adhere to company safety standards and the Code of Business Conduct & EthicsEnsure all actions are consistent with NorthWestern Energy's values, mission, and strategic business objectivesAm I right for this job? Here's the success profile: A strong commitment to safety, leadership and accountability.High School diploma or equivalentWorking knowledge of rotating electrical and mechanical equipment and mechanical diagramsMust pass physical test to access all areas of the hydro plants, including climbing ladders, confined and cramped wet slippery quarters and traveling rough terrainDemonstrate and maintain a good safety recordValid driver's license and satisfactory driving recordThe ability to effectively lead and develop employees.Strong conflict resolution, coaching, and communication skills.The ability to build effective working relationships across departments.Proven ability to resolve conflicts, address personnel issues appropriately, and maintain professional working relationships.Minimum of 1 year experience in a Foreman 1 position with consistent performance of meeting expectations in order to promote to a Foreman 2Get Into Energy - Energy Industry Fundamental 2.0 certification is a plus (click the link to certify at no cost)Requisition #5054Posting Dates: September 1, 2026 through September 15, 2026Department/Division: Energy Supply - HydroEmployment Physical: RequiredDrug Test: RequiredBackground Check: RequiredRelocation Benefit: NegotiableTelecommuting: None
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