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Hydroelectric Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Otter Tail Power

Site Operator

Fergus Falls, MN · On-site

$86K - $96K/yr

Site Operator Location: Hoot Lake Plant Position Summary Otter Tail Power Company is seeking a ... of hydroelectric generation facilities and the Hoot Lake Plant ash landfill. The successful ...

Otter Tail Corporation

Site Operator

Fergus Falls, MN · On-site

$86K - $96K/yr

Site Operator Location: Hoot Lake Plant Position Summary Otter Tail Power Company is seeking a ... of hydroelectric generation facilities and the Hoot Lake Plant ash landfill. The successful ...

Otter Tail Power Company

Site Operator

Fergus Falls, MN · On-site

$86K - $96K/yr

Site Operator Location: Hoot Lake Plant Position Summary Otter Tail Power Company is seeking a ... of hydroelectric generation facilities and the Hoot Lake Plant ash landfill. The successful ...

FG Products Inc

Rotomolding

Rice Lake, WI · On-site

$24/hr

FG Products, Inc. We're hiring Rotomolding team members NOW due to increased demand. If you're reliable, ready to work, want steady hours and a four-day work week, Apply TODAY and tour the facility.

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Hydroelectric Plant Operator information

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$4.9K

$7.2K

$10K

How much do hydroelectric plant operator jobs pay per month?

As of Aug 4, 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.

How much do hydroelectric plant operators make?

Hydroelectric plant operators typically earn a median annual wage of around $70,000, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and the size of the facility. Entry-level operators may start lower, while experienced operators or those with specialized skills can earn over $90,000 annually.

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 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 hard is it to become a hydroelectric plant operator?

Becoming a hydroelectric plant operator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical schooling. Many operators also obtain certifications or licenses related to electrical or mechanical systems, and the job involves working in a demanding environment with shift work and safety protocols.

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 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.
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Hydroelectric Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydroelectric Plant 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 $86,639 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Hydroelectric Plant Technician (Mongaup Falls)

Eagle Creek Renewable Energy LLC

Port Jervis, NY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

About the role: The Hydro Plant Technician is more than an operator of equipment, they are a steward of reliability, safety, and the communities that depend on the power we generate. This position is responsible for the day to day operation and maintenance of hydroelectric facilities and water conveyance systems to deliver safe, efficient, and dependable energy production. Success demands operational discipline, technical curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to protecting people, the environment, and the long term integrity of our assets for our stakeholders.
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 inspections of plants and dam infrastructure to ensure safe, reliable operations.
  • Operate generating units and auxiliary systems in accordance with established operating procedures.
  • Perform safety and security inspections while maintaining accurate operational logs and reports.
  • Operate heavy equipment, hand tools, and power tools in support of plant maintenance activities.
  • Execute preventive and corrective maintenance to strengthen equipment reliability and long term asset performance.
  • Support 24/7 operations through rotating coverage of weekends, holiday, and off-hour response.
  • Assist in developing safety procedures and Job Safety Analyses (JSA) that protect personnel and operations.
  • Respond rapidly to emergent plant conditions to restore operational stability and minimize risk.
  • Coordinate contractors to ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and to operational standards.
  • Champion a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement across all activities.
What you'll need:
  • Power plant, industrial, utility or military operations experience preferred.
  • Strong commitment to safety, operational discipline, and public stewardship.
  • Electrical and mechanical troubleshooting skills, including reading schematics and diagnosing control circuits.
  • Experience with instrumentation, PLC based control systems, and calibration practices preferred.
  • Ability to communicate operational issue and downtime events clearly and professionally.
  • Working knowledge of industrial maintenance techniques preferred.
  • Valid driver's license required.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Vocational training or education in Engineering or Physical Sciences preferred.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite for operational communication and reporting.
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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