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Hydro Power Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PacifiCorp

Hydro Operator B

Bend, OR · On-site

$48.06/hr

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 ...

PacifiCorp

Hydro Operator B

Bend, OR

$48.06/hr

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 ...

PacifiCorp

Hydro Operator B

Bend, OR · On-site

$48.06/hr

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 ...

Consumers Energy

HYDRO OPERATOR

Newaygo, MI · On-site

Hydro Operators play a critical role in maintaining electrical generation assets, ensuring ... power plant operations, or related industrial environments. * Experience working with electrical ...

New

Fermi LLC

Commissioning Manager - Power

Amarillo, TX · On-site

... thermal, hydro, or renewable energy facilities. - Strong understanding of power plant systems, control systems, and electrical/mechanical equipment. - Excellent leadership, communication, and ...

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All JobsHydro Power Plant Jobs

Hydro Power Plant information

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$26

$39

$54

How much do hydro power plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro power plant in the United States is $39.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.38 and $46.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hydro Power Plant Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hydro Power Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, power generation processes, and safety protocols, typically backed by a technical diploma or relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with SCADA systems, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and industry certifications such as a Power Engineering Certificate is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the plant, minimizing downtime and maintaining energy output.

What is a hydro power plant?

A hydro power plant is a facility that generates electricity by using the energy of flowing or falling water to spin turbines, which then drive generators to produce electrical power. These plants can be built on rivers, dams, or other water sources with sufficient flow or height difference. Hydroelectric power is a renewable, clean source of energy, contributing significantly to global electricity production. It offers the advantages of low operational costs and the ability to quickly adjust output to meet energy demand. However, building hydro power plants can impact local ecosystems and communities near the water source.

What is the difference between Hydro Power Plant vs Hydroelectric Engineer?

AspectHydro Power PlantHydroelectric Engineer
Primary RoleFacility that generates electricity from waterDesigns and develops hydroelectric systems and projects
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, technical certificationsEngineering degree, specialized in hydro systems
Work EnvironmentPower plants, industrial sitesOffice, field sites, project sites
Industry UsagePower generation industryRenewable energy and engineering sectors

While a Hydro Power Plant is a facility that produces electricity from water, a Hydroelectric Engineer is a professional who designs, plans, and oversees the development of hydroelectric projects. Both roles require engineering credentials and work within the renewable energy industry, but one is a physical site, and the other is a technical role involved in project development.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in a hydro power plant, and how can they prepare for them?

Professionals in a hydro power plant often encounter challenges such as maintaining complex mechanical and electrical systems, responding to unexpected equipment failures, and ensuring compliance with strict safety and environmental regulations. Working in shifts, especially during peak demand periods, can also be demanding. To prepare, candidates should develop strong troubleshooting skills, a solid understanding of industry safety standards, and the ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams. Ongoing technical training and staying current with regulatory changes are also key to long-term success in this field.
More about Hydro Power Plant jobs
What cities are hiring for Hydro Power Plant jobs? Cities with the most Hydro Power Plant job openings:
What states have the most Hydro Power Plant jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydro Power Plant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Hydro Power Plant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Hydro Power Plant jobs are:
Hydro Power Plant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydro Power Plant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 5% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,563 per year, or $39.7 per hour.
Hydroelectric Plant Technician (Lyonsdale)

Hydroelectric Plant Technician (Lyonsdale)

Eagle Creek Renewable Energy LLC

Lyons, NY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

About the role: The purpose of the Hydro Plant Technician is to support the overall operation of the hydro-electric power plant and the associated water intakes to maximize the reliability and efficiency of the electrical generating system. Safety being front of mind is paramount to our success, as is a strong commitment to environmental and regulatory compliance.
Why Eagle Creek?
  • A comprehensive benefits plan: Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA, FSA, Commuter benefits, Voluntary Life, 401(k) match.
  • Eleven paid holidays per year, plus a competitive PTO schedule and time off to volunteer or give back to your community.
  • Access to a company-funded Employee Assistance Program.
  • Employee discounts through ADP LifeMart.
  • Tuition Reimbursement as well as access to trainings & mentors for Career Progression and Personal Development.
What you'll do:
  • Conduct daily plant and intake inspections.
  • Start and stop the generating units and auxiliary equipment per established procedures.
  • Conduct safety inspections and monitor security systems, keeping accurate logs and reports.
  • Operate heavy equipment as well as an assortment of hand and power tools including chain saws.
  • Perform routine and preventive maintenance in support of the reliability of the plant.
  • Work on a rotating schedule to cover weekend duty and holidays.
  • Assist in developing plant safety procedures and JSA procedures.
  • Respond to calls at all hours of the day to react to emergent plant issues.
  • Coordinate and supervise contractors in the performance of their activities.
  • Participate in any safety programs developed by the company.
What you'll need:
  • At least two years of related experience in a power plant or industrial setting highly preferred.
  • An unwavering commitment to safety, both for ECRE employees and contractors and the public in general.
  • Instrumentation and control system experience, including troubleshooting of PLC based control systems and general calibration of instrumentation devices preferred.
  • Ability to communicate and report all downtime related events in a timely manner to the regional manager.
  • Experience with basic industrial maintenance techniques preferred.
  • The ability to maintain a valid driver's license.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Vocational certificate or degree in Engineering or Physical Sciences preferred.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Teams, Word, Outlook, etc.) for use in business communication.
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to perform manual tasks including but not limited to:
    • The operation of hand and power tools and the ability to lift at least 50 lbs.
    • Being able to bend and maneuver in tight, cramped quarters.
    • Ability to work in hot, noisy, and dark environments, often alone and isolated.
    • Comfortability working at heights and around water.
    • Ability to work with and wear respiratory protection.
    • Reach with hands and arms above shoulder level and at shoulder level.
    • Walk, stand, stoop, kneel, and bend for prolonged periods of time.
    • Grip and manually manipulate, often in repetitive motion, items such as but not limited to hand tools and machine parts.
    • Read and identify labels, gauges, dials, and indicators typically encountered in performing job duties.
  • Possess clear and effective verbal communication in all circumstances, including emergency situations and giving/receiving instructions over a radio.

Eagle Creek Hydro Operations, LLC is an equal opportunity employer

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