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Hydroelectric Power Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Ketchikan

Generation Manager

Ketchikan, AK · On-site

$11K - $16K/mo

This position is primarily responsible for directing KPU's diesel and hydroelectric power generation system, including powerplant and dispatch operations, and implementing all preventative ...

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$13

$24

$46

How much do hydroelectric power jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydroelectric power in the United States is $24.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in hydroelectric power operations?

Professionals in hydroelectric power operations often face challenges related to maintaining equipment reliability, adapting to fluctuating water levels, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Daily tasks may involve monitoring power generation systems, performing routine maintenance, and coordinating with engineers, environmental specialists, and local authorities. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are crucial, as the work environment is typically team-oriented and may require responding quickly to unexpected issues like equipment faults or changes in weather conditions.

How many jobs are created by hydropower?

Hydroelectric power plants create a variety of jobs, including roles for engineers, technicians, operators, and environmental specialists. The industry supports thousands of jobs worldwide, with employment opportunities in construction, maintenance, and management, often requiring technical skills and safety certifications.

How hard is it to become a power plant operator?

Becoming a hydroelectric power plant operator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or an apprenticeship that can last several months to years. Operators often need to obtain certifications or licenses depending on state regulations and must develop skills in equipment operation, safety procedures, and troubleshooting, making it a job that demands technical knowledge and experience.

What is the highest paying job in renewable energy?

In renewable energy, senior roles such as renewable energy project managers, energy directors, and chief engineers tend to have the highest salaries. Hydroelectric power specialists with advanced technical skills and management experience can also earn high compensation, especially in leadership positions overseeing large projects or operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hydroelectric Power Plant Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hydroelectric Power Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or relevant technical certification. Familiarity with SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, turbine controls, and maintenance management software is important. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operation of hydroelectric facilities.

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 size of the facility. They often require technical skills, safety certifications, and knowledge of control systems and machinery to operate and maintain hydroelectric power plants effectively.

What are hydroelectric power jobs?

Hydroelectric power jobs involve working with the generation, operation, maintenance, and management of electricity produced by harnessing the energy of moving water. These roles can include engineers, plant operators, technicians, environmental scientists, and administrative professionals. Employees in this sector help design, construct, monitor, and repair hydroelectric dams and facilities, ensuring safe and efficient power production. Careers in hydroelectric power support renewable energy initiatives and contribute to sustainable electricity generation.

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

AspectHydroelectric PowerHydroelectric Plant Technician
CredentialsEngineering degrees, technical certificationsTechnical certifications, training in electrical/mechanical systems
Work EnvironmentPower plants, control rooms, outdoor dam sitesPower plants, maintenance facilities, outdoor dam sites
Industry UsageDesigning, managing, and optimizing hydroelectric systemsMaintaining and repairing hydroelectric equipment

Hydroelectric Power involves the overall design, management, and optimization of hydroelectric energy systems, often requiring engineering expertise. In contrast, a Hydroelectric Plant Technician focuses on the hands-on maintenance and repair of equipment within hydroelectric facilities. Both roles are essential in the hydroelectric industry but differ in scope and responsibilities.

More about Hydroelectric Power jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Hydroelectric Power jobs? The most popular types of Hydroelectric Power jobs are:
What states have the most Hydroelectric Power jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydroelectric Power jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Hydroelectric Power jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Hydroelectric Power jobs are:
Hydroelectric Power jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydroelectric Power job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Internship, 13% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 74% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 90% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,977 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Senior Mechanical Engineer (Power Generation Facility)

Senior Mechanical Engineer (Power Generation Facility)

Oglethorpe Power Corporation

Rome, GA • On-site

$104K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

As a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will lead the design, operation, and maintenance of mechanical systems at Oglethorpe Power's power generation facilities, which include combustion turbines, combined cycle facilities, and pumped-storage hydroelectric. Your expertise will support critical infrastructure, ensuring reliability and efficiency in energy production and system performance.

You will be responsible for planning overhaul outages, optimizing mechanical systems, and implementing new technologies to enhance plant operations. This role includes predictive and preventive maintenance, oversight of mechanical inspections, and development of capital projects to improve long-term reliability. Additionally, you will provide technical and business support to plant managers, including system design, budgeting analysis, and performance evaluations.

Ideal candidates have extensive experience in power generation systems, strong proficiency in mechanical design of balance of plant systems, gas and steam turbine technology, maintenance of rotating equipment, and the ability to manage contractor relationships.

This position is located at our Rocky Mountain pumped-storage facility near Rome, GA.

Job Duties:

  • Planning minor/major equipment outages.
  • The design, selection and installation of major new equipment and systems.
  • Provide system and equipment technical expertise with Predictive/Preventive Maintenance work orders for plants' computer maintenance management system.
  • Review and monitor annual mechanical inspections at facilities
  • Review of drawings, specifications, design calculations and analysis to generation projects in development or under construction.
  • Provide technical expertise with the development and execution of Capital Projects.
  • Provide oversight of contractors including: engineering firms, construction, and maintenance.

Required Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor's degree in engineering or engineering technology (preferably BSME) - Technical and business knowledge of generating plant operation, performance, and economics

Experience: This position is a Senior Engineer level position. 10+ years minimum engineering and five years minimum preventive and predictive maintenance experience in an operating commercial electric power generating plant is required, including planning, budgeting, preventive and predictive maintenance and maintenance analysis.

Desired Experience:

  • Proven track record in design, analysis, and maintenance of mechanical systems in hydroelectric plants.
  • Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks).
  • Knowledge of hydroelectric systems; penstock, wicket gates, inlet valve, runner, and spiral case.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and regulations related to hydroelectric power.

Licenses, Registrations, and/or Certifications: Professional Engineering (PE) license preferred and valid driver's license that meets the insurance requirements under Oglethorpe Power's Drivers Qualification Program. Level II Vibration Analyst certification desired.

Travel: Depending on project demands 20-30% travel may be required


Job Posted by ApplicantPro