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Hydroelectric Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Junction City Clean Fuels

Be Seen First

Anaerobic Digester Operator 1

Junction City, OR · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

The Anaerobic Digester Operator plays a central role in the day-to-day operation of our anaerobic digestion (AD) systems. This AD operator position will be responsible for operating the straw ...

US Department of the Army

Rigger

Umatilla, OR · On-site

$69.15/hr

... hydroelectric power generation. Employees working at McNary and living in WA are exempt from OR ... There is danger of cuts, bruises, and burns from equipment operated and falling from ladders and ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Rigger

Umatilla, OR · On-site

$69.15/hr

... hydroelectric power generation. Employees working at McNary and living in WA are exempt from OR ... There is danger of cuts, bruises, and burns from equipment operated and falling from ladders and ...

US Department of the Army

Utility Worker

Umatilla, OR · On-site

$47.27/hr

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 ...

New

Integrity

Construction Manager, Hydro

Portland, OR · On-site

$109K - $126K/yr

... hydroelectric generation projects. This role manages contractor coordination, quality assurance ... an operating hydro facility during retrofit or rehabilitation work • Bureau of Reclamation or ...

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

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 on the Columbia River, near the town of Umatilla OR. This Project provides hydroelectric generation ...

New

Stantec

Senior Fish Passage Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

... Operating Units to support the service needs of our clients - primarily on local and regional ... hydroelectric power plants. * Good technical knowledge in elements of fish passage/transport ...

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Rigger

Umatilla, OR · On-site +1

$69.15/hr

... hydroelectric power generation. Employees working at McNary and living in WA are exempt from OR ... Must possess or be able to obtain and maintain NWD Crane Operator Class II Certification. * A pre ...

All JobsHydroelectric Operator JobsHydroelectric Operator Jobs in Oregon

Hydroelectric Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$12

$25

$37

How much do hydroelectric operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydroelectric operator in Oregon is $25.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.59 and $31.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 additional certifications, technical skills, and overtime work in shift schedules.

What is the difference between Hydroelectric Operator vs Hydropower Plant Technician?

AspectHydroelectric OperatorHydropower Plant Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in plant operationsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in electrical or mechanical systems
Work EnvironmentHydropower plant control rooms, outdoor dam sitesEquipment rooms, control panels, outdoor plant areas
Job FocusMonitoring plant operations, controlling turbines, ensuring safetyMaintaining and repairing equipment, troubleshooting technical issues
Industry UsageCommonly employed in hydroelectric power generation facilitiesFound in hydroelectric plants, focusing on technical maintenance

While both roles are essential in hydroelectric power generation, Hydroelectric Operators primarily oversee daily plant operations and safety, whereas Hydropower Plant Technicians focus on maintaining and repairing equipment. Both roles require technical certifications and work in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ.

How to become a hydroelectric operator?

To become a hydroelectric operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or an apprenticeship in power plant operations. Relevant skills include understanding of electrical and mechanical systems, safety procedures, and often obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training or operator licenses, depending on regional regulations.
What are popular job titles related to Hydroelectric Operator jobs in Oregon? For Hydroelectric Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in Oregon are hiring for Hydroelectric Operator jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Hydroelectric Operator job openings:
Hydroelectric Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydroelectric Operator job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,783 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Seasonal Systems Operator

BREITENBUSH HOT SPRINGS RETREAT AND CONFERENCE CENTER

Detroit, OR • On-site

$15.55/hr

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Breitenbush Hot Springs is seeking a Seasonal Systems Operator to join our existing Systems Team. This team is responsible for the operation and maintenance of all Breitenbush Hot Springs utilities, including the hydroelectric generator, backup diesel generators, domestic water pumping and filtration plant, geothermal heating systems, mineral water systems and pools, and septic systems.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Perform daily checks of all systems and maintain desired operating performance within set specifications and regulatory guidelines
  • Gather and record operating performance data
  • Analyze operating data trends to predict preventative maintenance tasks and diagnose system anomalies
  • Maintain compliance records and submit in a timely manner per regulations
  • Thoroughly document all work in Task Management Software (Clickup)
  • Maintain all system components in good working order
  • Maintain a clean and safe working environment
  • Collect samples for compliance and submit in a timely manner per regulations
  • Work in confined spaces
  • Participate in on call program and respond to after hours emergencies
  • Utilize HMI for systems monitoring and control
  • Evaluate and plan and complete repair projects and assemble parts list with costs, to minimize impact to guests and community
  • Participate in seasonal snow removal as needed
  • Participate in team, department and coop coordination meetings
  • Engage with guests to provide direction and assistance as necessary
  • Live and work collaboratively with teammates, other teams, and fellow community members
  • Proactively seek to solve problems and resolve conflict
  • Ability to work for roughly 8 hours per day, 35-40 hours per week, and on-call as needed.

Required Qualifications:
  • Physical stamina and the ability to stand for long periods of time, walk long distances and work in confined spaces
  • Proficient with one or more of the following: water line construction, general construction and/or operation of a water filtration or sewage utility, installing, replacing, repairing and maintaining water mains, valves, pumps, meters and hydrants. design and installation of electrical systems, wiring and controls.
  • Excellent team participation and collaboration
  • Basic computer skills
  • Excellent service ethic
  • Complex systems troubleshooting and problem solving
  • Valid Oregon driver's license
  • Ability to lift 50lbs
  • Effective communicator
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Must be able to move objects (up to 50lbs) and use abdominal and lower back muscles to provide support without fatigue
  • Regular movement and use of limbs; this position requires good manual dexterity, coordination and stamina for lifting, squatting, reaching and carrying
  • Must be able to work outdoors in varying and inclement weather conditions

Desired Qualifications (a qualified candidate doesn't need to possess each of these skills but must have a basic working knowledge or ability to learn with training):
  • Oregon Drinking Water Systems and Operation Certification; Cross Connection Certification; and/or construction experience.
  • Familiarity with systems automation, monitoring and control (SCADA, HMI, PLC, etc.)
  • Familiarity with off grid/alternative energy power generation and distribution.
  • Heavy equipment operation
  • Familiarity with Google Workspace
  • Valid Oregon CDL
  • Proficiency with task management software (Clickup)

Compensation & Benefits:
  • Starting wage of $15.55/hour ... AND ...
  • Co-op provided housing at hot springs retreat center
  • Wellness leave accruals
  • All utilities (including high speed internet)
  • Guest privileges and discounted events
  • Organic vegetarian meals are provided
  • Discounted massages
  • Household items provided (Dr. Bronner's soap, toilet paper, etc)
  • Community living in the Cascade Mountains
  • Use of hot springs, sauna, yoga, wellness programs and more
  • Commute to work across a footbridge that spans the Breitenbush River

*Benefits are subject to change based on the needs of the Cooperative
Breitenbush Hot Springs is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Breitenbush does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, retaliation, parental status, military service, or association with a protected class

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