1

Hydroelectric Power Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

S. This hands-on field role offers the opportunity to work on a wide variety of job sites, including power plants, hydroelectric dams, and large-scale industrial facilities. You'll focus on systems ...

S. This hands-on field role offers the opportunity to work on a wide variety of job sites, including power plants, hydroelectric dams, and large-scale industrial facilities. You'll focus on systems ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Hydroelectric Power Plant information

See salary details

$26

$39

$54

How much do hydroelectric power plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydroelectric power plant in the United States is $39.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.38 and $46.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a job at a Hydroelectric Power Plant involve?

A job at a hydroelectric power plant typically involves operating, maintaining, and monitoring equipment that generates electricity from flowing water. Responsibilities may include inspecting turbines, generators, and other machinery to ensure proper functioning, troubleshooting issues, and performing routine maintenance. Engineers, technicians, and operators work together to optimize power generation efficiency and comply with environmental and safety regulations. Some positions require specialized training or certifications in electrical or mechanical engineering.

What are the typical daily duties and work environment like for a Hydroelectric Power Plant Operator?

Hydroelectric Power Plant Operators typically monitor equipment, adjust controls, perform routine inspections, and respond to alarms to ensure optimal plant performance. The work environment is often a control room with periodic rounds throughout turbine halls and related facilities, and operators may work in shifts that cover nights, weekends, and holidays. Daily responsibilities also include recording data, troubleshooting issues, coordinating with maintenance teams, and complying with strict safety protocols. Operators frequently collaborate with engineers, maintenance staff, and other operators to ensure a smooth and reliable production of power, making teamwork and clear communication important parts of the job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Hydroelectric Power Plant position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hydroelectric Power Plant Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, knowledge of electrical systems, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification in power plant operations. Familiarity with SCADA systems, turbine controls, and routine safety procedures is crucial for daily operations. Attention to detail, effective teamwork, and sound problem-solving abilities set top performers apart in this field. These skills ensure that plant operations are safe, efficient, and reliable, minimizing downtime and promoting sustainable energy production.

What cities are hiring for Hydroelectric Power Plant jobs? Cities with the most Hydroelectric Power Plant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Hydroelectric Power Plant jobs? The most popular types of Hydroelectric Power Plant jobs are:
What states have the most Hydroelectric Power Plant jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydroelectric Power Plant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Hydroelectric Power Plant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 9% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 88% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,563 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Senior Power Plant Operator (TC-K)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Lowell, OR • On-site

$76.84/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 536 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 50 rated military and defense


Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
Serves as the senior hydro-station operator in direct charge on a shift, responsible for the operation of a hydroelectric power system with eight generating units, including remotely controlled units.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Senior Power Plant Operator (TC-K)without more than normal supervision. The ability to perform common Power Plant Operator tasks. Ability to train journey level Operators, other workers, and power plant trainees. Ability to perform most of the tasks of a Senior Power Plant Operator in a power generating plant of at least 100 megawatt power generating capacity, with occasional supervisory check and guidance. Ability to, without more than normal supervision, assist, or relieve, the Control Room Operator of routine duties including starting and stopping a generator, changing generation, adjusting voltage, performing switching, isolating hazardous energy, selecting proper arc flash PPE, adjusting river flows, and maintaining station records. Ability to work under normal supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure they are properly performed. - Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
PHYSICAL EFFORT: Eye and hand coordination required to operate switches and controls. Job requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking and climbing ladders and stairs. May be required to operate large valves, apply gate locks, lift deck hatches and other jobs requiring up to 75 pounds of pulling or turning force. Lifts and carries equipment and supplies frequently up to and occasionally over 45 pounds. Work requires prolonged standing, walking, climbing, bending, stooping, twisting, pulling, pushing, and kneeling.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Works on a rotating shift, at times alone, inside, in well-lighted, work areas. Works outdoors, at times alone, for short periods with exposure to climate extremes. Occasionally works in proximity to high voltages and currents. Incumbent is often exposed to equipment and machinery noises and outside the control room employee will be subject to the discomfort of wearing safety equipment such as hard-hats, earplugs, and respirators. Must wear appropriate safety equipment and protective clothing and successfully complete and maintain all occupational health requirements, including pulmonary capacity and other routine occupational and pre- employment medical examinations. Incumbent may be the lone operator on shift during nights, weekends and holidays.Education:Employment Type: OTHER

What U.S. Department Of Defense employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom