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Hydro Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Dental insurance Smith Industries LLC is seeking a dependable, safety-focused Hydro Bay Tester to support hydrostatic pressure testing operations in shop and field environments. This hands-on role is ...

Hydro Blaster

Richmond, VA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

The Hydro Blaster must be able to work in compliance on various projects. They must adhere to and maintain strict compliance with corporate/office policies and procedures, established health and ...

Company Description Steeped in a tradition of hydropower, American Hydro is a leading supplier and installer of large equipment for the hydro electric industry, specializing in design, engineering ...

Company Description Steeped in a tradition of hydropower, American Hydro is a leading supplier and installer of large equipment for the hydro electric industry, specializing in design, engineering ...

The Hydro Excavation Vac Foreman will oversee hydro excavation crews in the field and ensure that safe, accurate, and timely work is being performed. The Foreman will be responsible for project ...

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Hydro information

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$9

$24

$52

How much do hydro jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro in the United States is $24.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in hydroelectric power operations?

Professionals in hydroelectric power operations often face challenges such as adapting to fluctuating water levels due to seasonal changes, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, and maintaining aging infrastructure. Effective teamwork is essential, as operators collaborate closely with engineers, maintenance crews, and environmental specialists to monitor equipment and optimize energy output. Additionally, responding quickly to unexpected equipment issues or weather events is a regular part of the job, requiring strong problem-solving skills and resilience.

What is the difference between Hydro vs Hydroelectric Plant Operator?

AspectHydro
CertificationsOften requires certifications in water management, environmental safety, or related fields
Work EnvironmentPrimarily outdoors, working near water bodies, dams, or hydro facilities
Industry UsageUsed broadly in water-related industries, including water treatment, irrigation, and hydroelectric power
Job FocusGeneral water management, environmental monitoring, or water resource planning

Hydro professionals focus on water management, environmental safety, and resource planning across various industries. In contrast, Hydroelectric Plant Operators specifically manage and operate hydroelectric power plants, ensuring electricity generation runs smoothly. While both roles involve water and environmental aspects, Hydro roles are broader, covering multiple water-related sectors, whereas Hydroelectric Plant Operators specialize in power generation facilities.

What does a Hydro do?

A Hydro, often short for Hydrologist or Hydro Technician, is a professional who studies and manages water resources. They analyze how water moves across and through the Earth, assess water quality, and help solve issues related to water availability, pollution, and conservation. Hydros work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, environmental consulting firms, and research institutions. Their work is critical for ensuring safe drinking water, managing flood risks, and supporting sustainable development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hydrologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hydrologist, you need a solid background in environmental science, geology, or civil engineering, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Proficiency with GIS software, hydrological modeling tools, and data analysis systems is commonly required, and certifications like Professional Hydrologist (PH) can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help hydrologists interpret data and convey findings to diverse stakeholders. These skills are vital for accurately assessing water resources, informing environmental policy, and addressing challenges related to water quality and availability.
More about Hydro jobs
What cities are hiring for Hydro jobs? Cities with the most Hydro job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Hydro jobs? The most popular types of Hydro jobs are:
What states have the most Hydro jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydro jobs include:
Infographic showing various Hydro job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,914 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Hydro Operator B

$48.06/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 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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