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Hydroelectric Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rouse Properties

Operations Manager

Watertown, NY

Plan, schedule, direct, coordinate and supervise the activities of the maintenance and operating personnel in the construction, operation, maintenance and repair of hydroelectric facilities to ensure ...

Brookfield Renewable

Operations Manager

Potsdam, NY

Plan, schedule, direct, coordinate and supervise the activities of the maintenance and operating personnel in the construction, operation, maintenance and repair of hydroelectric facilities to ensure ...

Rouse Properties

Operations Manager

Fulton, NY

Plan, schedule, direct, coordinate and supervise the activities of the maintenance and operating personnel in the construction, operation, maintenance and repair of hydroelectric facilities to ensure ...

Brookfield Renewable

Operations Manager

Watertown, NY · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Plan, schedule, direct, coordinate and supervise the activities of the maintenance and operating personnel in the construction, operation, maintenance and repair of hydroelectric facilities to ensure ...

Lewis County PUD

Generation Superintendent- O&M

WA · On-site

$139K - $208K/yr

... hydroelectric generation facilities. Schedules the work assignments of employees/contractors and implements District procurement, contracting, operating and maintenance procedures on all projects and ...

Brookfield Renewable

Operations Manager

Potsdam, NY · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Plan, schedule, direct, coordinate and supervise the activities of the maintenance and operating personnel in the construction, operation, maintenance and repair of hydroelectric facilities to ensure ...

Brookfield Renewable

Operations Manager

Fulton, NY · On-site

$90K - $135K/yr

Plan, schedule, direct, coordinate and supervise the activities of the maintenance and operating personnel in the construction, operation, maintenance and repair of hydroelectric facilities to ensure ...

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Hydroelectric Operator information

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$12

$24

$35

How much do hydroelectric operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydroelectric operator in the United States is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $30.05 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 24/7 operational environments.

How to get hired as a power plant operator?

To become a hydroelectric operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical schooling in power plant operations. Relevant skills include understanding of electrical and mechanical systems, safety procedures, and often obtaining certifications such as a state license or operator certification. Experience with control systems and a strong attention to safety are also important for employment in this field.

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.

What is the highest salary for a plant operator?

Hydroelectric plant operators can earn high salaries, with the top earners making over $100,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand regions. Salaries vary based on location, employer, and level of responsibility, such as overseeing complex equipment and safety protocols.

What does a hydro plant operator do?

A hydroelectric plant operator monitors and controls the equipment that generates electricity from water flow. They perform inspections, adjust machinery, troubleshoot issues, and ensure the plant operates safely and efficiently, often working with control systems and following safety protocols. Certification and technical knowledge of turbines, generators, and control systems are typically required.
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Hydroelectric Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydroelectric Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 10% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 87% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 90% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,869 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Operations Manager

Operations Manager

Brookfield Renewable

Watertown, NY

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Manager, Operations

Work Location: Watertown, NY

Reporting to the Senior Manager, Operations, the incumbent will be responsible for directing and supervising the activities of a group of employees (Hydro Technicians and Station Operators) engaged in the construction, operation, maintenance and repair of hydroelectric facilities and associated equipment to insure safe, efficient, and reliable energy production in a manner consistent with operation and regulatory requirements across multiple facilities.   

Responsibilities

  • Plan, schedule, direct, coordinate and supervise the activities of the maintenance and operating personnel in the construction, operation, maintenance and repair of hydroelectric facilities to ensure continuity of operations;
  • Train subordinates in areas such as best maintenance practices, health, safety, security and environmental compliance and proper power plant and dam operating techniques to educate and improve skill levels;
  • Execute and comply with applicable company policies and procedures with emphasis on safety and environmental requirements and takes appropriate action;
  • Direct personnel in response to plant emergencies, special safety procedures, and operations related activities; 
  • Ensure compliance with applicable Federal, State and Local regulations and Labor agreements;
  • Project management activities for small to medium size maintenance and construction projects which may include contract personnel or contractors;
  • Travel offsite throughout the New York Region;
  • Other duties as assigned by the Sr. Operations Manager.

Requirements

  • Detailed knowledge of safe operating procedures, accident prevention rules, OSHA regulations, company policies, procedures and organization with job related experience; 
  • Knowledge of hydroelectric operations, maintenance, construction and environmental regulations;
  • Working knowledge regarding effective maintenance planning methodologies, preventive and predictive maintenance practices and trouble shooting and failure analysis;
  • Candidate must possess strong verbal and written communication and administrative skills;
  • Proficient in the use or experience with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems;

Qualifications

  • Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree (preferred) in mechanical or electrical engineering or equivalent experience to include strong technical understanding of mechanical and electrical engineering design as it relates to large rotating machinery and hydroelectric generation equipment installation;
  • 5+ years of supervisory experience, preferably including supervision of trades personnel and contractors;
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Products including Outlook, Word and Excel;
  • Hold a valid US Driver’s License.

Pay Range: $100k-140k with specified bonus

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