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Hydroelectric Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Berkshire Hathaway Energy

Plant Operator

Plattsburgh, NY · On-site

$37.12 - $55.67/hr

Responsible for operating and monitoring plant equipment outside of the control room; recording ... We own, operate and develop wind, solar, geothermal, hydroelectric and natural gas projects in 11 U.

Junction City Clean Fuels

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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 ... Perform routine inspections and preventative maintenance on plant equipment, including grinders ...

Hydro North America

Plant Manager - GPM

Monett, MO

... the locations operating budget. * Enforces compliance with administrative policies, procedures ... plant * Recommends budgets and capital requests to management * Resolve employee complaints and ...

Norsk Hydro

Plant Manager - GPM

Monett, MO · On-site

... the locations operating budget. Enforces compliance with administrative policies, procedures ... plant Recommends budgets and capital requests to management Resolve employee complaints and ...

Norsk Hydro

Plant Manager - GPM

Monett, MO · On-site

... locations operating budget. • Enforces compliance with administrative policies, procedures ... of the plant • Recommends budgets and capital requests to management • Resolve employee ...

Pepsi

Pepsi Careers in Saint Amant, LA

Saint Amant, LA · On-site

PepsiCo has openings for production workers, delivery drivers, merchandisers, and sales representatives. Competitive compensation with comprehensive benefits package. Join a global food and beverage ...

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Hydroelectric Plant Operator information

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$4.9K

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How much do hydroelectric plant operator jobs pay per month?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average monthly pay for hydroelectric plant operator in the United States is $7,219.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $5,375.00 and $9,083.33 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a hydroelectric plant operator do?

A hydroelectric plant operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring the equipment that generates electricity from water power. They ensure the plant runs safely and efficiently by adjusting water flow, maintaining machinery, and responding to alarms or malfunctions. Operators also record data, perform routine inspections, and may be involved in minor repairs. Their work is essential for providing reliable renewable energy to homes and businesses.

What does a hydroelectric plant operator do?

A hydroelectric plant operator controls and maintains the equipment that creates electricity in a hydroelectric power plant. Your duties are also to monitor operations and regulate the flow of electricity out of the plant. Inside the plant, operators observe the flow of water through turbines. The moving water turns these turbines to generate electricity. In addition to monitoring operations, controlling the flow of power, and performing scheduled maintenance and equipment tests, you also troubleshoot when equipment malfunctions or other issues arise. In such situations, you diagnose problems, make repairs, and coordinate with other technicians if necessary.

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

To thrive as a Hydroelectric Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, often backed by a high school diploma or technical certification in power plant operations. Familiarity with SCADA systems, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and safety protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators respond quickly to system changes and coordinate with team members. These skills ensure safe, efficient plant operations, minimize downtime, and maintain reliable electricity generation.

What are some common challenges faced by hydroelectric plant operators during routine operations?

Hydroelectric Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to fluctuating water levels, ensuring equipment reliability, and managing unexpected power demand changes. They must regularly monitor complex control systems and perform preventive maintenance to avoid unplanned outages. Effective communication with maintenance teams and engineers is also critical, as operators need to coordinate troubleshooting and repairs to maintain plant efficiency and safety.

What is the difference between Hydroelectric Plant Operator vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectHydroelectric Plant OperatorPower Plant Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in plant operationsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in plant operations
Work EnvironmentHydroelectric dams, water reservoirs, power stationsVarious power plants including fossil fuel, nuclear, renewable
Industry UsagePrimarily in renewable energy sector, water resource managementBroader energy sector, including fossil fuels and nuclear

Both roles require similar certifications and work in power generation environments. Hydroelectric Plant Operators focus on water-based energy sources, while Power Plant Operators work across various energy types. The key difference lies in the specific energy source and related equipment.

How much does a hydroelectric plant operator make?

Hydroelectric plant operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and the size of the facility. They are responsible for monitoring equipment, maintaining safety standards, and ensuring continuous power generation, often working shifts that include nights and weekends.
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Hydroelectric Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydroelectric Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,639 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Hydroelectric Plant Operator

California, MO • On-site

California Department of Water Resources
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about California Department of Water Resourcesexternal

$8.3K - $10K/mo

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

California Conservation Corps rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Final Filing Date: 9/14/2026

Operates pumps, generators and associated auxiliary equipment, aqueduct facilities, reservoirs and turnout from plants, control centers and remote sites either directly or by use of remote-control systems; and monitors or operates digital process control system for optimal individual plant or system wide operation. Performs high and low voltage switching. Incumbent may work alone in plants and Area Control Center and drive into areas away from frequently traveled roadways. Keeps log records of operations and readings; implements power, water, and pumping schedules and makes power and water calculations as required; prepares and places clearances, verifies protection, and issues clearances; is familiar with standing operating orders, Emergency Action Plan, and operating safety procedures in order to take prompt and appropriate action to meet any plant or division operating emergency. Maintains an assigned cleaning station. Carries out specific duties or miscellaneous assignments as directed by the Senior HEP Operator. Perform minor maintenance including, but not limited to, transferring, centrifuging/filtering of lubricating, hydraulic and insulating oil, adjustment of main unit auxiliary devices, installation and removal of stop logs, operating bridge and gantry cranes, revamping, and replacement of low voltage control fuses. May be required to assist Plant Maintenance. Assist in training Apprentices in the manual and remote operations of plants and facilities. Work is on-site to support the State Water Project.

You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement.

Position Details

Job Code #: 529456

Working Title: Hydroelectric Plant Operator

Classification: HYDROELECTRIC PLANT OPERATOR

Salary Range: $8,372.00 - $10,792.00

# of Positions: 2

Work Location: Butte County

Telework: In-Office

Job Type: Permanent, Full Time

Contact Information

Kari Woodruff

(530) 534-2321

karyn.woodruff@water.ca.gov

#J-18808-Ljbffr

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