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Hydroelectric Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rouse Properties

Operations Manager

Watertown, NY

... Operators) engaged in the construction, operation, maintenance and repair of hydroelectric ... Direct personnel in response to plant emergencies, special safety procedures, and operations ...

Brookfield Renewable

Operations Manager

Watertown, NY · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

... Operators) engaged in the construction, operation, maintenance and repair of hydroelectric ... Direct personnel in response to plant emergencies, special safety procedures, and operations ...

Brookfield Renewable

Operations Manager

Potsdam, NY · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

... Operators) engaged in the construction, operation, maintenance and repair of hydroelectric ... Direct personnel in response to plant emergencies, special safety procedures, and operations ...

Enscicon Corporation

NCCCO Crane Operator

Rome, GA · On-site

Job OverviewRocky Mountain Dam is seeking a certified Hydroelectric Crane Operator to execute heavy ... Minimum of 3 to 5 years operating heavy cranes, preferably in a power plant, dam, or heavy ...

EquipmentShare

SkillBridge Program

Columbia, MO

$32K - $37K/yr

United State Military Apprentice Program (USMAP) Construction Equipment Mechanic, Diesel Mechanic, Power-Plant Operator, Hydroelectric Machinery Mechanic (Utilities), Industrial Maintenance Mechanic ...

EquipmentShare

SkillBridge Program

Tampa, FL · On-site

$32K - $36K/yr

United State Military Apprentice Program (USMAP) Construction Equipment Mechanic, Diesel Mechanic, Power-Plant Operator, Hydroelectric Machinery Mechanic (Utilities), Industrial Maintenance Mechanic ...

EquipmentShare

SkillBridge Program

Columbia, MO · On-site

$32K - $37K/yr

United State Military Apprentice Program (USMAP) Construction Equipment Mechanic, Diesel Mechanic, Power-Plant Operator, Hydroelectric Machinery Mechanic (Utilities), Industrial Maintenance Mechanic ...

Dominion Energy

Senior Engineer/Staff Engineer

Cayce, SC

$97K - $133K/yr

... areas of FERC hydroelectric dam safety and regulatory compliance. Preferred individual will be ... Provide direction and guidance to plant operators and engineering staff on FERC dam safety ...

Dominion Energy

Senior Engineer/Staff Engineer

Cayce, SC · On-site

$97K - $133K/yr

... areas of FERC hydroelectric dam safety and regulatory compliance. Preferred individual will be ... Provide direction and guidance to plant operators and engineering staff on FERC dam safety ...

Entergy

Team Lead - Plant Assets

Willis, TX · On-site

Entergy's Power Generation group operates a fleet of more than 30 owned, leased, or operated ... hydroelectric and solar facilities. JOB SUMMARY/PURPOSE: The Plant Asset Team Leader reports ...

AP&T

$100K - $140K/yr

Support hydroelectric and diesel plant maintenance programs * Provide operational support across ... operators, and electricians * Prepare SOPs and safety procedures, and review facilities for NESC ...

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All JobsHydroelectric Plant Operator Jobs

Hydroelectric Plant Operator information

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$10K

How much do hydroelectric plant operator jobs pay per month?

As of Aug 9, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% 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.

Operations Manager

Brookfield Renewable

Potsdam, NY

Full-time

Re-posted 1 hour ago

Job description

Manager, Operations

Work Location: Potsdam, 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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