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Hydroelectric Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

$69.15/hr

You will serve as a journey level Power Plant Operator at a hydroelectric facility whose principal assignment is operation of the powerhouse. The powerhouse consists of 27 main generators, 2 station ...

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 ...

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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 Aug 24, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% 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 at Department of Water Resources Contra Costa County, CA

JIT Global Freight Solution P Ltd

California, MO • On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

HYDROELECTRIC PLANT OPERATOR – Department of Water Resources, Contra Costa County, CA.

Job Description and Duties

Under the direction of the Chief Hydroelectric Plant Operator and the guidance of the Senior Hydroelectric Plant Operator, the Hydroelectric Plant Operator is responsible for operation and control of aqueduct facilities and hydroelectric generating and pumping plants associated with State Water Project facilities. The incumbent must have a thorough knowledge of the functional characteristics and locations of main and auxiliary equipment as required.

Special Requirements

Must have a valid Class C California Driver’s License. This is a sensitive position and is subject to substance abuse testing set forth in California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) Regulations 599.960 - 599.966.

Ability to open/close tight valves; operate/move rack in breakers; ascend/descend stairs; open stuck valves; move breakers into cubicles; have the mobility and stamina to climb ladders and stairs and on to large open valves; ability to move a minimum of 50 lbs; open/close tight valves with approximately 50 lbs torque; switch and turn valves in an emergency. Must possess normal or corrected hearing and vision, identify color correctly, and possess a good sense of smell. Be able to enter/exit confined spaces through small openings such as manholes. Must have stamina and ability to sit at a desk and/or computer for extended periods of time; and able to operate computers.

Required to attend the Division’s OP-2 class and be certified as a worker and/or switch person, in compliance with State Water Project regulations. Incumbent will be required to work rotating shifts with varying days off and will be required to work overtime.

All employees are responsible for contributing to an inclusive, safe, and secure work environment that values diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences, and is free from discrimination.

Employee is required to successfully complete all safety training related to the functions of the job.

Under the provisions of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation Critical Infrastructure Protection Standard CIP-004 as part of the Energy Policy of 2005, this position has authorized cyber access to or unescorted physical access around critical cyber assets and is subject to a satisfactory background check prior to appointment and every seven years thereafter.

This position is not eligible for telework.

Desirable Qualifications

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

  • Experience operating turbine-generator units.
  • Experience performing high voltage switching (NFPA 70E or equivalent).
  • Experience monitoring and operating digital process control systems.
  • Experience preparing, placing, and issuing clearances (OSHA 1910, Cal OSHA Title 8, or equivalent).
  • Knowledge of Standing Operating Procedures (SOP).
  • Knowledge of Operating Safety Procedures.
  • Experience with On-Site inspections.
  • Experience providing informal training on procedures for troubleshooting and repairing equipment.
  • Experience with safety meetings, safety audits, pre-work safety plans & Job Hazard/Safety Analysis.
  • Experience preparing program reports.
  • Experience keeping logs of operations and readings.
  • Experience placing requisitions and work orders.
  • Experience making power and water calculations.

The successful candidate should have the ability to work cooperatively and collaboratively with others, maintain consistent and reliable attendance, and have excellent judgment. They should also be able to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing, and work proactively to analyze situations and take effective action to complete projects on time and within budget.

Benefits

To read about the outstanding benefits offered to eligible employees. We offer full medical, dental, and vision benefits, as well as a retirement plan.

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